Geographical Landmarks in and near Hertford

River Lee

A river of many roles, the 28-mile Lee Navigation has variously served transport, waste disposal, flood control, mill power and pleasure boating needs. ... more

There are many incredible geographical landmarks to admire in England: ranging from unusual rock formations to mighty rivers. You'll find natural wonders across England's landscape that will simply take your breath away.

England's landscape is as varied as it is beautiful, influenced by the diverse geological make-up of the rock underlying the terrain: chalk in the south produced the rolling hills of the Downs and the Weald, while hard granite in the north and west has formed the rugged mountains of the Lake District. Fast flowing rivers wend their way through England, providing nourishment to its lush farmland, and the coast is characterized by unspoilt beaches and dramatic sea cliffs.

One of England's most famous andmarks is the White Cliffs of Dover, on the south-east coast, opposite the narrowest point of the English Channel. The vast cliffs are spread out east and west from the ancient port of Dover, and have great symbolic significance for England.

Before air travel the crossing from Dover was the main route to and from Europe, and the striking cliffs are still the first sight travellers see when ferrying over from France. The cliffs have featured in literature, music and art, and one of the most famous mentions of the site was the patriotic World War II song "The White Cliffs of Dover", sung by Vera Lynn. The cliff face towers over 100m high, and its impressive appearance is due to a composition of chalk streaked with black flint. You can explore the beautiful clifftop by taking a nature walk, or simply marvel at the breathtaking views across the channel.

Another famous site on the English coast is Lands End, the most westerly tip of mainland England, also featuring magnificent sea cliffs standing some 60m above the waves. The westerly point of Cornwall is renowned for the 'End to End' journey that many have made from John O'Groats in northern Scotland down to Land's End. The amazing views of the sea and Cornish coastline are a major draw of this unique landmark, and there are many unusual rock formations to admire just off the shore, including the famous Enys Dodman arched rock. The cliffs of Land's End are home to seabirds such as gannets, guillemots, razorbills and fulmars, and you can spot some magnificent marine life from the point, including grey seals, basking sharks and dolphins.

The title of the most southerly point of England belongs to the Lizard, a peninsula in Cornwall near Penzance. The point, measuring about 23km across and lengthwise, is famous for its unique serpentine stone, a dark green metamorphic rock veined with red and white. The coastline around the Lizard has also been hazardous for ships through the ages, and there is a historic lighthouse on its tip. As you stroll on the spectacular cliff-tops of the Lizard, you may be able to spot the Cornish Chough, as the peninsula is one the few places the rare bird breeds in England.

England's varied geology has given rise to some amazing sights, from towering mountains and deeply cut valleys, to strange-looking rock formations and labyrinthine cave systems.

One of the most admired geographical marvels of England is Cheddar Gorge, a massive limestone gorge cut into the southern slopes of the Mendip Hills above the historic village of Cheddar in Somerset. The ravine stretches up to 150m in places, and boasts the highest inland cliffs in England. Walks along the cliffs and the riverside allow you to gaze at the natural wonder from different perspectives, and you should bring your binoculars to try and spot the Peregrine Falcons and other rare birds and animals that live in the gorge. The lower end of the gorge is where the amazing Showcaves are hidden in the rock, admired for their beautiful stalactite and stalagmite formations, and the significant fossils of prehistoric man that have been found here.

A really fascinating geological site is Brimham Rocks, in North Yorkshire not far from Leeds, which features dramatic rock formations in the Nidderdale Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. The rocks are a series of strangely shaped Millstone Grit outcrops, which were sculpted into their unusual forms by erosion in the last Ice Age. The rocks are set in unspoilt moorland, with beautiful views over the Yorkshire countryside, and you'll be spellbound by the weird and wonderful formations, including rocks that have been given appropriate names like the Boat, the Dancing Bear, the Turtle, and even the Smartie Tube.

The most famous river in England is undoubtedly the Thames, and it is one of the country's longest too, at an impressive 65km (The longest river is actually the Severn). The source of the Thames is in Cirencester near Bourton-on-the-Water, and it crosses six counties to end up in the North Sea.The Thames is London's most important landmark, and has defined the city for centuries. Some of the most important events in British history have taken place on and near the river. A trip down the Thames is an excellent way to gain insight into London's past and see many of the city's best attractions, including the magnificent bridges, historic and modern, that cross the mighty river.

The sea surrounding England is dotted with several islands, some of them inhabited and others providing a sanctuary for birds and wildlife. One of the most famous and spectacular islands is the Isle of Wight, which boasts almost 100km of gorgeous coastline, featuring secluded coves and pristine golden beaches perfect for swimming. The countryside of the Isle of Wight is also stunning, with several Areas of Natural Beauty providing many opportunities for outdoor pursuits like walking and cycling. The island also has some amazing wildlife, and is one of the richest fossil locations for dinosaur remains in Europe. The most important town on the island is Newport.

England's geographical landmarks are some of the most unique and beautiful natural places in the world, and your English holiday would be incomplete without taking in these natural landmarks.