Lower Carboniferous Carbonates, Clinoforms, Kilns and Caves in the Yorkshire Dales
led by Ru Smith and Colin Waters
Join us for a spectacular field excursion to the Lower Carboniferous Malham Formation in the Settle-Stainforth area. Industrial archaeology includes the vast Hoffmann Kiln at Langcliffe and carbonate sedimentologists will revel in the newly recognised giant clinoforms (developed south of the North Craven Fault) at Stainforth Scar, documented in 3D photogrammetric models.
At the top of the scar are some glorious views of the Three Peaks and the limestone pavements of the Winskill Stones Nature Reserve (on a fine day at least!). A remarkable glacial erratic can be seen here on its limestone plinth and we’ll continue on to the fascinating Jubilee and Victoria caves.
Total walking ascent is 222 m (728 feet) and walking distance is estimated at approximately 5 km (3 miles) so a reasonable level of fitness will be required.
Parking is located at the Craven Limeworks site (Grid Ref: SD 824 663), a large, free gravel car park (with electric vehicle charging points if needed) managed by the Yorkshire Dales National Park and situated off the B6479 about 3/4 mile north of Langcliffe village and adjacent to the Settle-Carlisle railway. When level with the paper mill turn right up a lane leading under a railway bridge. Follow the lane to a junction and go right to a signed car park.
Meet at 11am with estimated finish (depending on lengths of geological discussions!) by about 5pm.
Suitable for children. Bring packed lunch. If travelling by train, walk (~44 minutes) along the B6479 (Stainforth Road) from Settle train station to the Limeworks (on the right/East).