Harpur Hill Quarry — Local services in High Peak

Harpur Hill Quarry, located near Buxton in Derbyshire, England, is a disused limestone quarry that has gained a somewhat notorious reputation as the "Blue Lagoon." Despite its picturesque appearance, with vivid turquoise-blue water, the site is far from idyllic. The bright blue color of the water is due to the high alkaline levels, caused by toxic chemicals leaching from the quarry's limestone. This has made the water highly caustic, with a pH level akin to household bleach.

In the past, people have been drawn to the quarry for swimming, mistaking it for a natural beauty spot. However, swimming in the water is extremely dangerous due to its chemical composition, submerged debris, and cold temperatures. The site has been subject to numerous safety warnings and local efforts to dissuade visitors. To deter swimmers, authorities have gone as far as dyeing the water black to reduce its appeal.

For those considering a visit to Harpur Hill Quarry, it’s essential to be aware of the dangers. Exploring the surrounding area can be rewarding, as the Peak District offers beautiful landscapes, but venturing into the quarry itself is ill-advised. There are no facilities, and the area remains hazardous despite attempts to secure it. While the quarry might look inviting, it is important to heed the warnings and respect local efforts to prevent accidents. Visiting the safer walking trails nearby is a much more enjoyable and risk-free way to experience the beauty of Derbyshire’s rugged...

This place is beautiful on a nice sunny day, plus great views. Ideal place for a nice picnic or to hang out with friends. Often is groups of youngsters here, some of which can be fairly loud but who can blame them - great place to chill and enjoy some beers. Only recommendation I would say is to respect locals by not blocking roads/driveways and take your litter home so others can enjoy it too. Also stay safe by being sensible. My partner and I met some lovely locals who were very friendly - one was advising us on some good local walks, which proves they're not all self-righteous people who don't want other people to enjoy the area. They did say the farmer is rude and not very accommodating which probably explains some of these negative reviews on here, presumably some written by them. It's a shame as I've been on other walks in Peak District where local farmers wave, say hello etc. I did try waving to one yesterday and got ignored, which is a shame! I don't understand why the Police dye the water - anyone would think we live in a communist state...ruining the area for everyone. Also they are always claiming they are under resourced yet have time and money to come up and put black dye into the water and fly drones round to catch people enjoying peaceful walks...Anyway defo worth a visit - some nice local pubs to enjoy a pint...

Wanted to see this place for myself and take some unique pictures, knowing fully of it's history, dangers and controversy. Glad to find that it was still accessible and back to it's vibrant blue (not dyed black!) Access is via the walking trail, from the corner of Fiddle Street & Rock bank. The gateway displays an ominous sign reading "Dangerous Quarry, keep out", which is unfairly placed as it should be on the final walk up to the quarry, NOT the gateway to the very undangerous public footpath hiking trail! We visited late in the day with low sun, creating good shadows but perhaps not offering the brightest of blues in the actual flooded quarry pool. The main path into the quarry (past the large, open metal gate) takes you through and straight up alongside the 'blue lagoon'. I knew of the dangers beforehand but for those who don't know, the inviting water of the blue lagoon is actually quite toxic at a pH of 11, equivalent to bathing in bleach (caused by the remains of quarrying the natural rock). It will cause skin and eye irritation and swallowing any would be very bad indeed. Naturally I didnt wish to go close to the shoreline and merely took the photos I came for and respected the site. Sad to see some rubbish strewn about, particularly around the blue lagoon and wish others would show...