Geological Sites | Leeds
| Bradford | Calderdale
| Kirklees | Wakefield
 STATUS:
Local Geological Site
OTHER DESIGNATIONS: SEGI
COUNTY: West Yorkshire
DISTRICT: Bradford
OS GRID REF SE 077 367
OS SHEET 1:50,000 Landranger 104 Leeds and Bradford
OS SHEET: 1:25,000 Outdoor Leisure 21 South Pennines
BGS Geological 1:50,000 Sheet 69 Bradford (Solid and Drift Edition)
FIRST DESIGNATED by West Yorkshire LGS Group in 1996
DATE OF MOST RECENT SURVEY West Yorkshire Geology Trust in February 2009
SCIENTIFIC INFORMATION produced by Neil Aitkenhead
DESIGNATION SHEET UPDATED August 2009
 SITE
DESCRIPTION
This is a fine example of waterfall formation by the differential weathering
of the Upper
Carboniferous Midgley Grit (formerly the Woodhouse Grit) and softer
underlying sandy
shales. The waterfall lies in a beautiful wooded amphitheatre where
the boundary of the
grits and shales is clearly exposed and is accessible. The gritstones
contain interesting
structures, including sets of cross lamination and a sharp erosive
base. Goitstock Wood
is recognised as having ecological importance.
HISTORICAL ASSOCIATIONS:
EDUCATIONAL VALUE:
The site is suitable for small parties of students at all levels, wishing
to study the
relationship between geology and landforms.
AESTHETIC CHARACTERISTICS:
The falls lie in an area of pleasant woodland which has a high
amenity value.
ACCESS AND SAFETY:
Although containing good paths, Goitstock Wood has steep valley
sides, slippery rocks
and deep water beneath the falls which are potentially hazardous.
The site is only suitable
for small, well supervised parties. Suitable footwear is essential.
Park in Cullingworth and walk along the B6144 to the track
leading NE to Hallas Bridge.
Take the footpath along the east side of Harden Beck which
leads to the falls.
Alternatively park near the SE end of Greenside Lane just
before it meets Hallas Lane at
a T junction.
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