Geosite
This geosite was a former limestone quarry working the Wenlock Limestone Formation strata that outcrop here. Long abandoned quarries known locally as ‘the pits’ now contain beautiful clear pools surrounded by mature beech woodland and species rich calcareous grassland and meadows.
This makes it a prime geobotanical asset of the Black Country due to its lime rich soils giving rise to over 300 species of plants species being recorded. There is speculation that the limestones from these quarries was used by the romans during their occupation of Britain in the first to fourth centuries for paving at the main roman road in the area – Watling Street a little to the north of the site, however large scale extraction occurred much later and is associated with the Industrial Revolution.
During that main period of activity, limestone was transported from the pits by pony-pulled rail trucks and local canals to the iron foundries of the Black Country. When quarrying ceased some 150 years ago the Victorians landscaped the old workings and the quarries became flooded to form the pools that occupy the site today.
Geosite facilities
There is no visitor centre, café or toilets at the site, so plan your visit with this in mind.
If you like this, try these too...
Geosite Walsall New Art Gallery has a variety of contemporary exhibitions and Museum shop. Free admission. Costa Café, baby changing facilities and toilets located on the ground floor. There is a range of bars, pubs and restaurants nearby - Walsall New Art Gallery. Walsall Leather Museum have been making some of the world's finest saddles and leather goods for over two hundred years. It celebrates the great achievements of local leather craftsmen and women, and tells the story of the Walsall leather trade. Admission free. School and group visits welcome. Saddle Room Café, Museum shop, baby changing and toilet facilities all available.
Geosite Walsall Arboretum has a visitor centre providing Geopark leaflets and information on visitor attractions, a café selling hot and cold beverages and refreshments, toilet facilities and on street car parking with charges.