Wooded Sandstone Hills

Summary

Overall description:

Elevated wooded ridges (sometimes steeply sloping) with notable areas of mixed woodland and also areas of arable farmland. Underlying geology gives rise to distinctive vegetation and a textured appearance.

Location:

Located in central Bedfordshire.

Physical environment

Landform:

Prominent, often narrow, elevated Greensand ridges some with relatively steep sides.

Natural / water features:

Small steams drain ridges feeding into adjacent river courses. Occasional ponds and water bodies associated with designed landscape, golf courses or former quarries.

Vegetation and land use

Ecological character:

Mixed Deciduous woodland with occasional patches of heath and acidic grassland. There is a high level of protected sites (>1%).

Primary land use :

Commercial forestry, with areas of intensive arable production on gentler slopes.

Tree cover:

Heavily wooded landscape with large blocks of ancient woodland.

Cultural pattern

Historic features:

Historic houses and associated parkland. Relic commons are also a feature of this landscape.

Enclosure pattern:

Semi-regular fields with many sinuous boundaries are the main type associated with enclosure from common fields. Elsewhere, sub-rectangular forms are more common, reflecting late enclosure of common heaths.

Settlement pattern:

Settlement comprises a mix of nucleated villages, hamlets and individual farms. Many villages and historic market towns (eg. Ampthill) have seen extensive growth since WWII and are now fairly large.

There is a varied vernacular building character, comprising red brick, white render and tiled roofs. Black tarred timber barns and distinctive ironstone churches are also a characteristic feature.

Historic development :

This landscape occurs mainly in central Bedfordshire, where fieldscapes are a minor element in an otherwise wooded setting.

Perceptions

Tranquility:

A tranquil and rural landscape despite settled character.

Views:

Wooded horizons and a strong sense of enclosure. Vegetation reflects acidic nature of soil creating a textured landscape. Elevation affords some long distance views where woodland is less prevalent.