Field Trip: The layout and plants of Stourhead are largely explained by the underlying geology
Leader:
Entry Fee
Members: Free
Visitors: £3.00
Date and Time
10:30
Location
Stourton, Warminster BA12 6QF
Field Trip Description
This 18th century National Trust house and landscape garden are of national importance. The landscape was developed around a lake which resulted from the damming of a valley. On the slopes above it were built Greek- and Roman-style temples in a re-creation of classical elegance, along with the continued planting of the family’s collection of trees and shrubs. It represents the culture and education of a Gentleman of the time, who had been inspired by The Grand Tour. The shape of the landscape, the lake, the soil and some of the structures derive from the underlying geology. Though sometimes one may not see the rocks for the trees, the trees themselves can tell stories of their own geological pasts.
The key to the scenery is the Upper Greensand, of Cretaceous age and immediately beneath the Chalk, it formed at a time of rising sea level before the deeper Chalk Sea. It underlies the level plateau in front of the House, where the seams of Chert influence the landscape. And because of their resistance, these seams cause the steep scarp face immediately below the plateau. We will see Chert put to use as a slightly eccentric building stone. The Greensand is underlain by Gault Clay, a more-familiar muddy deposit which floors the valley and makes possible the lake. The Greensand forms a soil which suits Rhododendrons, the sheltered site benefits other trees, as we will see. The walk should finish about 1.00 p.m.
Meet at 10.30 a.m. in front of Stourhead visitor reception, beside the car park - entry will be free to National Trust members. For non-NT members, entry to the whole property is £12.50, garden only is £7.50.
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.
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