Ramsholt Cliff facts for kids
| Site of Special Scientific Interest | |
 |
|
| Area of Search | Suffolk |
|---|---|
| Interest | Geological |
| Area | 2.1 hectares |
| Notification | 1987 |
| Location map | Magic Map |
Ramsholt Cliff is a very special place located north-west of Ramsholt in Suffolk, England. It's a protected area because of its unique rocks and fossils. This site helps scientists learn about Earth's past.
Contents
What Makes Ramsholt Cliff Special?
Ramsholt Cliff is officially known as a Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI). This means it's a protected area in the UK. These sites are chosen because they have rare plants, animals, or important geological features. Ramsholt Cliff is special for its geology.
A Look at Ancient Rocks
The cliff is also part of the Geological Conservation Review (GCR). This program identifies and protects the most important geological sites in Great Britain. Ramsholt Cliff is a key spot for understanding the Earth's history. It is also found within the beautiful Suffolk Coast and Heaths Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty.
Discovering the Pliocene Period
One of the most important things about Ramsholt Cliff is its connection to the Pliocene period. This was a time in Earth's history about 5.3 to 2.6 million years ago. A famous geologist named Edward Charlesworth studied this cliff in the 1800s. He realized that the rocks here, called the Coralline Crag Formation, were unique. They helped him define a new part of Earth's timeline.
The Coralline Crag Formation is made of ancient sediments. These sediments contain many well-preserved fossils. Fossils are the remains or traces of plants and animals from millions of years ago. At Ramsholt Cliff, scientists have found several unusual species that tell us about life long ago.
Visiting Ramsholt Cliff
Ramsholt Cliff is located on the bank of the River Deben. Most of the cliff is very steep and hard to reach. However, there is a footpath that runs along the top of the cliff. There is also a track that leads to a small area of the bank. This allows visitors to see some of this amazing natural site.
