The Southern Pennines (Classic Geology in Europe 13)
© Liverpool University Press
The Southern Pennines replaces the many outdated field guides to the region, not only with much needed updates on current geological thinking but also with key information on sites that remain accessible.
The geology discussed focuses heavily on the tectonic development of the Southern Pennines during the Carboniferous, with an account of the region’s complex and important stratigraphy highlighting the many Stage stratotypes that can be found here. The authors note that they are using the latest stratigraphic nomenclature and caveat that “readers of earlier literature must be prepared for some confusion”.
Description of the Carboniferous sedimentology and palaeogeography incorporates a rich array of diagrams, profiles, maps and charts demonstrating the region’s history. A particularly interesting addition is a reflection on the area’s industrial heritage mining for coal and metals, much of which was driven by the local geology.
Most of the book is comprised of field descriptions, with a focus on describing individual localities rather than outlining field trips, although some “geo-walks” in Derbyshire are included. This approach enables the reader to either visit individual sites or develop a field trip based on their own interests. Collinson and Rosen also take account of the needs of those with limited mobility by identifying suitable sites to visit and even enable virtual fieldwork by noting those which can be viewed on Google Earth and Google Street View.
The field localities are clearly described, including grid references and GPS coordinates. The detailed site descriptions are liberally supported by photographs, drawings and diagrams (such as sedimentological logs) and helpful advice on access, including parking and paths. Being familiar with one of the locations, Castleton, it was simple to verify that the descriptions are highly informative.
Overall, this is an excellent guide, providing great background on the complex and fascinating Carboniferous geology of the Southern Pennines, as well as high quality field descriptions invaluable to exploring the area.
Review by Paul Winrow
DETAILS
BY: John Collinson and Brian Roy Rosen (2024) Liverpool University Press. 371pp. (ebook/pbk)
ISBN: 9781780461007
PRICE: £29.99 liverpooluniversitypress.co.uk
