North Downs
The North Downs are a range of chalk hills in southeastern England that run from the London Basin to the White Cliffs of Dover in Kent. This range forms part of the larger geological feature known as the Downs, which also includes the South Downs. Here are some key points about the North Downs:
Geography
Geology
- The North Downs are primarily composed of chalk, formed from the remains of microscopic algae known as coccolithophores, which thrived during the Late Cretaceous period.
- The chalk layer is overlain by a thin veneer of clay-with-flints and loam in some areas, which supports different types of vegetation.
History and Culture
- Historically, the North Downs have been significant for their strategic location. They offered a natural defensive line during various invasions, including the Roman and Norman periods.
- The area has numerous ancient woodlands, and archaeological finds suggest human habitation since the Stone Age.
- During World War II, the Downs were fortified with pillboxes and other defensive structures due to their proximity to the coast and potential invasion routes.
Land Use and Conservation
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