Did you know parts of Britain (including Oxfordshire) were once 60 degrees south of the Equator?
Delve into a wide-ranging beginners' introduction to this intriguing subject. We live on a part of the Earth’s crust that has had an immensely long and eventful history. For its size, Britain probably reveals a greater variety of rock types and ages than anywhere else in the world. Almost everywhere in Britain has at some time been torn by earthquakes, scorched by volcanoes, scraped by ice, covered by seas or raised to high mountains.
We will piece together the evidence for this dramatic story from rocks, minerals and fossils found all over the country, and show how these can be used to reveal a remarkable history of changing ancient environments.
Along the way, you will also learn about the role plate tectonics has played in forming the features of Britain’s scenery and how to recognise some major rock types.
No previous background in geology is needed for the course and no reading is required in advance. You are very welcome to bring your own geological specimens which you would like to be identified or which you think are of special interest.
Please note:
- This event will close to enrolments at 23:59 on 1 October 2025.
- The day event is also being held on Saturday 4 October 2025.