The summer holidays have arrived – and so has Issue 103 of Rockwatch Magazine!
A break from school offers the perfect opportunity to follow your curiosity, explore subjects beyond the curriculum and learn more about our remarkable planet. Published in July 2026, our summer edition is packed with fossils, crystals, rocks, geological mysteries and ideas for your own adventures.
Former Rockstar winner Emma Bowler begins by exploring fossilised wood and the different ways it can be preserved for millions of years. It is an amazing story of how something that once grew as part of a living tree can become a geological treasure.
If sparkling crystals catch your eye, join James Barnet as he investigates the rocks and minerals found around Dunkeld in Scotland. He explains the geological processes that have made this beautiful area so rich in colourful and glittering discoveries.
Could you identify geological finds from around the world? Peter Doyle has filled his garden with an extraordinary collection of rocks and other geological specimens. Try his quiz to see how many you can identify or research – and perhaps find inspiration for starting a collection of your own.
We also meet Mark Kemp, The Yorkshire Fossil Hunter, who believes that he has “the best job in the world”. Through his guided fossil walks, Mark inspires children and adults to explore the coast, make exciting discoveries and catch the fossiling bug.
James Barnet takes us overseas too, visiting the spectacular Ardèche Gorge in France, where a river has carved its way through fossil-rich limestone. If France is a little too far away this summer, why not investigate a gorge nearer home, such as Cheddar Gorge in Somerset?
From natural wonders to famous buildings, Deborah Painter investigates the origins of the stone used to construct the White House and Capitol in Washington DC. George Washington apparently felt that brick was not grand enough – but do you agree with him?
Finally, we look back at two Rockwatch field trips led by Steve Friedrich, where members had the exciting opportunity to see dinosaur tracks at Folkestone. If you missed out, keep watching for more opportunities to join us next year.
Issue 103 is filled with ideas to keep curious young minds busy throughout the holidays. Read it in the garden, take it on your travels or use it as inspiration to begin your own geological investigation.
Open Issue 103 and start exploring our amazing Earth this summer!
