Places to visit

Verwood

Verwood, originally ‘Fayrewood’, was first mentioned in 1329. The land, cleared in the Middle Ages for agriculture, was found to contain clay and, consequently, a pottery industry developed. There were at one time over 30 kilns but today little remains of this thriving village industry. The last commercial pottery ceased production in 1952 and today only 3 sites remain. One of these, the pottery at Prairie Farm was in use from the 18th Century until 1940, the original kiln, drying shed and potter’s house have recently been designated as an historical monument. Verwood pottery had a distinctive style, was used by ordinary working people and widely available across southern England.

For a greater insight into Verwood`s pottery industry pay a visit to the Verwood Heathland Heritage Centre in the former drying shed of the Crossroads Pottery.

Verwood today is an expanding residential area, popular for its location on the fringes of the New Forest and within easy reach of Bournemouth, Wimborne and Poole.