Unique
Limestone Landscapes follows the outcrop of the underlying Magnesian Limestone. It is the interaction between this rock, the people here and the natural world that has shaped the landscape of the area in a unique and particular way.
The underlying rocks have provided many generations with building materials, coal to sell and export, and lime to sweeten the land for agriculture. It also contains many fascinating geological features of national and international importance.
The unique conditions of the Magnesian Limestone support rich and unusual collections of plant and animals. The area holds two thirds of the UK’s Magnesian Limestone Grassland which is important on an international scale.
It has supported communities and industry over several millennia. In turn, these communities have shaped much of what is present in the landscape today. The amount and variety of evidence of occupation and activity provides an intriguing and highly visible record of the area’s social and economic history.
