The varied geology of the South West is outstanding with superb coastal features, rich mineral deposits and internationally important fossils. This includes coastline dominated by long, scenic stretches of cliffs cut into sedimentary, igneous and metamorphic rocks - many of which support diverse plant communities. Dune systems, backing beaches, and shingle bars also support a unique array of rare and uncommon plants. On the land, highlights include the Mendip Hills which is the most southerly limestone upland in Britain with spectacular gorges, screes, valleys & caves, rich mineral ores which became the heart of the Cornish tin and copper mining industry, the distinctive granite tors of Dartmoor and Bodmin Moor and the World Heritage Jurassic coastline on the Devon/Dorset coast with its outstanding geological record of earth history through the Triassic, Jurassic and Cretaceous periods.
Best Examples in South West England
