Blackmoor Nature Reserve

Blackmoor Nature Reserve is part of the wider Cheddar Complex Sites of Special Scientific Interest which is a network of nature reserves on the Mendip Hills. Each
reserve has its own unique character and wildlife. All of the nature reserves are Sites of Special Scientific Interest which provide protection to the plants and animals found there.

The industrial history of the site is part of what makes it so special. Blackmoor was mined for lead as far back as Roman times, with more recent mining by the Victorians leaving the buddle pits (circular washing pits to separate lead ore), dams and settling beds that can still be seen today. The whole of the reserve is scheduled as an Ancient Monument to protect the Victorian lead workings.

The high concentration of lead in the soil prevents most plants from growing, so the flora of the site is unusual, with only specially-adapted plants able to survive. A significant area of reserve is part of the Charterhouse lead works Scheduled Ancient Monument.

Please clean up after your dog as to not damage the rare habitats at this special nature reserve.

Blackmoor Nature Reserve is one of many in the Mendips. A thriving habitat for plants and wildlife, it's also a Site of Special Scientific Interest. Not only that, the area has been extensively mined in the past and was a lead workings during the Victorian era. To protect historic remnants, the reserve is also a Scheduled Ancient Monument.

Lovely open area of nature reserve, great for exploring