Field Trip: Geology on a Bicycle - Rocks of the Bristol to Bath Railway Path
Leader:
Entry Fee
Members: Free
Visitors: £3.00
Date and Time
10:30
Location
Bitton Station, Bath Rd, Bitton, Bristol, BS30 6HD
Field Trip Description
Formerly the LMS Railway and now part of the National Cycle Network, the Bristol to Bath Railway Path provides a valuable geological resource and a means of exploring the fascinating prehistory of our area. All you need for this excursion is a bicycle (and a little effort) to enjoy a full day of geology and natural history in the Avon Valley. A number of outstanding rock outcrops of Carboniferous, Triassic and Jurassic age will be visited including two sites where clearance work has been undertaken and geological information boards installed. The use of local stone for the construction of the railway will also be discussed. The path is an important wildlife corridor linking country and city areas of Bristol and Bath. It crosses the River Avon in several places and provides outstanding views across the Avon Valley.
General details: Leisurely bicycle ride covering a return distance of approximately 10 miles on a tarmac path. Ideal for all ages. Bring waterproofs, just in case it rains. No hammers required. Lunch/refreshments at the Bird in Hand Public House (next to the Railway path at Saltford). Hot and cold meals (or bring your own sandwiches), cycle parking and garden available here.
Meet at Grid Ref. 670708 Bitton Railway Station car park at 10.30am. (finishing about 4.00pm.). The station is situated on the Railway path for those arriving by bicycle from Bath or Bristol.
Requirements: Don’t forget your Bicycle (or Unicycle!). Please check that your bicycle is safe and roadworthy before joining the excursion. The Railway Path is traffic-free. Cars can be left at Bitton Station.
Important Notice: Bath Geological Society Insurance
Each person attending a field meeting does so on the understanding that he/she attends at his/her own risk. The Bath Geological Society has Public Liability Insurance Cover for field and indoor meetings, but Personal Accident Cover and Personal Liability Cover remain the responsibility and personal choice of the participant.
There may be an element of appropriate cover included in house insurance or in travel insurance: although Bath Geological Society activities are not particularly dangerous members are advised to check whether exclusions apply to activities in which they plan to participate in case they wish to arrange further cover. An annual travel insurance may be the best solution for any member who regularly attends field events: this again is a matter of choice.
Please note however that all members participating in overseas events will be required to have travel insurance for the duration of the event: this is so that participants are covered for Medical, Repatriation and Personal Liability expenses. The Personal Accident element remains the personal choice of the member and again members are advised to check exclusions so that they can make an informed decision about the cover they want.