Redstone Rock
Geological overview
Just south of Stourport a magnificent river cliff of fine grained red sandstone is seen. Although mainly homogenous in terms of geology, there are white streaks and thin bands of coarse material running throughout the section.
The soft sandstone of Redstone Rock is easily carved and there is evidence of human-made habitation in the cliff face since Stone Age times. The caves that can be seen today were mostly made in the 12th century, when a hermitage was established there, conveniently located for the hermits to be on hand to offer blessings and prayers for passers-by in return for alms. It was said to house up to 500 men, who may have also manned the ferry crossing, which was there due to the presence of a ford until the river was dredged. The caves were later used as domestic dwellings and were inhabited almost continuously until the mid twentieth century.
Location
Stourport-on-Severn, Worcestershire; Grid Reference: SO 8143 6998
Access
Open along a public right of way
Geological Age
Triassic – Wildmoor Sandstone Formation
Rock Types
Sedimentary – sandstone, siltstone
Features
Sedimentary structures
Social history
Interpretation
Section 5 of the Geopark Way trail
