9-10 May 2022 - Zechstein carbonates of the north-east of England, led by Cambridge Carbonates Ltd

The field trip is based in the NE of England, around the coastal exposures between Seaham and South Shields, and accessible inland exposures. Tide times will influence the order in which outcrops will be visited. Transportation around the field area will be by minibus, which is included in the field trip cost. A 1.5 day field course discussing the carbonate facies and diagenesis of contrasting sedimentary sequences in the Zechstein of North East England, with comparison to the subsurface.

The Zechstein carbonates and evaporite collapse breccias are well exposed in NE England and demonstrate the formation of sedimentary sequences under the influence of evaporitic drawdown and marine transgression. These sedimentary sequences show contrasting shelf and ramp geometries with differing facies patterns, diagenesis, and pore types. The dissolution of inter-bedded evaporites allows the geometry of carbonate collapse breccias and associated diagenetic effect to be seen in the area.

Where to stay

The field trip will start from Durham at 08:30am on Monday morning, and end in Durham in the early afternoon on Tuesday. There are frequent direct trains from London to Durham, and the trip will end in good time on the Tuesday so that delegates can travel to London for the main conference on the Wednesday. 

Transportation to Durham is not included in the cost, and delegates are asked to make their own way there. We suggest staying at the Durham Travelodge, and this will be the main meeting point on Monday morning: 

What to bring

This field trip will involve outdoor activity in any weather conditions, so you are advised to wear sturdy footwear and comfortable clothing. British springtime weather can be highly variable, so please also bring a waterproof and warm layers in addition to sunscreen.

For further information please contact Jo Garland: jogarland@cambridgecarbonates.co.uk 

Register here for field trip