Lesnes Abbey Woods, Nature reserve and fossil site in London Borough of Bexley, England.
Lesnes Abbey Woods is a wooded area of about 73 hectares near Bexley with ancient trees and a network of walking trails throughout its natural landscape. The site is known for its limestone layers that contain fossils of marine organisms from millions of years ago.
The geological formations were created during the Palaeocene and early Eocene epochs, between 50 and 60 million years ago. These ancient layers were formed by shifting seas that once covered this region.
The place draws school groups and researchers who dig for fossils and study ancient marine creatures firsthand. This hands-on learning setting attracts people interested in natural history and paleontology.
Visitors can collect up to 2 kilograms of fossil material from designated areas while maintaining a digging depth of about 2 feet (60 centimeters). It is best to wear sturdy footwear, bring digging tools, and visit during dry weather.
The site contains fossils from 22 mammal species across 12 different orders, offering a rare window into prehistoric animal diversity. Most notably, one of only two known Palaeocene bird specimens from Britain was discovered here.
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