Trowbarrow Quarry facts for kids
Trowbarrow Quarry is a really cool place near Silverdale in Lancashire, England. It used to be a busy place where people dug out a type of rock called limestone. But now, it's a quiet and special spot!
This old quarry is now a protected area. It's known as a Site of Special Scientific Interest because of its unique geology. It's also a Local Nature Reserve, which means it's a safe home for many plants and animals. Plus, it's super popular for rock climbing!
Contents
History of Trowbarrow Quarry
Trowbarrow Quarry was once a very important place for getting limestone. Limestone is a rock used in many ways, like building houses, making cement, and even helping farms.
When the Quarry Opened
The quarry started working around 1857. This was a big year because the Furness Line railway opened nearby. The railway made it easy to move the heavy limestone from the quarry to other towns and cities. Before the railway, moving so much rock would have been very hard!
Making Tarmacadam
Something special happened at Trowbarrow Quarry. A new way to make Tarmacadam was invented here. Tarmacadam is the black, sticky material we use to build roads. Workers mixed crushed limestone from the quarry with hot tar. The tar came from a gasworks in a nearby town called Carnforth. This new method helped build many roads!
The Quarry Closes
The quarry was busy for many years. It usually had about 20 to 30 people working there. But in 1959, the quarry finally closed down. It had produced a lot of limestone for over 100 years!
Trowbarrow Quarry Today
Even though the quarry is no longer digging up limestone, it's still a very important place. It's now managed as part of the Arnside and Silverdale Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty.
What is an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty?
An Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, or AONB, is a special part of the countryside. It's protected because of its amazing landscape and natural beauty. These areas are great for exploring and enjoying nature. Trowbarrow Quarry helps make the Arnside and Silverdale AONB even more special.
A Haven for Nature
Since the quarry closed, nature has slowly taken over. The old quarry walls and rocky areas have become home to many different plants and animals. It's a fantastic place to see local wildlife. That's why it's also a Local Nature Reserve.
Rock Climbing Adventures
For people who love adventure, Trowbarrow Quarry is a famous spot for rock climbing. The tall, strong limestone walls that were once dug out by workers are now perfect for climbers. It's a great place to challenge yourself and enjoy the outdoors.
