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1:250 000 Geological Map

This range of geological maps show the general geology of the area, they come in either folded (for taking on the field), or flat (for wall mounting)
Buy from UKGE

1: 50 000 Geological Map

This range of geological maps show the localised geology, they come in either folded (for taking on the field), or flat (for wall mounting)
Buy from UKGE


 

Geological Guide to Kimmeridge Bay

 

Kimmeridge Bay - Kimmeridge Clay
Brachiopod from the Kimmeridge Clay

 

In spite of the difficulty in getting to Kimmeridge, it is a most fantastic place for geology, and the views are fantastic. It is also one of the most peaceful and quiet places alone the Dorset Coast. The Hill View at Chapmans Pool, though a VERY Steep climb, follows some breathtaking views. From Kimmeridge Bay, the immediate shale beds are first seen, this is Hen Cliff. From here walking East you will eventually reach Yellow Ledges, (marked by the yellow stone band) then Burning beach (often built up of shingle). This will take you to Fresh Water Steps. Clavells Hard follows with Rope Lake Head some distance away. Finally Chapmans Pool can be reached.

Over 243m of Kimmeridge Clay is exposed at the bay. The Famous Oil Shale, can be seen and is often marked by black areas in the sea. The first part of Kimmeridge bay is mostly unfossiliferous.

At clavells hard, a small waterfall descends over the Kimmeridge oil shale. You may notice a pinky colour, this is the result of a fire which burned for many years, set alight by school boys and is one of the most famous features of Kimmeridge.

 

Kimmeridgian
150 to 154 MYA
Boulder Beds

Lothbeg
Crakaig
Helmsdale
Portgower

Allt na Cuile Sandstone Lothbeg
Kintradwell Beds Lothbeg
Crakaig
Kintradwell
Three Kings Reef Balintore
Eathie Shore Eathie
Kimmeridge Clay

Reighton
Wyke Regis
Ringstead
Kimmeridge Bay
West Weare
Chapmans Pool
Bowleaze Cove


Jurassic

GEOGRAPHY AND CLIMATE: Gondwanaland continues to break up, Graywacke, shale and siliceous sediments formed. Continued mountain building. mild, moist climates over most of the land.

TERRESTRIAL ANIMAL LIFE: Reptiles dominant with Crocodiles, turtles, lizards and dinosaurs. Pterosaurs and Archaeopteryx take to the air. Mammals begin to diversify. More advanced insects such as flies.

PLANT LIFE: Cycads, ginkos, conifers, ferns and tree ferns.

SEA LIFE: All major invertebrate groups well represented, ammonites and bivalves successful. Marine reptiles, Ichthyosaurs are Plesiosaurs.



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