Permissive paths are open at all times but the eco-classroom is only open when events are planned but it can be booked in advance. See Harehope Quarry Website.

Harehope Quarry has an annual Community Events Programme on their website.

The Quarry

Harehope Quarry has a rich history as a working limestone quarry but since it closed wildlife has returned and the rocks are now enjoyed by a new group of people. The Harehope Quarrry Project has worked to restore areas of the quarry giving it a new function and providing facilities for visitors.

Nature Reserve and Geology Garden

The western end of the quarry, the area to the south of the Bollihope Burn and the Tip End, make up the nature reserve.

Wildlife is being encouraged in the nature reserve through a programme of tree planting and alder management, the building of an otter holt, the introduction of a bird feeding station and the introduction of a grazing regime for the limestone grassland.

Permissive footpaths have been created to the eastern and western ends of the reserve providing access to the bird hide, geology garden and exposures of Frosterley Marble at Wise Eel Bridge.

The nature reserve also includes the geology garden. The geology garden encompasses a safe area to play in front of the eco-classroom for visiting groups and is made from local stone, the 'Footpath Through Time' sticker trail and interpretation of the rocks to be found in the quarry.