Date/Time
Date(s) - Saturday, 27 June 2026
08:45 - 12:30
Location
Daglingworth Quarry
Categories
Date: Saturday 27th June 2026
Time: 8.45am for a 9.00am start – approximately 12.30pm finish
Location: Daglingworth Quarry, near Cirencester, Gloucestershire
Leader: Alex Ayling
Suitable for: Ages 7+
Cost: £2.50 per person (Rockwatch members only)
Maximum Places: 30
Join Rockwatch for a fascinating morning exploring the geology and fossils of Daglingworth Quarry, one of Gloucestershire’s most important Jurassic limestone quarries.
Led by geologist and former Rockwatcher Alex Ayling, this special visit will take Rockwatchers through around 30 metres of Middle Jurassic limestone belonging to the Great Oolite Group. The quarry is famous for producing the distinctive local building stone known as “Dagstone” and provides a unique opportunity to see how geology, industry and palaeontology come together.
As we explore the different quarry levels, we’ll discover how the rocks change through time and learn how geologists interpret ancient environments from the clues preserved within them. Keep an eye out for fascinating trace fossils left behind by ancient burrowing creatures, as well as marine fossils including sea urchins, brachiopods and bivalves.
Daglingworth is also well known among palaeontologists. Dinosaur remains linked to Megalosaurus and Cetiosaurus have been discovered here, while excavations have also revealed fish, shark and crocodile teeth from the Jurassic seas that once covered this part of Gloucestershire.
The morning will include:
- Safety briefing and introduction to the quarry
- Guided tour of the quarry workings
- Exploration of different rock layers and stratigraphy
- Fossil spotting and geological interpretation
- Learning about quarrying and local geoconservation
Important Information
This is a working quarry and participants must wear:
- Hard hat
- Hi-vis vest or jacket
- Sturdy boots (steel toe-capped preferred)
Please also:
- Dress for rough, uneven ground
- Wear long trousers (shorts are not recommended)
- Bring waterproofs and warm layers if needed
- Bring sun cream, a sun hat and sunglasses for bright conditions
Toilets are available at the site office.
Places are limited and advance booking is essential.
Bookings
Children must be accompanied by an adult so please buy tickets for children and accompanying adult/s.Log in if you already have an account with us.