Size: 80 hectares 

Ownership: Imerys Minerals

Designation: SSSI, SPA, SAC, Ramsar

Restrictions: Open Access Land, please keep dogs on a lead and keep to main paths. Horse riding and cycling is only permitted on statutory
bridleways. No camping or fires. Active quarries adjacent to nature reserve.

Access: Grange Road
BH20 5DG

Grid ref: SY 91806 83915

An excellent large piece of heath located in a stunning surrounding over looked
by the Purbeck Ridge. A great place to visit to find some truly rare heathland
species.

The Reserve

Creech heath is located in stunning surroundings of the Isle of Purbeck.

The heath consists of a mixture of habitats including dry and wet heath, acid bog, mixed
deciduous/coniferous woodland and willow carr. Many large ponds are also dotted
around the site, with this variation of habitats the biodiversity of the reserve is unparalleled.

The substrate of Creech mostly consists of clay, and use of the area for clay extraction dates back to the Bronze Age. It was the introduction of tobacco in the 16th century that began the clay trade as we know it today. In 1578 Thomas Brown
purchased land at east Creech for the extraction of clay for the making of clay pipes
for tobacco consumption. In 1792 Josiah Wedgewood concluded that Purbeck Blue
Clay was the best in the world. He used it to create his world famous Queens Ware.

What you can see:

The extensive use of this site over the years has resulted in a varied topography, which coupled with the clay substrate has allowed the formation of many ponds, ditches and slopes which provide wonderful habitat for many species.

Home to all six native reptile species and five out of the seven native amphibian species including the great crested newt. Creech is also home to a multitude of rare and endangered invertebrates including the rare Southern Damselfly. The reserve remains a stronghold for the Dartford warbler, Woodlark, Nightjar and Hobby; all European Protected Species.