# xTbl_FG_JM_KeyChars

FG KeyChar:
•	Winding, sunken lanes are an historic landscape feature, as are henges, long and round barrows and traces of ancient field systems.
•	The Forest of Eversley and Bracknell Forest reflect historic use of the land as medieval hunting forests.
•	Fragmented blocks of largely neglected remnant heathland are found on large commons or as Ministry of Defence training areas.
•	This was an important occupation area from Mesolithic to modern times based on exploitation of the rivers - with numerous Prehistoric, Roman and medieval settlements survive.
•	Small farms, cottages and straggling roadside settlements are common, but park estates and country houses are also present.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	Winding, sunken lanes are an historic landscape feature, as are henges, long and round barrows and traces of ancient field systems.
•	The Forest of Eversley and Bracknell Forest reflect historic use of the land as medieval hunting forests.
•	Fragmented blocks of largely neglected remnant heathland are found on large commons or as Ministry of Defence training areas.
•	This was an important occupation area from Mesolithic to modern times based on exploitation of the rivers - with numerous Prehistoric, Roman and medieval settlements survive.
•	Small farms, cottages and straggling roadside settlements are common, but park estates and country houses are also present.


FG KeyChar:
•	A subtle mosaic of grassland, bogs, ponds and fringes of scrub is found between the woodlands.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	A subtle mosaic of grassland, bogs, ponds and fringes of scrub is found between the woodlands.


FG KeyChar:
•	Barracks, army housing, camps and military signs and notices give the landscape an inescapable military tone.
•	Small farms, cottages and straggling roadside settlements are common, but park estates and country houses are also present.
•	Intensive residential development over the past 50 years has led to large towns such as Ascot, Camberley, Farnborough and Woking, linked by major transport routes (the M3, M4, M25, and A34).

Edited_KeyChars:
•	Barracks, army housing, camps and military signs and notices give the landscape an inescapable military tone.
•	Small farms, cottages and straggling roadside settlements are common, but park estates and country houses are also present.
•	Intensive residential development over the past 50 years has led to large towns such as Ascot, Camberley, Farnborough and Woking, linked by major transport routes (the M3, M4, M25, and A34).


FG KeyChar:
•	Landform is dominated by flat to gently sloping plateaux incised by broad river valleys.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	Landform is dominated by flat to gently sloping plateaux incised by broad river valleys.


FG KeyChar:
•	Trees are a significant feature in the form of wooded gardens, belts of woodland along roadsides and substantial areas of woodland (mixed wood with beech and birch) and forestry (coniferous plantations).
•	Pockets of ancient semi-natural woods and wood-pasture.
•	The area has a heathy character due to the dominance of oak/birch/bracken/pine.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	Trees are a significant feature in the form of wooded gardens, belts of woodland along roadsides and substantial areas of woodland (mixed wood with beech and birch) and forestry (coniferous plantations).
•	Pockets of ancient semi-natural woods and wood-pasture.
•	The area has a heathy character due to the dominance of oak/birch/bracken/pine.


FG KeyChar:
•	Intensive arable production dominates, with a small proportion of grazing land.

Edited_KeyChars:
Mainly intensive arable production
Small proportion of grazing land
Unimproved water meadows and remnant traditional watercress beds in Test and Itchen valleys


FG KeyChar:
•	Traditional buildings are generally of brick, chalk cob or brick with flints with thatch common in the river valleys.  Timber frame barns are a common feature.

Edited_KeyChars:
Traditional buildings of brick, chalk cob or brick with flints
Thatch common in the river valleys
Timber frame barns a common feature


FG KeyChar:
•	Winchester, Andover, Basingstoke and Alton are the key towns which serve the area.  Several major transport routes such as the M3 cut through the landscape.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	Winchester, Andover, Basingstoke and Alton are the key towns which serve the area.  Several major transport routes such as the M3 cut through the landscape.


FG KeyChar:
•	The Test and Itchen valleys are notable features within the landscape.  The majority of other valleys are dry, although some support winter streams or ‘bournes’.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	The Test and Itchen valleys are notable features within the landscape.  The majority of other valleys are dry, although some support winter streams or ‘bournes’.


FG KeyChar:
•	Fields are generally large and rectilinear, with hedgerows, coniferous shelterbelts, fences or edges of ancient woodland defining the field pattern.  Trackways with wide verges also often form field boundaries.

Edited_KeyChars:
Fields generally large and rectilinear with hedgerows
Coniferous shelterbelts and fences may also bound fields
Ditches in the valley bottoms which are largely devoid of hedgerows
Brick and flint walls define the pale of major estates


FG KeyChar:
•	Many of the higher parts are capped by a shallow deposit of clay with flints, often forming a flat or gently domed plateau.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	Many of the higher parts are capped by a shallow deposit of clay with flints, often forming a flat or gently domed plateau.


FG KeyChar:
•	Iron Age hill-forts and Bronze Age burial mounds are prominent historical landscape features.
•Numerous wooded valleys are characteristic features, with a significant proportion of ancient semi-natural woodland.  Wood-pastures and plantations are also found within the landscape.  Parklands and estates feature widely.

Edited_KeyChars:
Iron Age hillforts and Bronze Age burial mounds
Roman roads
Parklands and estates with wood pastures and plantations
Ponds in river valleys


FG KeyChar:
•	Ancient woodlands, hedgerows and wood-pastures, and areas of unimproved species-rich chalk grassland, are the key semi-natural habitats.

Edited_KeyChars:
Unimproved species-rich chalk grassland
Reedbeds, fen, marsh in the valleys of the Test and Itchen and other valleys


FG KeyChar:
•	There is a widely dispersed pattern of villages and hamlets, predominantly in valleys with the open downland sparsely populated.
•	Winchester, Andover, Basingstoke and Alton are the key towns which serve the area.  Several major transport routes such as the M3 cut through the landscape.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	There is a widely dispersed pattern of villages and hamlets, predominantly in valleys with the open downland sparsely populated.
•	Winchester, Andover, Basingstoke and Alton are the key towns which serve the area.  Several major transport routes such as the M3 cut through the landscape.


FG KeyChar:
•	The Hampshire Downs are a strongly rolling chalk downland dissected by sheltered valleys and combes.
•	Many of the higher parts are capped by a shallow deposit of clay with flints, often forming a flat or gently domed plateau.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	The Hampshire Downs are a strongly rolling chalk downland dissected by sheltered valleys and combes.
•	Many of the higher parts are capped by a shallow deposit of clay with flints, often forming a flat or gently domed plateau.


FG KeyChar:
•Numerous wooded valleys are characteristic features, with a significant proportion of ancient semi-natural woodland.  Wood-pastures and plantations are also found within the landscape.  Parklands and estates feature widely.

Edited_KeyChars:
Wooded valleys  and slopes with ancient semi-natural oak woodland and hazel coppice
Distinctive beech copses on higher chalk knolls
Wood-pastures and plantations
Mature poplar plantations in valley bottoms
Alder, sallow and willow trees fringing water courses, with willows often pollarded


FG KeyChar:
•	Small enclosed fields and paddocks in, and on the edge of, the forest are bounded by Hampshire hedgebanks with hedgerows  and used for livestock rearing and back-up grazing.
•	Arable land uses predominate in the south on the richer agricultural soils where large regular fields are bounded by neat, low hedgerows with hedgerow oaks.

Edited_KeyChars:
Extensive mixed grazing  by ponies and cattle on open Forest
Enclosed fields/ paddocks for stock rearing and back-up grazing
Areas of rough grazing
Arable in the south on richer agricultural soils
Areas of wet grassland and water meadows in the valley of the Avon


FG KeyChar:
•	There are bleak and exposed salt marshes and shingle beaches along the Solent coast from where there are views to the Isle of Wight.

Edited_KeyChars:
Salt marshes and shingle beaches along Solent coast


FG KeyChar:
•	Surface water drains into the Avon, Lymington, Beaulieu and Test Rivers which flow southwards into the Solent.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	Surface water drains into the Avon, Lymington, Beaulieu and Test Rivers which flow southwards into the Solent.


Edited_KeyChars:
Small enclosures with Hampshire hedgebanks in and around the Forest
Large regular fields with neat low hedgerows in arable areas


FG KeyChar:
•	The acidic plateau supports large coniferous plantations on former heath and scattered self-sown birch and pine trees.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	The acidic plateau supports large coniferous plantations on former heath and scattered self-sown birch and pine trees.


FG KeyChar:
•	The absence of intensive agriculture in the Forest core has ensured the survival of numerous historic features including Bronze Age round barrows and Iron Age field systems.
•	Traditional buildings include large country houses and estate villages, hunting lodges, terraces of workers cottages, and small thatched cottages with steep pitches.

Edited_KeyChars:
Unique survival of historic commoning system on former royal hunting forest
Numerous historic features including Bronze Age round barrows and Iron Age field system
Remnant medieval field systems


FG KeyChar:
•	The brown forest soils in the centre of the area support one of the largest tracts of semi-natural woodland in southern England – these ancient and ornamental woodlands are typically composed of oak, beech and sweet chestnut.
•	The open lawns, grassland, wood pasture and heath are maintained by close grazing enabled by common grazing rights.
•	Ancient oaks and wood pasture are features of the forest landscape.
•	Lowland heaths, acidic grasslands and mires occur in the central area.
•	Valley bogs and grasslands occur in the Avon Valley, alongside the expanses of open water left by the extraction of gravels in the valley bottom.
•	There are bleak and exposed salt marshes and shingle beaches along the Solent coast from where there are views to the Isle of Wight.

Edited_KeyChars:
Lawns, wood pasture, lowland heaths with common grazing
Acid grasslands and valley mires and bogs
Floodplain grasslands and open water in Avon Valley


FG KeyChar:
•	The Forest is sparsely populated with small forest villages or isolated dwellings, each with their own garden or paddock, linked by a network of narrow lanes.
•	Traditional buildings include large country houses and estate villages, hunting lodges, terraces of workers cottages, and small thatched cottages with steep pitches.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	The Forest is sparsely populated with small forest villages or isolated dwellings, each with their own garden or paddock, linked by a network of narrow lanes.
•	Traditional buildings include large country houses and estate villages, hunting lodges, terraces of workers cottages, and small thatched cottages with steep pitches.


FG KeyChar:
•	Open and exposed plateaux and gently rolling hills are incised by wide U shaped valleys.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	Open and exposed plateaux and gently rolling hills are incised by wide U shaped valleys.


FG KeyChar:
•	The acidic plateau supports large coniferous plantations on former heath and scattered self-sown birch and pine trees.
•	The brown forest soils in the centre of the area support one of the largest tracts of semi-natural woodland in southern England – these ancient and ornamental woodlands are typically composed of oak, beech and sweet chestnut.
•	Ancient oaks and wood pasture are features of the forest landscape.

Edited_KeyChars:
Extensive ancient and ornamental woodlands of oak, beech and sweet chestnut (wood pasture)
Scattered self-sown birch and pine trees on heath
Hedgerow and field oaks in enclosed landscapes
Riverside trees in the valley of the Avon


FG KeyChar:
•	Extensive areas of cereal cropping dominate the agricultural land.

Edited_KeyChars:
Arable cultivation dominant except on Salisbury Plain
Dry pastures on lower valley slopes, with meadows and damp pasture on the valley floor
Unimproved water meadows and remnant traditional watercress beds in valleys of Avon and tributaries


FG KeyChar:
•	Older cottages of cob and thatch roofs, with brick and tile common from the 19th century onwards.

Edited_KeyChars:
Traditional agricultural buildings largely of brick and flint with timber-framed barns common


FG KeyChar:
•	The chalk upland is dissected by distinctive intimate river valleys part of the River Avon system.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	The chalk upland is dissected by distinctive intimate river valleys part of the River Avon system.


FG KeyChar:
•	Large arable fields with very few hedges predominate across the area.

Edited_KeyChars:
Large arable fields with very few hedges
Ditches in valley bottoms
Brick and flint walls define the pale of major estates


FG KeyChar:
•	Sarsen stones are scattered across Salisbury Plain and Downs.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	Sarsen stones are scattered across Salisbury Plain and Downs.


FG KeyChar:
•	An outstanding prehistoric ritual landscape with widespread earthworks and monuments prominent in the open landscape, especially Stonehenge.
•	Locally distinctive features include chalk-cut white horses.
•	Large parklands and estate landscapes particularly within the valleys.

Edited_KeyChars:
Outstanding prehistoric ritual landscape with widespread prominent earthworks and monuments including Stonehenge World Heritage Site
Locally distinctive features chalk-cut white horses
Large parkland and estate landscapes particularly in valleys


FG KeyChar:
•	Salisbury Plain contains one of the largest remaining areas of calcareous grassland in north-west Europe.

Edited_KeyChars:
Salisbury Plain has one of the largest remaining areas of calcareous grassland in north west Europe
Valley bottom wetlands and grasslands


FG KeyChar:
•	Large parklands and estate landscapes particularly within the valleys.
•	Traditional settlement pattern of nucleated villages on the edges of the valley floodplain and foot of scarp slopes contrasting with the unsettled open downland.
•	Groups of estate cottages in uniform style are a notable feature.
•	The Character Area includes Salisbury with its fine riverside and waterside setting.
•	Military housing is present at Tidworth, Larkhill, Durrington and Amesbury .

Edited_KeyChars:
•	Large parklands and estate landscapes particularly within the valleys.
•	Traditional settlement pattern of nucleated villages on the edges of the valley floodplain and foot of scarp slopes contrasting with the unsettled open downland.
•	Groups of estate cottages in uniform style are a notable feature.
•	The Character Area includes Salisbury with its fine riverside and waterside setting.
•	Military housing is present at Tidworth, Larkhill, Durrington and Amesbury .


FG KeyChar:
•	An extensive, open rolling chalk plateau.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	An extensive, open rolling chalk plateau.


FG KeyChar:
•	Scattered copses and shelterbelts on the high downs with woodlands confined mainly to valleys and steep slopes. Extensive ridge top ancient oak woodlands at Grovely Wood and Great Ridge.

Edited_KeyChars:
Scattered copses, clumps and shelterbelts on high downs
Woodlands confined mainly to valleys and steep slopes
Extensive ridge top ancient oak woodlands at Grovely Wood and Great Ridge
Field trees associated with areas of estate plantings
Wet woodland and lines of willow and poplar along watercourses


FG KeyChar:
•	The area is characterised by mixed farming, although pasture dominates in the clay vales with arable on the Upper Greensand dip slope.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	The area is characterised by mixed farming, although pasture dominates in the clay vales with arable on the Upper Greensand dip slope.


FG KeyChar:
•	A wide variety of local building materials and techniques have been used, including local stone with brick and half timbering.  Fine dressed stone is reserved for mansions and manor houses.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	A wide variety of local building materials and techniques have been used, including local stone with brick and half timbering.  Fine dressed stone is reserved for mansions and manor houses.


FG KeyChar:
•	Four principle river systems drain the area and include the Rive Stour, Brue, Frome and Nadder which cuts through the Vale of Wardour.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	Four principle river systems drain the area and include the Rive Stour, Brue, Frome and Nadder which cuts through the Vale of Wardour.


FG KeyChar:
•	Field patterns include both rectilinear Parliamentary enclosures and small Medieval irregular enclosures, both bounded by hedgerows.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	Field patterns include both rectilinear Parliamentary enclosures and small Medieval irregular enclosures, both bounded by hedgerows.


FG KeyChar:
•	Undulating, heavy fertile vales formed of Upper Jurassic clay are fringed by Upper Greensand hills and scarps and low limestone hills.
•	To the south is the chalk escarpment of the Dorset Downs.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	Undulating, heavy fertile vales formed of Upper Jurassic clay are fringed by Upper Greensand hills and scarps and low limestone hills.
•	To the south is the chalk escarpment of the Dorset Downs.


FG KeyChar:
•	Large estates and their landscaped parklands, developed in the 16th and 17th Century, flank the edge of the area and are highly significant features in the landscape including the landscape parks at Wardour, Longleat, Marston Bigot and Stourhead.  In addition, there are remnants of the former royal hunting forests of Selwood and Gillingham.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	Large estates and their landscaped parklands, developed in the 16th and 17th Century, flank the edge of the area and are highly significant features in the landscape including the landscape parks at Wardour, Longleat, Marston Bigot and Stourhead.  In addition, there are remnants of the former royal hunting forests of Selwood and Gillingham.


FG KeyChar:
•	Remnant flood meadows remain alongside streams and rivers while on higher ground and common land there are remnant patches of species rich acid grassland, with areas of scrub on the northern scarp slopes.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	Remnant flood meadows remain alongside streams and rivers while on higher ground and common land there are remnant patches of species rich acid grassland, with areas of scrub on the northern scarp slopes.


FG KeyChar:
•	Large estates and their landscaped parklands, developed in the 16th and 17th Century, flank the edge of the area and are highly significant features in the landscape including the landscape parks at Wardour, Longleat, Marston Bigot and Stourhead.  In addition, there are remnants of the former royal hunting forests of Selwood and Gillingham.
•	Small nucleated villages and hamlets are located in sheltered valleys and on the low limestone hillocks within the clay vale.  
•	Towns include Gillingham, Shaftesbury, Wincanton, Frome and Sturminster Newton.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	Large estates and their landscaped parklands, developed in the 16th and 17th Century, flank the edge of the area and are highly significant features in the landscape including the landscape parks at Wardour, Longleat, Marston Bigot and Stourhead.  In addition, there are remnants of the former royal hunting forests of Selwood and Gillingham.
•	Small nucleated villages and hamlets are located in sheltered valleys and on the low limestone hillocks within the clay vale.  
•	Towns include Gillingham, Shaftesbury, Wincanton, Frome and Sturminster Newton.


FG KeyChar:
•	Undulating, heavy fertile vales formed of Upper Jurassic clay are fringed by Upper Greensand hills and scarps and low limestone hills.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	Undulating, heavy fertile vales formed of Upper Jurassic clay are fringed by Upper Greensand hills and scarps and low limestone hills.


FG KeyChar:
•	On the scarp slopes of the Greensand are ancient woodlands and coniferous plantations, whilst alongside streams and rivers, willows and alders are common.  Scattered broadleaved woodlands are evident throughout the area.
•	Hedgerow trees are widespread; predominately mature oaks

Edited_KeyChars:
•	On the scarp slopes of the Greensand are ancient woodlands and coniferous plantations, whilst alongside streams and rivers, willows and alders are common.  Scattered broadleaved woodlands are evident throughout the area.
•	Hedgerow trees are widespread; predominately mature oaks


FG KeyChar:
•	Open, mainly arable, downland on the dip-slope with low and sparse hedgerows. 
•	Pasture and smaller scale fields within valleys.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	Open, mainly arable, downland on the dip-slope with low and sparse hedgerows. 
•	Pasture and smaller scale fields within valleys.


FG KeyChar:
•	Low, rendered buildings are common.  Flint with brick dressing, clunch and thatch are traditional materials reflecting the lack of a consistent supply of building stone.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	Low, rendered buildings are common.  Flint with brick dressing, clunch and thatch are traditional materials reflecting the lack of a consistent supply of building stone.


FG KeyChar:
•	Streams cut through the scarp in steep valleys.  Water meadows are found in the wider valleys.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	Streams cut through the scarp in steep valleys.  Water meadows are found in the wider valleys.


FG KeyChar:
•	Open, mainly arable, downland on the dip-slope with low and sparse hedgerows.
•	Pasture and smaller scale fields within valleys.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	Open, mainly arable, downland on the dip-slope with low and sparse hedgerows.
•	Pasture and smaller scale fields within valleys.


FG KeyChar:
•	A rolling, chalk landscape with dramatic scarps and more gentle dipslopes with spectacular views over the surrounding lowlands.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	A rolling, chalk landscape with dramatic scarps and more gentle dipslopes with spectacular views over the surrounding lowlands.


FG KeyChar:
•	Prominent and vast hillforts and other prehistoric features crown the highest ridges above the steep scarp slope.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	Prominent and vast hillforts and other prehistoric features crown the highest ridges above the steep scarp slope.


FG KeyChar:
•	Scarp slopes support species-rich calcareous grassland.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	Scarp slopes support species-rich calcareous grassland.


FG KeyChar:
•	Across the downs isolated farmsteads are linked by ancient lanes.
•	Linear villages are found in the sheltered valleys and ancient settlements cluster at the foot of the scarp along the springline.  
•	Blandford Forum and Dorchester are the only towns in this area.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	Across the downs isolated farmsteads are linked by ancient lanes.
•	Linear villages are found in the sheltered valleys and ancient settlements cluster at the foot of the scarp along the springline.  
•	Blandford Forum and Dorchester are the only towns in this area.


FG KeyChar:
•	A rolling, chalk landscape with dramatic scarps and more gentle dipslopes with spectacular views over the surrounding lowlands.
•	Complex combes and steep-sided, sheltered valleys with woodlands, hedged fields, flood meadows and villages in flint and thatch.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	A rolling, chalk landscape with dramatic scarps and more gentle dipslopes with spectacular views over the surrounding lowlands.
•	Complex combes and steep-sided, sheltered valleys with woodlands, hedged fields, flood meadows and villages in flint and thatch.


FG KeyChar:
•	Woodlands, shelterbelts of beech, ash and sycamore, deer parks, clumps and copses containing ancient hazel coppice.
•	Hill top copses (mainly beech) are a feature.
•	Few trees on the dipslope, but woodland increases towards the lowlands.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	Woodlands, shelterbelts of beech, ash and sycamore, deer parks, clumps and copses containing ancient hazel coppice.
•	Hill top copses (mainly beech) are a feature.
•	Few trees on the dipslope, but woodland increases towards the lowlands.


FG KeyChar:
•	Pasture characterises the agricultural landscape with areas of arable confined mainly to the floodplains.

Edited_KeyChars:
Mostly pasture
Characteristic wet floodplain grasslands (at risk)
Areas of arable in floodplains


FG KeyChar:
•	Dispersed hamlets and isolated farms and cottages are traditionally of red brick, commonly clay from local pits, roofed in tiles or thatch.

Edited_KeyChars:
Traditional farms and cottages of local red brick, roofed in tiles or thatch


FG KeyChar:
•	Along its eastern edge the heath gives way to the sandy bays, creeks, mud-flats and off-shore islands of Poole Harbour.

Edited_KeyChars:
Sandy bays, creeks, mud-flats and off-shore islands of Poole Harbour


FG KeyChar:
•	Off the heathland, small fields are divided by hedgerows with frequent hedgerow trees.

Edited_KeyChars:
Unenclosed heathland
Elsewhere small fields are divided by hedgerows


FG KeyChar:
•	Heathland covers the core of the area - broken locally by steep-sided sandstone hills and patches of exposed chalk.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	Heathland covers the core of the area - broken locally by steep-sided sandstone hills and patches of exposed chalk.


FG KeyChar:
•	Bronze Age barrows are visible on more prominent heathland sites while the prehistoric port at Hengistbury Head is of international historic importance.

Edited_KeyChars:
Bronze Age barrows on prominent heathland sites
Prehistoric port at Hengistbury Head of international importance
Scattered areas of parkland around the fringes of the heathland


FG KeyChar:
•	Much of the area is sparsely populated but the growing conurbation of Poole-Bournemouth, which takes up the full southern coastline of the area, is a major influence, with surrounding areas under severe development pressure.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	Much of the area is sparsely populated but the growing conurbation of Poole-Bournemouth, which takes up the full southern coastline of the area, is a major influence, with surrounding areas under severe development pressure.


FG KeyChar:
•	Heather dominates the open heathland with areas of purple moor-grass.  Areas of conifer plantation have now been restored to heathland to relink heathland fragments.
•	Along its eastern edge the heath gives way to the sandy bays, creeks, mud-flats and off-shore islands of Poole Harbour.

Edited_KeyChars:
Heathland of heather and purple moor-grass (affected by reversion to scrub and woodland)
Remnant areas of acidic grassland around the heathland edge and in scattered enclosures


Edited_KeyChars:
•	Dispersed hamlets and isolated farms and cottages are traditionally of red brick, commonly clay from local pits, roofed in tiles or thatch.


FG KeyChar:
•	This is a low undulating exposed and open broad-scale landscape of poor sandy soils with views north across  Poole Harbour.
•	The heathland is surrounded by a transitional landscape of rolling hills and broad, river valleys commonly bordered by river terrace deposits forming extensive terrace flats.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	This is a low undulating exposed and open broad-scale landscape of poor sandy soils with views north across  Poole Harbour.
•	The heathland is surrounded by a transitional landscape of rolling hills and broad, river valleys commonly bordered by river terrace deposits forming extensive terrace flats.


FG KeyChar:
•	Blocks of conifers and successional oak-birch woodland break up the heathland  and form locally prominent landmarks while around the heathland edge secondary woodland, dominated by birch, forms an intricate mosaic with open pasture.
•	Occasional stunted pine stand out on the open heathland.

Edited_KeyChars:
Distinctive stunted pines and successional oak-birch on heath
Secondary woodland, mainly birch, round heathland edge in mosaic with open pasture
Frequent hedgerow trees in enclosed landscapes


FG KeyChar:
•	Agricultural land use is mixed, reflecting the varying geology.

Edited_KeyChars:
Mixed agriculture domonated by arable and improved pasture
Areas of rough grazing in the Corfe Valley


FG KeyChar:
•	Many of the traditional buildings inland are of Purbeck or Portland Stone.

Edited_KeyChars:
Many traditional buildings of Purbeck or Portland Stone


FG KeyChar:
•	Swanage, on the east coast, is a substantial resort town with development spreading out to caravan sites and holiday cottages. Substantial military ranges along the coast.

Edited_KeyChars:
Dramatic, diverse coast of international geological importance including chalk cliffs and stacks and lower-lying clays


FG KeyChar:
•	The Corfe  is the main river of the Character Area, draining into Poole Harbour.  Southward-draining dry valleys occur along the coast.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	The Corfe  is the main river of the Character Area, draining into Poole Harbour.  Southward-draining dry valleys occur along the coast.


FG KeyChar:
•	The Corfe Valley is enclosed by hedgerows with dense belts of hedgerow trees.  As the land rises up to the limestone plateau hedgerows are gradually replaced by dry stone walls.

Edited_KeyChars:
Hedgerows on the lower slopes of the chalk ridge, around Kimmeridge, and enclosing irregularly shaped small fields in the Corfe Valley of great historic importance
On limestone plateau hedgerows replaced by dry stone walls


FG KeyChar:
•	South Purbeck has an exceptionally diverse landscape despite its small size, strongly influenced by the underlying chalk, limestone, shale and clay geology.
•	The dramatic and diverse south coast is of international geological importance, embracing elements of all the inland landscapes.  
•	A narrow but prominent chalk ridge rises almost vertically to separate the Character Area from the adjacent Dorset Heaths to the north.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	South Purbeck has an exceptionally diverse landscape despite its small size, strongly influenced by the underlying chalk, limestone, shale and clay geology.
•	The dramatic and diverse south coast is of international geological importance, embracing elements of all the inland landscapes.  
•	A narrow but prominent chalk ridge rises almost vertically to separate the Character Area from the adjacent Dorset Heaths to the north.


FG KeyChar:
•	The area is of significant historical interest, with early settlements, Medieval industrial sites and the prominent Corfe Castle.

Edited_KeyChars:
Significant historical interest including early settlements, medieval industrial sites and Corfe Castle
Strip fields and lynchets characteristic features of valley sides and along coast
Important areas of parkland


FG KeyChar:
•	Chalk grasslands, scrubby slopes and ancient woodlands of the chalk ridge combined with calcareous grasslands along the dramatic rolling cliff tops are the main semi-natural habitats of the area.

Edited_KeyChars:
Chalk grasslands and scrubby slopes on chalk ridge
Calcareous grasslands along dramatic rolling cliff tops
Acid grassland on Corfe Common
Small areas of heathland as outlyers of the Dorset heaths


FG KeyChar:
•	Inland are many villages, hamlets and farms linked by a dense network of lanes.  Small villages on the plateau are centred around quarries.  
•	Swanage, on the east coast, is a substantial resort town with development spreading out to caravan sites and holiday cottages. Substantial military ranges along the coast.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	Inland are many villages, hamlets and farms linked by a dense network of lanes.  Small villages on the plateau are centred around quarries.  
•	Swanage, on the east coast, is a substantial resort town with development spreading out to caravan sites and holiday cottages. Substantial military ranges along the coast.


FG KeyChar:
•	South Purbeck has an exceptionally diverse landscape despite its small size, strongly influenced by the underlying chalk, limestone, shale and clay geology.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	South Purbeck has an exceptionally diverse landscape despite its small size, strongly influenced by the underlying chalk, limestone, shale and clay geology.


FG KeyChar:
•	Woodland cover varies across the area, from the strong belts of ancient woodland along the northern edge of the chalk ridge, large copses and small woodlands in the central Corfe Valley, to the largely treeless limestone plateau to the south.

Edited_KeyChars:
Belts of ancient woodland (oak and beech) on northern edge of chalk ridge on steep slopes
Large copses of trees and small woodlands and dense hedgerow tree cover on the slopes of the limestone ridges
Largely treeless limestone plateau to the south


FG KeyChar:
•	Arable dominates the higher ground with pasture on steeper slopes and in valley bottoms.

Edited_KeyChars:
Arable dominates higher ground
Pasture on steeper slopes and in valley bottoms


FG KeyChar:
•	Older buildings are a mixture of materials – grey limestone and brick are widely used with thatch a traditional roofing material near the coast.  Buildings on the Isle of Portland are made from local Portland Limestone.


FG KeyChar:
•	Rectilinear fields on the inland ridges are enclosed by sparse hedges with few hedgerow trees.  Dry stone walls are used on the steeper land and on Portland.

Edited_KeyChars:
Small fields, enclosed by regular pattern of stone walls


FG KeyChar:
•	Settlements are mainly located on the lower valley slopes or close to streams.  Farmsteads or hamlets lie on valley sides, commonly close together linked by narrow lanes.  Portland is quite densely settled, with substantial stone villages dominating the open landscape.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	Settlements are mainly located on the lower valley slopes or close to streams.  Farmsteads or hamlets lie on valley sides, commonly close together linked by narrow lanes.  Portland is quite densely settled, with substantial stone villages dominating the open landscape.


FG KeyChar:
•	The Isle of Portland, which lies to the south, is a dramatic, wedge-shaped peninsula extending out sharply into the English Channel.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	The Isle of Portland, which lies to the south, is a dramatic, wedge-shaped peninsula extending out sharply into the English Channel.


Edited_KeyChars:
•	Arable dominates the higher ground with pasture on steeper slopes and in valley bottoms.


Edited_KeyChars:
•	Older buildings are a mixture of materials – grey limestone and brick are widely used with thatch a traditional roofing material near the coast.  Buildings on the Isle of Portland are made from local Portland Limestone.


FG KeyChar:
•	The River Wey cuts through the ridge and valley pattern of the Weymouth Lowlands to form a coastal lagoon at Weymouth, around which the harbour and town has developed.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	The River Wey cuts through the ridge and valley pattern of the Weymouth Lowlands to form a coastal lagoon at Weymouth, around which the harbour and town has developed.


Edited_KeyChars:
•	Rectilinear fields on the inland ridges are enclosed by sparse hedges with few hedgerow trees.  Dry stone walls are used on the steeper land and on Portland.


FG KeyChar:
•	The Weymouth Lowlands are united by an underlying broad ridge and valley pattern. 
•	The Isle of Portland, which lies to the south, is a dramatic, wedge-shaped peninsula extending out sharply into the English Channel. 
•	It is linked to the mainland by Chesil Beach; a huge sweeping shingle ridge separated at its eastern end from the mainland by an elongated brackish tidal lagoon (The Fleet).

Edited_KeyChars:
•	The Weymouth Lowlands are united by an underlying broad ridge and valley pattern. 
•	The Isle of Portland, which lies to the south, is a dramatic, wedge-shaped peninsula extending out sharply into the English Channel. 
•	It is linked to the mainland by Chesil Beach; a huge sweeping shingle ridge separated at its eastern end from the mainland by an elongated brackish tidal lagoon (The Fleet).


FG KeyChar:
•	The majority of the area is treeless, although there are some valley woodlands and plantations in the west.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	The majority of the area is treeless, although there are some valley woodlands and plantations in the west.


FG KeyChar:
•	Pasture is the predominant land use in the Marshwood Vale, on the Powerstock Hills and on the steeper slopes of the greensand ridges and hills.  Arable cultivation predominates on shallower land and in the broad Brit valley.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	Pasture is the predominant land use in the Marshwood Vale, on the Powerstock Hills and on the steeper slopes of the greensand ridges and hills.  Arable cultivation predominates on shallower land and in the broad Brit valley.


FG KeyChar:
•	Settlement comprises small hamlets and many large farmsteads, linked by winding lanes, often with hedgebanks.  Older traditional buildings are built of limestone or Ham Hill Stone.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	Settlement comprises small hamlets and many large farmsteads, linked by winding lanes, often with hedgebanks.  Older traditional buildings are built of limestone or Ham Hill Stone.


FG KeyChar:
•	The coastline has a remote, varied character, with small valleys separating prominent headlands; landslips leaving dramatic stepped slopes; sheer amber-coloured cliffs and pebble beaches.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	The coastline has a remote, varied character, with small valleys separating prominent headlands; landslips leaving dramatic stepped slopes; sheer amber-coloured cliffs and pebble beaches.


FG KeyChar:
•	The rhythmic pattern of this landscape is defined by its strong but varied network of hedgerows and mature hedgerow trees. Hedgerows are typically low and well trimmed on the greensand ridges, overgrown on the steeper slopes and dense but well managed in the vale.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	The rhythmic pattern of this landscape is defined by its strong but varied network of hedgerows and mature hedgerow trees. Hedgerows are typically low and well trimmed on the greensand ridges, overgrown on the steeper slopes and dense but well managed in the vale.


FG KeyChar:
•	The classic bowl-shaped clay vale of Marshwood is surrounded by steep ridges and headlands of Upper Greensand.  Towards the coast, the greensand has been eroded to form clusters of hills, each with a distinctive summit.  
•	To the east, the flat Brit river valley is enclosed by the complex, small-scale landscape of conical oolitic limestone hills surrounding the village of Powerstock.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	The classic bowl-shaped clay vale of Marshwood is surrounded by steep ridges and headlands of Upper Greensand.  Towards the coast, the greensand has been eroded to form clusters of hills, each with a distinctive summit.  
•	To the east, the flat Brit river valley is enclosed by the complex, small-scale landscape of conical oolitic limestone hills surrounding the village of Powerstock.


JM KeyChar:
•	Many important historic landscape features occur in this area including concentrations of prehistoric barrows and hillforts, extensive strip lynchets, moated sites and castles.


FG KeyChar:
•	Unimproved grasslands, wet flushes and marshy areas are found along the springlines at the valley sides and there are prominent patches of heathland within mosaics of bracken, gorse and acid grassland on the ridges and steeper greensand slopes.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	Unimproved grasslands, wet flushes and marshy areas are found along the springlines at the valley sides and there are prominent patches of heathland within mosaics of bracken, gorse and acid grassland on the ridges and steeper greensand slopes.


FG KeyChar:
•	The classic bowl-shaped clay vale of Marshwood is surrounded by steep ridges and headlands of Upper Greensand.  Towards the coast, the greensand has been eroded to form clusters of hills, each with a distinctive summit.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	The classic bowl-shaped clay vale of Marshwood is surrounded by steep ridges and headlands of Upper Greensand.  Towards the coast, the greensand has been eroded to form clusters of hills, each with a distinctive summit.


FG KeyChar:
•	The Marshwood Vale has a distinctive scattering of mature hedgerow oak trees, with narrow ribbons of woodland along the many streams; elsewhere woodlands and copses are confined to steeper slopes, with larger conifer plantations on the northwest borders of the area, where it merges with the Blackmore Vale.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	The Marshwood Vale has a distinctive scattering of mature hedgerow oak trees, with narrow ribbons of woodland along the many streams; elsewhere woodlands and copses are confined to steeper slopes, with larger conifer plantations on the northwest borders of the area, where it merges with the Blackmore Vale.


FG KeyChar:
•	Although there is a mixture of arable, the dominant landcover is grassland, ranging from improved pastures in valley bottoms to rough pasture on steep hillsides.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	Although there is a mixture of arable, the dominant landcover is grassland, ranging from improved pastures in valley bottoms to rough pasture on steep hillsides.


FG KeyChar:
•	Building materials are varied, although local Ham Hill stone is most characteristic of the area, reflected in visually dominant churches.  Other construction materials include cream and pink coloured limestone, sandstones, timber, thatch and more recently, brick.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	Building materials are varied, although local Ham Hill stone is most characteristic of the area, reflected in visually dominant churches.  Other construction materials include cream and pink coloured limestone, sandstones, timber, thatch and more recently, brick.


FG KeyChar:
•	Tributaries of the Brue, Parrett and Yeo drain from the scarp slopes cutting an intricate pattern of irregular hills and valleys.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	Tributaries of the Brue, Parrett and Yeo drain from the scarp slopes cutting an intricate pattern of irregular hills and valleys.


FG KeyChar:
•	Whilst hedges are non existent or low in the south west, they are thick with substantial hedgebanks elsewhere.  On higher ground there are scattered areas of dry stone walls.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	Whilst hedges are non existent or low in the south west, they are thick with substantial hedgebanks elsewhere.  On higher ground there are scattered areas of dry stone walls.


FG KeyChar:
•	This is a diverse landscape of wide valley bottoms, hills, ridge tops and combes united by scarps of Jurassic limestone and sandstone ranging from 50 to 150m AOD.
•	The soils are largely calcareous clays and brown earths with small areas of stagnogleys.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	This is a diverse landscape of wide valley bottoms, hills, ridge tops and combes united by scarps of Jurassic limestone and sandstone ranging from 50 to 150m AOD.
•	The soils are largely calcareous clays and brown earths with small areas of stagnogleys.


FG KeyChar:
•	Prominent features include the prehistoric hill forts of South Cadbury and Ham Hill and houses such as Montacute, Barrington Court and Dillington House built from the Elizabethan period onwards.  Their surrounding parklands of lime, oak and beech are conspicuous features in the landscape.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	Prominent features include the prehistoric hill forts of South Cadbury and Ham Hill and houses such as Montacute, Barrington Court and Dillington House built from the Elizabethan period onwards.  Their surrounding parklands of lime, oak and beech are conspicuous features in the landscape.


FG KeyChar:
•	Although the area is well settled, there are few villages or towns of any size.  Most settlements are located in the valleys, close to watercourses with farmsteads on spring lines.  Winding minor lanes, link the settlements to higher ground.  
•	Larger settlements include the market towns of Sherborne and Yeovil – the latter having grown to a significant size, largely due to its industrial sector.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	Although the area is well settled, there are few villages or towns of any size.  Most settlements are located in the valleys, close to watercourses with farmsteads on spring lines.  Winding minor lanes, link the settlements to higher ground.  
•	Larger settlements include the market towns of Sherborne and Yeovil – the latter having grown to a significant size, largely due to its industrial sector.


FG KeyChar:
•	This is a diverse landscape of wide valley bottoms, hills, ridge tops and combes united by scarps of Jurassic limestone and sandstone ranging from 50 to 150m AOD.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	This is a diverse landscape of wide valley bottoms, hills, ridge tops and combes united by scarps of Jurassic limestone and sandstone ranging from 50 to 150m AOD.


FG KeyChar:
•	Small woods, copses and scrub are most frequent on the steep ridges and in deep combes.  There are some coniferous plantations, semi natural ancient woodlands, remnant orchards with poplar shelter belts, and streamside willow pollards and alder, predominately in the vales.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	Small woods, copses and scrub are most frequent on the steep ridges and in deep combes.  There are some coniferous plantations, semi natural ancient woodlands, remnant orchards with poplar shelter belts, and streamside willow pollards and alder, predominately in the vales.


FG KeyChar:
•	The majority of the character area is under improved pasture, with some horticulture in the south west.  Pig rearing is becoming increasingly common on the plateau.

Edited_KeyChars:
Mainly improved pasture with some pig rearing on plateau
Areas of rough grazing on the plateau and Bleadon Hills
Some horticulture in south west (the Strawberry Belt)
Floodplain under intensive arable cultivation


FG KeyChar:
•	Buildings are constructed of red conglomerate, grey limestone and pale grey Doulting Stone.  Most older Mendip buildings are modest cottages in rough, exposed stone with almost no detailing of windows and doorways.

Edited_KeyChars:
Limestone and conglomerate in buildings give a unified character
Most older buildings in rough, exposed stone with little detailing


FG KeyChar:
•	Natural surface water is almost absent on the plateau, aside from where recently abandoned mine workings have developed as ponds.  At the foot of the plateau springs emerge as the source of the Cheddar Yeo and Axe.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	Natural surface water is almost absent on the plateau, aside from where recently abandoned mine workings have developed as ponds.  At the foot of the plateau springs emerge as the source of the Cheddar Yeo and Axe.


FG KeyChar:
•	There is a mixture of enclosure.  Hedgerows are the dominant field boundary of the Character Area but with stone walls on the plateau and some of the eastern slopes.

Edited_KeyChars:
Hedgerows are main field boundary type, often outgrown on the south western slopes
Limestone walls on the plateau and some of the eastern slopes defining rectilinear fields
Floodplain areas divided by ditches and hedgerows including irregular fields


FG KeyChar:
•	An open limestone plateau with karst features including complex underground caves and river systems gives the area a unique character.  Sandstone outcrops form prominent features.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	An open limestone plateau with karst features including complex underground caves and river systems gives the area a unique character.  Sandstone outcrops form prominent features.


FG KeyChar:
•	There are many industrial archaeological sites, reflecting the past lead, coal and cloth industries.  The plateau has an outstanding assemblage of prehistoric features such as burial mounds and hill forts.

Edited_KeyChars:
Many relics of past lead, coal and cloth industries
Outstanding prehistoric features such as burial mounds and hillforts on plateau
Historic parkland with mature trees


FG KeyChar:
•	The area is characterised by unimproved limestone grassland on the plateau slopes, open moorland in the north, marshy land in the valley bottoms, including some neutral unimproved meadows and damp woodlands, and ‘gruffy ground’ left from the lead industry which has revegetated to form important semi-natural habitats.

Edited_KeyChars:
Unimproved limestone grassland and karst features on plateau 
Open heathland/ moorland in north
Marshy land in valley bottoms, including some neutral unimproved meadows
‘Gruffy ground’ left from the lead industry which has revegetated to form important semi-natural habitats


FG KeyChar:
•	Villages are concentrated at the foot of the plateau slopes.  Elsewhere, settlement is scattered.  Major transport routes such as the M5 and A38 cut through the area.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	Villages are concentrated at the foot of the plateau slopes.  Elsewhere, settlement is scattered.  Major transport routes such as the M5 and A38 cut through the area.


FG KeyChar:
•	The Mendip Hills are a chain of prominent limestone hills extending inland from the coast and rising up sharply from the surrounding lowlands.
•	Dramatic gorges, cliffs and escarpment slopes surround the plateau.  Further west, land breaks into individual hills.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	The Mendip Hills are a chain of prominent limestone hills extending inland from the coast and rising up sharply from the surrounding lowlands.
•	Dramatic gorges, cliffs and escarpment slopes surround the plateau.  Further west, land breaks into individual hills.


FG KeyChar:
•	The plateau and hilltops are largely treeless, except for a few old ash pollards and wind-shaped shelterbelts and conifer plantations.  The slopes and valleys surrounding the plateau have a wide range of woodlands forming an attractive mosaic with open land and other land uses.

Edited_KeyChars:
Plateau and hilltops largely treeless except for old ash pollards and wind-shaped shelterbelts
Slopes and valleys with wide range of woodlands in mosaic with other land uses
Damp woodland in valley bottoms
Small groups of willow in the Yeo floodplain
Hedgerow trees more common in the east
Orchards on the outskirts of  Loxton


FG KeyChar:
•	The landcover is dominated by improved pasture supporting dairying, with localised withy beds.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	The landcover is dominated by improved pasture supporting dairying, with localised withy beds.


FG KeyChar:
•	Building on the open Moors and Levels is restricted to occasional 19th Century or more recent farmsteads mainly in brick or occasional Blue Lias with clay, pantile roofs and thatch.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	Building on the open Moors and Levels is restricted to occasional 19th Century or more recent farmsteads mainly in brick or occasional Blue Lias with clay, pantile roofs and thatch.


FG KeyChar:
•	Reflecting the history of reclamation, roads are sinuous and narrow following the line of old seawalls, or straight and slightly raised.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	Reflecting the history of reclamation, roads are sinuous and narrow following the line of old seawalls, or straight and slightly raised.


FG KeyChar:
•	Most of the area lies below high tide level and the water level of the main river systems and is susceptible to flooding.
•	Rivers draining into the Levels and Moors include the Axe, Brue and Parrett.  Before the drainage schemes of the late 17th Century there was widespread sea and river flooding.  Current drainage relies on gravity pumps removing excessive backlogs of water.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	Most of the area lies below high tide level and the water level of the main river systems and is susceptible to flooding.
•	Rivers draining into the Levels and Moors include the Axe, Brue and Parrett.  Before the drainage schemes of the late 17th Century there was widespread sea and river flooding.  Current drainage relies on gravity pumps removing excessive backlogs of water.


FG KeyChar:
•	The strong chequer-board pattern of the ‘rhynes’ or ditches reflects a planned landscape reclaimed from wetland, initiated in the 13th Century with the construction of raised causeways and further major reclamation undertaken in the late 17th Century.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	The strong chequer-board pattern of the ‘rhynes’ or ditches reflects a planned landscape reclaimed from wetland, initiated in the 13th Century with the construction of raised causeways and further major reclamation undertaken in the late 17th Century.


FG KeyChar:
•	Extensive peat extraction, particularly in the Brue Valley to the east, gives rise to a more complex landscape of excavations and re-colonising scrub with ‘reclaimed’ nature reserves adding further variety.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	Extensive peat extraction, particularly in the Brue Valley to the east, gives rise to a more complex landscape of excavations and re-colonising scrub with ‘reclaimed’ nature reserves adding further variety.


FG KeyChar:
•	Pockets of semi-natural unimproved grasslands, wet meadows, fen, mire and reed beds are highly characteristic and underline the area’s wetland character, as does the emergent vegetation of the rhynes.
•	Extensive peat extraction, particularly in the Brue Valley to the east, gives rise to a more complex landscape of excavations and re-colonising scrub with ‘reclaimed’ nature reserves adding further variety.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	Pockets of semi-natural unimproved grasslands, wet meadows, fen, mire and reed beds are highly characteristic and underline the area’s wetland character, as does the emergent vegetation of the rhynes.
•	Extensive peat extraction, particularly in the Brue Valley to the east, gives rise to a more complex landscape of excavations and re-colonising scrub with ‘reclaimed’ nature reserves adding further variety.


FG KeyChar:
•	A strong planned element is also evident in towns and villages, with buildings running along single streets e.g. Langport and surrounded by strip fields.
•	Settlements on the edge of the Levels include Weston super Mare and Bridgwater and the M5 is a significant feature.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	A strong planned element is also evident in towns and villages, with buildings running along single streets e.g. Langport and surrounded by strip fields.
•	Settlements on the edge of the Levels include Weston super Mare and Bridgwater and the M5 is a significant feature.


FG KeyChar:
•	The area ranges from peat moors, clay levels, inland ‘burtles’ or gravel beds to the mudflats, storm gravel beaches and dune belt fringing the edge of Bridgwater Bay.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	The area ranges from peat moors, clay levels, inland ‘burtles’ or gravel beds to the mudflats, storm gravel beaches and dune belt fringing the edge of Bridgwater Bay.


FG KeyChar:
•	Many parts of the Levels and Moors are treeless, although groups of pollarded willow fringe the islands and ridges of higher ground and mark the lines of rhynes.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	Many parts of the Levels and Moors are treeless, although groups of pollarded willow fringe the islands and ridges of higher ground and mark the lines of rhynes.


FG KeyChar:
•	Pasture tends to be the main landcover with remnant areas of calcareous and neutral grasslands.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	Pasture tends to be the main landcover with remnant areas of calcareous and neutral grasslands.


FG KeyChar:
•	Although Blue Lias is the dominant building material, there are a variety of other materials such as oolite, sandstone and conglomerate, contrasting with many 19th Century buildings which are constructed in brick and pantile.  Tall church towers are evidence of Medieval wealth, St Michael’s on Glastonbury Tor, being the most visible landmark.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	Although Blue Lias is the dominant building material, there are a variety of other materials such as oolite, sandstone and conglomerate, contrasting with many 19th Century buildings which are constructed in brick and pantile.  Tall church towers are evidence of Medieval wealth, St Michael’s on Glastonbury Tor, being the most visible landmark.


FG KeyChar:
•	Major rivers such as the Brue, Axe and Parrett, rise on surrounding ground and cut through the Mid Somerset Hills.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	Major rivers such as the Brue, Axe and Parrett, rise on surrounding ground and cut through the Mid Somerset Hills.


FG KeyChar:
•	Hedgerows, typically containing a wide range of species and hedgerow trees are common dividing small, irregular fields except where there are planned settlements.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	Hedgerows, typically containing a wide range of species and hedgerow trees are common dividing small, irregular fields except where there are planned settlements.


FG KeyChar:
•	The underlying geology is of late Triassic and early Jurassic grey clay and limestone overlaid by red Mercia Mudstone.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	The underlying geology is of late Triassic and early Jurassic grey clay and limestone overlaid by red Mercia Mudstone.


FG KeyChar:
•	Whilst small towns and villages like Somerton and Street lie in sheltered sites, other settlements like Meare, Wedmore and Wookey lie on island rising out of the wetlands or at the wetland edge with characteristic tracks (droves) linking these settlements with the traditional summer grazing provided by the Levels and Moors.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	Whilst small towns and villages like Somerton and Street lie in sheltered sites, other settlements like Meare, Wedmore and Wookey lie on island rising out of the wetlands or at the wetland edge with characteristic tracks (droves) linking these settlements with the traditional summer grazing provided by the Levels and Moors.


FG KeyChar:
•	The Mid Somerset Hills are a series of distinctive low hills, ridges and islands dividing the Somerset Moors and Levels.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	The Mid Somerset Hills are a series of distinctive low hills, ridges and islands dividing the Somerset Moors and Levels.


FG KeyChar:
•	Whilst woodlands of ash and maple are a common feature on the ridge tops and steeper side slopes, orchards are a particular characteristic of lower land at the boundary of the Levels and Moors, close to settlements.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	Whilst woodlands of ash and maple are a common feature on the ridge tops and steeper side slopes, orchards are a particular characteristic of lower land at the boundary of the Levels and Moors, close to settlements.


FG KeyChar:
•	Open heathland characterises the rounded summits of the northern hills, providing rough grazing.  Below the hilltops, mixed farming is predominant.

Edited_KeyChars:
Open heathland grazing on rounded summits of northern hills
Mixed farming predominant elsewhere
Beneath summits a predominantly pastural landscape (mainly improved but with some unimproved)
Rough grassland on the scarp
Arable running along ridgelines


FG KeyChar:
•	The local vernacular building style varies due to the rich diversity of locally available building materials.

Edited_KeyChars:
Local vernacular building style varies due to  rich diversity of locally available building materials


FG KeyChar:
•	The mixed geology creates spring lines where water reaches less permeable layers.  Streams cut down the scarp to form deep, incised combes.  Long, broad valleys with streams flowing to the Vale of Taunton characterise land to the east.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	The mixed geology creates spring lines where water reaches less permeable layers.  Streams cut down the scarp to form deep, incised combes.  Long, broad valleys with streams flowing to the Vale of Taunton characterise land to the east.


FG KeyChar:
•	Former deer parks and designed parklands are a characteristic landscape feature.
•	Beech hedgebanks  bound the rectangular fields around the edge of the open plateau and on the lower agricultural land in the south.  Mixed hedgerows are used elsewhere, and stone-faced banks or earth banks are used within the combes.

Edited_KeyChars:
Beech hedgebanks bound rectangular fields around edge of open plateau and on lower ground in the south (many outgrown - see woodland and trees)
Mixed hedgerows elsewhere
Stone-faced banks or earth banks within the combes


FG KeyChar:
•	 The northern end is a high plateau of Devonian sandstone cut by deep combes while in the south the landscape is more undulating, made up of Devonian slates with limestone.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	 The northern end is a high plateau of Devonian sandstone cut by deep combes while in the south the landscape is more undulating, made up of Devonian slates with limestone.


FG KeyChar:
•	Bronze Age burial mounds, barrows, standing stones and stone circles are surviving relics of the prehistoric landscape and important landscape features.  Ridge and furrow is also visible on the moorland.

Edited_KeyChars:
Bronze Age burial mounds, barrows, standing stones and stone circles
Ridge and furrow is visible on  moorland
Former deer parks and designed parklands a distinctive feature


FG KeyChar:
•	The extensive heathlands and sessile oak woodlands are important semi-natural habitats.  Rhododendron is abundant in the valleys.

Edited_KeyChars:
Extensive moorland heaths (wih transitions between upland and lowland heath affected by bracken and rhododendron invasion
Unimproved grasslands on combe sides


FG KeyChar:
•	Settlement is sparse, consisting of isolated farms, hamlets or small villages located along the spring line or tucked into the narrow combes and valleys.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	Settlement is sparse, consisting of isolated farms, hamlets or small villages located along the spring line or tucked into the narrow combes and valleys.


FG KeyChar:
•	The Quantock Hills are a discrete landform with a prominent and rounded profile.
•	 The northern end is a high plateau of Devonian sandstone cut by deep combes while in the south the landscape is more undulating, made up of Devonian slates with limestone.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	The Quantock Hills are a discrete landform with a prominent and rounded profile.
•	 The northern end is a high plateau of Devonian sandstone cut by deep combes while in the south the landscape is more undulating, made up of Devonian slates with limestone.


FG KeyChar:
•	The broad hilltops and plateau are largely treeless.  The steep valleys and lower slopes are well wooded with semi natural broadleaved woodland and forestry plantations.

Edited_KeyChars:
Broad hilltops and plateau largely treeless
Steep valleys and lower slopes covered with semi-natural ancient  broadleaved woodland  Rhododendron abundant in the valleys
Highly distinctive outgrown beech hedgebanks planted in the 19th century, now forming lines of  mature beech that define the field pattern


FG KeyChar:
•	The heather and grass moorlands are used for rough grazing with pasture on the lower slopes.  There are some localised areas of arable.

Edited_KeyChars:
Heather and grass moorlands used for rough grazing
Large enclosures of rough grazing around the moorland fringe
Improved pasture on lower slopes
Wet grasslands on valley floors
Localised areas of arable


FG KeyChar:
•	Farmsteads are built mainly of local slate and shale rubble, sometimes whitewashed.  A variety of local stone is used in the villages, along with cob and brick, with slate roofs.

Edited_KeyChars:
Farmsteads mainly of local slate and shale rubble, sometimes whitewashed
Also some cob and brick with slate roofs


FG KeyChar:
•	The plateau is deeply incised by short rivers sometimes cascading as waterfalls over the high coastal slopes and cliffs.  Steep sided valleys in the south form the headwaters of the Barle, Quarm and Exe rivers.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	The plateau is deeply incised by short rivers sometimes cascading as waterfalls over the high coastal slopes and cliffs.  Steep sided valleys in the south form the headwaters of the Barle, Quarm and Exe rivers.


FG KeyChar:
•	Rectilinear patterns of 19th Century enclosure extend high up to the moorland edge, bounded by beech-topped hedgebanks which have grown out to form wind-pruned lines of beech.  Elsewhere, older field patterns are enclosed by irregular hedges and stone walls.

Edited_KeyChars:
Rectilinear 19th century enclosures below moorland edge with beech-topped hedgebanks (many out-grown)
Older, irregular hedge and stone wall enclosures elsewhere


FG KeyChar:
•	The area is of high archaeological interest, with Bronze Age remains such as hill-forts, stone circles and barrows forming prominent features.

Edited_KeyChars:
High archaeological interest, including prominent hill-forts, stone circles and barrows
Former deer parks on lower slopes


FG KeyChar:
•	Heather, blanket bog, grass heath and bracken dominate the moorlands with coastal and wet heath.

Edited_KeyChars:
Heather, blanket bog, grass heath and bracken on moorlands
Traditional moorland grazing by Exmoor ponies
Also coastal and wet heath
Species-rich valley grasslands with a tradition of hay meadow management


FG KeyChar:
•	The central moorlands are largely devoid of settlement.  Villages are mainly concentrated in valley bottoms, often sited around river crossing points.  Along the coastal edge there is a greater variety and density of settlement.  
•	Minehead, Dunster, Dulverton and Lynton are the main towns which serve the area.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	The central moorlands are largely devoid of settlement.  Villages are mainly concentrated in valley bottoms, often sited around river crossing points.  Along the coastal edge there is a greater variety and density of settlement.  
•	Minehead, Dunster, Dulverton and Lynton are the main towns which serve the area.


FG KeyChar:
•	Exmoor is a diverse upland landscape, rising abruptly out of the surrounding lowlands.
•	A high and spectacular steeply sloping wooded coastline forms the northern edge of the area, fringing the Bristol Channel.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	Exmoor is a diverse upland landscape, rising abruptly out of the surrounding lowlands.
•	A high and spectacular steeply sloping wooded coastline forms the northern edge of the area, fringing the Bristol Channel.


FG KeyChar:
•	Woodland, mostly ancient and oak-dominated, cloaks the steep coastal combes and inland valleys.  Former deer parks and conifer plantations are features of the lower slopes.

Edited_KeyChars:
Ancient oak-dominated woodland in steep coastal combes and inland valleys
Beech windbreaks (many outgrown hedgerows) on moorland plateau fringes
Alders and willows fringe river banks defining the course of rivers
Estates with field trees (and associated parkland) on lower slopes
Orchards a traditional features adjacent to farmsteads


FG KeyChar:
•	Permanent grassland characterises the floodplain with arable, pasture, market gardening and orchards in the vales and pasture and arable on more undulating land.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	Permanent grassland characterises the floodplain with arable, pasture, market gardening and orchards in the vales and pasture and arable on more undulating land.


FG KeyChar:
•	Red sandstone buildings and perpendicular church towers of Triassic sandstone are prominent features in the landscape.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	Red sandstone buildings and perpendicular church towers of Triassic sandstone are prominent features in the landscape.


JM KeyChar:
•	The land ends in low cliffs, mainly in Blue Lias, which locally is folded and faulted, creating interesting exposed rock formations on the beaches.


FG KeyChar:
•	The River Tone and its tributaries drains the area to the south, whilst to the north Doniford Stream fed by tributaries arising from the Quantocks and Brendon Hill, drains into the sea at Watchet.  To the east many streams drain off the Quantock dip slopes and flow into the River Parrett.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	The River Tone and its tributaries drains the area to the south, whilst to the north Doniford Stream fed by tributaries arising from the Quantocks and Brendon Hill, drains into the sea at Watchet.  To the east many streams drain off the Quantock dip slopes and flow into the River Parrett.


FG KeyChar:
•	Woodland cover is generally low, although there are many hedgerow trees.
•	Whilst some fields systems were enclosed from the Medieval period, common pastures on the edge of the Vale and on the floodplains were enclosed during the 18th and 19th Century.
•	The thick hedgerows (and hedgebanks on higher ground) are species rich usually dominated by hazel with a mix of other woody species such as dogwood, holly and blackthorn.  The hedgerows were also managed as a source of wood.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	Woodland cover is generally low, although there are many hedgerow trees.
•	Whilst some fields systems were enclosed from the Medieval period, common pastures on the edge of the Vale and on the floodplains were enclosed during the 18th and 19th Century.
•	The thick hedgerows (and hedgebanks on higher ground) are species rich usually dominated by hazel with a mix of other woody species such as dogwood, holly and blackthorn.  The hedgerows were also managed as a source of wood.


FG KeyChar:
•	The topography can be divided into four distinct areas: the floodplain, a gentle low vale, underlain by mudstones and clay, a more elevated, undulating vale underlain by sandstones and mudstones and the open windswept coast with low cliffs to the north.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	The topography can be divided into four distinct areas: the floodplain, a gentle low vale, underlain by mudstones and clay, a more elevated, undulating vale underlain by sandstones and mudstones and the open windswept coast with low cliffs to the north.


FG KeyChar:
•	Whilst some fields systems were enclosed from the Medieval period, common pastures on the edge of the Vale and on the floodplains were enclosed during the 18th and 19th Century.
•	A number of Iron Age hillforts are located on higher ground.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	Whilst some fields systems were enclosed from the Medieval period, common pastures on the edge of the Vale and on the floodplains were enclosed during the 18th and 19th Century.
•	A number of Iron Age hillforts are located on higher ground.


FG KeyChar:
•	The area is densely settled with a dispersed pattern of hamlets and farms linked by winding lanes.
•	The main settlements which include Wellington, Taunton, the western edge of Bridgwater and Minehead have a strong visual influence on landscape character.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	The area is densely settled with a dispersed pattern of hamlets and farms linked by winding lanes.
•	The main settlements which include Wellington, Taunton, the western edge of Bridgwater and Minehead have a strong visual influence on landscape character.


FG KeyChar:
•	Woodland cover is generally low, although there are many hedgerow trees.
•	The area was once characterised by cider apple orchards, supporting the local cider industry.  The few old orchards that have survived are scattered thorough the landscape.  Modern bush orchards do not have the same visual impact as the older orchards.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	Woodland cover is generally low, although there are many hedgerow trees.
•	The area was once characterised by cider apple orchards, supporting the local cider industry.  The few old orchards that have survived are scattered thorough the landscape.  Modern bush orchards do not have the same visual impact as the older orchards.


FG KeyChar:
•	Although low intensity mixed livestock farming dominates the Character Area there has been an increase in arable farmland on lower valley sides and floors.

Edited_KeyChars:
Low intensity mixed livestock farming dominates
Increase in arable farmland on lower valley sides and floors
Much lifestyle farming


FG KeyChar:
•	Traditional buildings are constructed in chert, cob, flint or brick roofed in thatch, tile or slate, while older buildings in coastal locations are colour washed.

Edited_KeyChars:
Traditional buildings in chert, cob, flint or brick roofed in thatch, tile or slate
Older buildings in coastal locations colour washed


FG KeyChar:
•	To the south the coastline is defined by unstable cliffs, irregular headlands and estuaries.

Edited_KeyChars:
Unstable cliffs, irregular headlands and estuaries
Extensive coastal salt marshes at mouth of Axe


FG KeyChar:
•	A complex pattern of rivers  -  the Axe, Sid, Otter and Yarty - flows southward whilst the Fivehead River flows to the north east.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	A complex pattern of rivers  -  the Axe, Sid, Otter and Yarty - flows southward whilst the Fivehead River flows to the north east.


FG KeyChar:
•	Field boundaries throughout the area are defined by either hedgerows or hedgebanks.
•	A strong rectilinear pattern of 18th Century enclosure and straight roads characterises the plateau which contrasts with the small-scale Medieval enclosures of the slopes and vale bottoms.

Edited_KeyChars:
Hedgerows or hedgebanks throughout often with associated ditches on poorly drained soils
Strong rectilinear pattern of 18th century enclosure on plateau
Small medieval enclosures on slopes and vale bottoms


FG KeyChar:
•	Whilst the Upper Greensand of the upper plateaus and ridges gives rise to poor, slightly acidic soil, the river valleys consist of fine loams and silts.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	Whilst the Upper Greensand of the upper plateaus and ridges gives rise to poor, slightly acidic soil, the river valleys consist of fine loams and silts.


FG KeyChar:
•	A strong rectilinear pattern of 18th Century enclosure and straight roads characterises the plateau which contrasts with the small-scale Medieval enclosures of the slopes and vale bottoms.
•	Bronze Age barrows are found predominately between Gittisham Hill and Black Down with Iron Age Hill forts both on the coast and inland including, Castle Neroche.

Edited_KeyChars:
Bronze Age barrows and Iron Age Hillforts both on the coast and inland including Castle Neroche
Remnant areas of parkland associated with larger estates
Small water features a common feature in this often ill-drained landscape


FG KeyChar:
•	A mosaic of lowland and wet heathland, neutral/acidic and species rich grassland, wet and ancient oak ash woodland, are characteristic of the area with extensive coastal salt marshes in the Axe floodplain.

Edited_KeyChars:
Lowland and wet heathland vulnerable to loss
Remnant areas of  neutral/acidic and species-rich grassland


FG KeyChar:
•	Settlement on higher ground is sparse with farm buildings following straight enclosure roads.  Elsewhere settlements lie mainly along the spring lines at the foot of escarpments or at river crossing points.
•	The Character Area includes the towns of Honiton, Chard, Axminster and the coastal towns of Lyme Regis, Seaton and Sidmouth.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	Settlement on higher ground is sparse with farm buildings following straight enclosure roads.  Elsewhere settlements lie mainly along the spring lines at the foot of escarpments or at river crossing points.
•	The Character Area includes the towns of Honiton, Chard, Axminster and the coastal towns of Lyme Regis, Seaton and Sidmouth.


FG KeyChar:
•	The dramatic open, heathy windswept scarp slopes and plateaus up to 300m AD in the north fall southwards to sheltered lush valleys and ridges.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	The dramatic open, heathy windswept scarp slopes and plateaus up to 300m AD in the north fall southwards to sheltered lush valleys and ridges.


FG KeyChar:
•	A well wooded appearance dominates the area, created by wooded scarp slopes, shelterbelts and avenues, and coniferous and deciduous plantations of beech, oak and pine, willow-dominated carr woodland on valley spring lines, and hedgerow trees and copses.
•	Traditional orchards were once a key characteristic of the southern half of the Character Area and remnants still remain.

Edited_KeyChars:
Wooded scarp slopes with ancient oak-ash woodland
Shelterbelts, copses, avenues, plantations of beech, oak, pine
Willow-dominated carr on valley spring lines
Mature hedgerow trees, often beech and scattered in-field trees largely of oak
Remnant traditional orchards in southern half of area


FG KeyChar:
•	Mixed farming predominates but as the land rises northwards to the Culm, pasture becomes more widespread and the Redland soils disappear.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	Mixed farming predominates but as the land rises northwards to the Culm, pasture becomes more widespread and the Redland soils disappear.


FG KeyChar:
•	Cob, red sandstone and thatch rural buildings are distinctive to the area.
•	Linhays – open-fronted animal shelters of timber frame or stone – are a feature.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	Cob, red sandstone and thatch rural buildings are distinctive to the area.
•	Linhays – open-fronted animal shelters of timber frame or stone – are a feature.


FG KeyChar:
•	Extensive urban development, coastal resorts, roads and railways are found on the lower valleys and coast.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	Extensive urban development, coastal resorts, roads and railways are found on the lower valleys and coast.


FG KeyChar:
•	Much of the area is characterised by winding sunken lanes, irregular field patterns and varied hedgebanks, often rich in wildflowers.
•	The lower floodplain and coastal landscapes, by contrast, have large, open arable fields and low-cut hedges.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	Much of the area is characterised by winding sunken lanes, irregular field patterns and varied hedgebanks, often rich in wildflowers.
•	The lower floodplain and coastal landscapes, by contrast, have large, open arable fields and low-cut hedges.


FG KeyChar:
•	Soils derived from red sandstone give this area its name.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	Soils derived from red sandstone give this area its name.


FG KeyChar:
•	Large parks and manor houses occur near the towns.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	Large parks and manor houses occur near the towns.


FG KeyChar:
•	The Exe and Teign estuaries have extensive reedbeds, saltmarshes and sand dunes.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	The Exe and Teign estuaries have extensive reedbeds, saltmarshes and sand dunes.


FG KeyChar:
•	Large parks and manor houses occur near the towns.
•	Settlement is mainly dispersed farmsteads and hamlets; villages are often of medieval origin and layout.
•	Extensive urban development, coastal resorts, roads and railways are found on the lower valleys and coast.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	Large parks and manor houses occur near the towns.
•	Settlement is mainly dispersed farmsteads and hamlets; villages are often of medieval origin and layout.
•	Extensive urban development, coastal resorts, roads and railways are found on the lower valleys and coast.


FG KeyChar:
•	Steep-sided valleys with wide floodplains cut through the hilly landscape, the hills gradually decreasing in height toward the coast.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	Steep-sided valleys with wide floodplains cut through the hilly landscape, the hills gradually decreasing in height toward the coast.


FG KeyChar:
•	Large woodlands are confined mainly to the steep valley sides.
•	Elsewhere, particularly in the upper valleys, small, irregular, broadleaved woodlands and copses may give a strong sense of enclosure.
•	East of the Exe the land rises to dry, open heathland with gorse, scattered pine, wind-trimmed beech and wooded ridges.
•	West of the Exe the conifer plantations and heathland of the Haldon Hills rise high above the valleys.
•	In the lower valleys there are open flood meadows with little tree cover.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	Large woodlands are confined mainly to the steep valley sides.
•	Elsewhere, particularly in the upper valleys, small, irregular, broadleaved woodlands and copses may give a strong sense of enclosure.
•	East of the Exe the land rises to dry, open heathland with gorse, scattered pine, wind-trimmed beech and wooded ridges.
•	West of the Exe the conifer plantations and heathland of the Haldon Hills rise high above the valleys.
•	In the lower valleys there are open flood meadows with little tree cover.


FG KeyChar:
•	Pasture (dairying, beef cattle (traditionally including Devon Reds) and sheep) is the dominant land use and there are significant areas of semi-natural vegetation.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	Pasture (dairying, beef cattle (traditionally including Devon Reds) and sheep) is the dominant land use and there are significant areas of semi-natural vegetation.


FG KeyChar:
•	Rural buildings are traditionally of cob and thatch or slate.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	Rural buildings are traditionally of cob and thatch or slate.


JM KeyChar:
•	There is a wide range of coastal landscape features, ranging from beach and estuarine features in the north near Barnstaple, through high wooded cliffs and combes around Clovelly, to rugged, rocky, exposed Atlantic coastal cliffs in the west.


FG KeyChar:
•	Main roads tend to follow ridges and have wide verges.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	Main roads tend to follow ridges and have wide verges.


FG KeyChar:
•	Ridges are separated by an intricate pattern of incised valleys forming the catchments of the rivers Taw, Mole, Torridge and the upper reaches of the Tavy.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	Ridges are separated by an intricate pattern of incised valleys forming the catchments of the rivers Taw, Mole, Torridge and the upper reaches of the Tavy.


FG KeyChar:
•	Ridgetop fields are generally large and regular, representing parliamentary enclosures, with low hedgerows and hedgebanks that reveal long views.
•	By contrast, valley sides have winding sunken lanes, irregular older fields, and earth hedgebanks of mixed species.
•	There is a mosaic of improved and unimproved grassland.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	Ridgetop fields are generally large and regular, representing parliamentary enclosures, with low hedgerows and hedgebanks that reveal long views.
•	By contrast, valley sides have winding sunken lanes, irregular older fields, and earth hedgebanks of mixed species.
•	There is a mosaic of improved and unimproved grassland.


FG KeyChar:
•	Culm Measures give rise to heavy, infertile soils on the hilltops and valley bottoms; some valley sides have more fertile and better-drained soils.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	Culm Measures give rise to heavy, infertile soils on the hilltops and valley bottoms; some valley sides have more fertile and better-drained soils.


FG KeyChar:
•	Clusters of Bronze Age barrows are found on the ridgetops.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	Clusters of Bronze Age barrows are found on the ridgetops.


FG KeyChar:
•	There is a mosaic of improved and unimproved grassland.
•	Culm grasslands occur on patches of common and unimproved land.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	There is a mosaic of improved and unimproved grassland.
•	Culm grasslands occur on patches of common and unimproved land.


FG KeyChar:
•	Small settlements are sited at river crossing points or in prominent hilltop locations.
•	Coastal resorts and development occur at Bideford, Westward Ho!, Clovelly and Bude and locally have a strong visual influence on landscape character.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	Small settlements are sited at river crossing points or in prominent hilltop locations.
•	Coastal resorts and development occur at Bideford, Westward Ho!, Clovelly and Bude and locally have a strong visual influence on landscape character.


FG KeyChar:
•	Spectacular cliffs and broad, rolling ridges up to around 200m AOD offer wide views across a remote landscape.
•	Ridges are separated by an intricate pattern of incised valleys forming the catchments of the rivers Taw, Mole, Torridge and the upper reaches of the Tavy.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	Spectacular cliffs and broad, rolling ridges up to around 200m AOD offer wide views across a remote landscape.
•	Ridges are separated by an intricate pattern of incised valleys forming the catchments of the rivers Taw, Mole, Torridge and the upper reaches of the Tavy.


FG KeyChar:
•	There are some substantial valley and coastal woodlands (oak, birch and rowan) and some large blocks of plantation woodland on the moors.
•	Otherwise there is little tree cover except wind-shaped hedgerow, in-field and farmstead trees (oak, ash and beech, the latter typically occurring on high ground).

Edited_KeyChars:
•	There are some substantial valley and coastal woodlands (oak, birch and rowan) and some large blocks of plantation woodland on the moors.
•	Otherwise there is little tree cover except wind-shaped hedgerow, in-field and farmstead trees (oak, ash and beech, the latter typically occurring on high ground).


FG KeyChar:
•	Most of the open moor is common land that has long been used for extensive grazing by cattle, sheep and ponies, moorland grazing rights being an important part of many hill farm enterprises.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	Most of the open moor is common land that has long been used for extensive grazing by cattle, sheep and ponies, moorland grazing rights being an important part of many hill farm enterprises.


FG KeyChar:
•	Granite and slate in cottages, farmhouses, villages, abandoned mine buildings and walls unify the landscape.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	Granite and slate in cottages, farmhouses, villages, abandoned mine buildings and walls unify the landscape.


FG KeyChar:
•	A network of ancient roads, sunken lanes and hump-backed bridges connects the moor to the villages and towns beyond its outer edge.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	A network of ancient roads, sunken lanes and hump-backed bridges connects the moor to the villages and towns beyond its outer edge.


FG KeyChar:
•	Around the moorland lies a gentler landscape of small, irregular pasture fields with dry stone walls and high banks.
•	There are also extensive rectilinear field patterns originating from the expansion of ‘newtakes’ in the 19th century, some of which are now reverting to moorland.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	Around the moorland lies a gentler landscape of small, irregular pasture fields with dry stone walls and high banks.
•	There are also extensive rectilinear field patterns originating from the expansion of ‘newtakes’ in the 19th century, some of which are now reverting to moorland.


FG KeyChar:
•	Dartmoor is underlain by a large granite batholith with an aureole of metamorphic rocks including tin, copper and china clay bearing deposits.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	Dartmoor is underlain by a large granite batholith with an aureole of metamorphic rocks including tin, copper and china clay bearing deposits.


FG KeyChar:
•	There are also extensive rectilinear field patterns originating from the expansion of ‘newtakes’ in the 19th century, some of which are now reverting to moorland.
•	There is very high historic interest from Bronze Age onwards, with many visible features including hut circles, standing stones, reaves, field systems and hillforts.
•	The mining industry has made as strong impact on the landscape, with dramatically sited spoil heaps and ruins.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	There are also extensive rectilinear field patterns originating from the expansion of ‘newtakes’ in the 19th century, some of which are now reverting to moorland.
•	There is very high historic interest from Bronze Age onwards, with many visible features including hut circles, standing stones, reaves, field systems and hillforts.
•	The mining industry has made as strong impact on the landscape, with dramatically sited spoil heaps and ruins.


FG KeyChar:
•	The high, exposed core of Dartmoor is an irregular moorland plateau with blanket bogs and mires, surrounded by areas of heathland and grass moor with dramatic tors, clitters and broken rock.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	The high, exposed core of Dartmoor is an irregular moorland plateau with blanket bogs and mires, surrounded by areas of heathland and grass moor with dramatic tors, clitters and broken rock.


FG KeyChar:
•	The area has important and distinctive landscape features, notably its peri-glacial landforms, blanket bog, archaeology and traditional land management system.
•	The open, windswept moors, with wide views and stunted trees, contrast with sheltered, wooded, terraced landscapes in the valleys and fringes.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	The area has important and distinctive landscape features, notably its peri-glacial landforms, blanket bog, archaeology and traditional land management system.
•	The open, windswept moors, with wide views and stunted trees, contrast with sheltered, wooded, terraced landscapes in the valleys and fringes.


FG KeyChar:
•	There are many ancient upland oak woods, and also scattered forestry plantations.
•	Woodland is more extensive on the eastern than the western slopes of the area.
•	Clumps of sycamore and beech shelter farmsteads on the moorland edge.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	There are many ancient upland oak woods, and also scattered forestry plantations.
•	Woodland is more extensive on the eastern than the western slopes of the area.
•	Clumps of sycamore and beech shelter farmsteads on the moorland edge.


FG KeyChar:
•	The area is characterised by mixed farming, red soils appearing when ploughed.
•	Orchards and market gardening are distinctive, particularly in the Tamar valley.

Edited_KeyChars:
Mixed farming, red soils appearing when ploughed
Market gardening  distinctive, particularly in Tamar valley
Floodplains with wet meadows


FG KeyChar:
•	Sunken lanes link farms and hamlets with cob, stone, slate and thatched buildings.

Edited_KeyChars:
Farms and hamlets of cob, stone, slate and thatch


FG KeyChar:
•	There is a diverse and complex coastline with fine scenery and views.

Edited_KeyChars:
Large expanses of tidal water, saltmarsh and mudflats extending far inland along the ria estuaries 
Spectacular sandstone, slate and limestone cliffs and long sandy beaches
Sand dunes (as at Bigbury) and vegetated shingle as at Slapton Sands


FG KeyChar:
•	Rivers rising on Dartmoor cut through the plateau, with narrow rias at the coast.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	Rivers rising on Dartmoor cut through the plateau, with narrow rias at the coast.


FG KeyChar:
•	A network of wildflower-rich, often treeless and closely trimmed Devon banks separates the patchwork of fields.
•	Larger fields occur on higher, flatter land and smaller fields on the valley sides; field patterns are generally irregular.

Edited_KeyChars:
Wildflower-rich, often treeless, closely trimmed Devon banks (often with stone-facing)
Larger fields on higher, flatter land
Smaller fields on the valley sides
Field patterns generally irregular


FG KeyChar:
•	Ball clay extraction in the Bovey basin gives rise to a distinctive local landscape.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	Ball clay extraction in the Bovey basin gives rise to a distinctive local landscape.


FG KeyChar:
•	There is a wealth of archaeological remains including prehistoric field systems, drovers’ tracks and ridgeways, burial mounds, earthworks, and Iron Age hillforts.

Edited_KeyChars:
Wealth of archaeological remains including prehistoric field systems, drovers’ tracks and ridgeways, burial mounds, earthworks, and Iron Age hillforts
In Tamar valley strong associations with mining industries
Small parklands scattered across the landscape


FG KeyChar:
•	At its northern edge, the area merges with the mainly pastoral Dartmoor fringe, where patches of heathland are present.
•	Wider valleys, such as the Dart, have floodplain pasture, marsh, willow and alder.
•	There are large expanses of tidal water, saltmarsh and mudflats extending far inland, spectacular sandstone, slate and limestone cliffs, and long sandy beaches.

Edited_KeyChars:
Patches of moorland/heathland along the Dartmoor fringe in the north
clifftop coastal heathland in the south
Floodplain pasture and marsh / fen in wider valleys, such as the Dart
Remnant pockets of semi-natural grasslands


FG KeyChar:
•	Isolated out barns in open fields are characteristic of the area.
•	Villages are sited in sheltered valley locations; towns at ria heads or mouths.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	Isolated out barns in open fields are characteristic of the area.
•	Villages are sited in sheltered valley locations; towns at ria heads or mouths.


FG KeyChar:
•	Landform is a much-dissected plateau where steep valleys separate intricate but smooth rounded hills.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	Landform is a much-dissected plateau where steep valleys separate intricate but smooth rounded hills.


FG KeyChar:
•	The steep slopes of the upper valleys and rias are heavily wooded, principally with oak, woodland often extending right down to the water’s edge.
•	Clumps of Monterey pine are distinctive in coastal areas such as Torbay.

Edited_KeyChars:
Steep slopes of upper valleys and rias heavily wooded mainly with oak - woodland down to the water's edge
Distinctive coastal clumps of Monterey pine and holm oak eg near Torbay
Field trees associated with areas of estate planting
Floodplain willow and alder
Orchards a distinct feature of the Tamar valley and around individual farmsteads


FG KeyChar:
•	Land use is mixed – mainly pasture and arable but with important localised areas of horticulture.

Edited_KeyChars:
Mixed land use – mainly pasture (largely improved) and arable
Important localised areas of horticulture
Areas of wet pasture in valleys and rough grassland and improved rough grazing  on higher ground


FG KeyChar:
•	Traditional buildings are of slate and granite, often whitewashed and with slate roofs.

Edited_KeyChars:
Traditional buildings of slate and granite


FG KeyChar:
•	This is surrounded by a rugged coastline - exposed and windwept to the north with steep cliffs providing a backdrop to huge sweeping sandy beaches exposed at low water and often backed by dramatic sand dune systems.  
•	By contrast, the south coast is more sheltered with numerous small sandy coves huddled between cliff promontories and more major headlands.
•	The traditional settlement pattern is of scattered farmsteads and hamlets.  Modern buildings are often out of keeping with the local vernacular.  Coastal settlements such as Newquay are expanding as tourist centres, often extending onto the higher ground around the sheltered coves, increasing their adverse visual impact.

Edited_KeyChars:
Steep, rugged cliffs providing backdrop to huge sweeping sandy beaches and sand dune systems
More sheltered south coast with small sandy coves between cliff promontories and more major headlands
Small areas of salt marsh associated with the estuaries


FG KeyChar:
•	On the north coast short, deeply-etched valleys cut through to the sea, often with streams spilling over the cliffs as waterfalls.  
•	Conversely, along the south coast, the slow geological sinking of the coastline has resulted in a landscape of drowned valleys (rias) with wide estuaries and ‘inland seas’ set within wood-clad valley sides and a concentration of designed parklands.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	On the north coast short, deeply-etched valleys cut through to the sea, often with streams spilling over the cliffs as waterfalls.  
•	Conversely, along the south coast, the slow geological sinking of the coastline has resulted in a landscape of drowned valleys (rias) with wide estuaries and ‘inland seas’ set within wood-clad valley sides and a concentration of designed parklands.


FG KeyChar:
•	Within the landscape are varying field patterns, both ancient and as a result of 17th and 18th Century enclosure, largely bounded by Cornish hedges  or hedgerows.

Edited_KeyChars:
Varying field patterns, both ancient and as a result of 17th and 18th century enclosure
Small-scale Medieval field enclosures in valleys and inland away from the main plateau areas
Large rectilinear fields on  plateau tops and along the coast 
Fields largely bounded by Cornish hedges often largely devoid of shrub cover on the coast and in windswept plateau areas
Broad overgrown hedges on valley sides


FG KeyChar:
•	A gently undulating slate plateau forms the ‘backbone’ of the area, dipping gently to the south with its highest point close to the north coast.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	A gently undulating slate plateau forms the ‘backbone’ of the area, dipping gently to the south with its highest point close to the north coast.


FG KeyChar:
•	Within the landscape are varying field patterns, both ancient and as a result of 17th and 18th Century enclosure, largely bounded by Cornish hedges  or hedgerows.
•	The area has important archaeological and industrial-archaeological sites, including the well-preserved remains of prehistoric castles, and relics of the china clay, tin and copper industries.

Edited_KeyChars:
Historic field patterns
Important  industrial archaeology, including relics of china clay, tin and copper industries (part of the Cornish Mining World Heritage Site)
Numerous prehistoric and Medieval earthworks form subtle features in the landscape  
Important parks and gardens, especially around southern rias


FG KeyChar:
•	Open grasses and heath line the coastline in fragmented sections.  There are also areas of heath and scrub on the open plateau, with hedgebanks often taking on a heathy character which significantly extends the visual influence of this vegetation type.

Edited_KeyChars:
Open grasses and coastal heath with siginificant areas of wind-prunned scrub in fragmented sections
Areas of heath and scrub on open plateau
Extensive areas of grassy marshes, wet heath and willow woodland in shallow valleys
important wetland habitats (primarily reed beds) where  upper reaches of estuaries have silted


FG KeyChar:
•	The traditional settlement pattern is of scattered farmsteads and hamlets.  Modern buildings are often out of keeping with the local vernacular.  Coastal settlements such as Newquay are expanding as tourist centres, often extending onto the higher ground around the sheltered coves, increasing their adverse visual impact.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	The traditional settlement pattern is of scattered farmsteads and hamlets.  Modern buildings are often out of keeping with the local vernacular.  Coastal settlements such as Newquay are expanding as tourist centres, often extending onto the higher ground around the sheltered coves, increasing their adverse visual impact.


FG KeyChar:
•	There are numerous broadleaved wooded valleys throughout the area, varying greatly in size.  There is limited tree cover on the exposed plateau and cliff tops.

Edited_KeyChars:
Numerous (often ancient) broadleaved woodlands in valleys, especially fringing estuaries 
Limited tree cover on exposed plateau and cliff tops
Hedgerow trees scattered throughout the agricultural landscape in some parts of this NCA, as in the Fowey Ria
Traditional orchards clustered around farmsteads


FG KeyChar:
•	Common grazing of the moor by sheep, cattle and ponies is widespread, while some areas suffer from overgrazing, others are undergrazed.
•	Pasture dominates the enclosed land, some of which has been improved and contrasts with surrounding areas.  Beef and cattle have substituted for dairy farming.

Edited_KeyChars:
Common grazing of moor by sheep, cattle and ponies
Enclosed land mainly pasture and rush pasture, some improved (beef and dairy farming)


FG KeyChar:
•	Many older buildings are constructed in granite, with granite roofs and some slate hangings.  Other important features include clapper bridges, crosses, standing stones and stone stiles.

Edited_KeyChars:
Older buildings in granite, with granite roofs and some slate hangings
Clapper bridges, crosses, standing stones and stone stiles distinctive characteristics


FG KeyChar:
•	The head waters of streams and rivers are characterised by shallow valleys but from the edge of the granite they form deep valleys with cascades and gorges.  
•	The area has a number of man-made reservoirs.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	The head waters of streams and rivers are characterised by shallow valleys but from the edge of the granite they form deep valleys with cascades and gorges.  
•	The area has a number of man-made reservoirs.


FG KeyChar:
•	There is an even proportion of open and ringfenced moorland created by farming hamlets in the medieval period and by small farms in the 18th and 19th Century.
•	There is a striking difference between the irregular shaped ancient enclosures and the regular pattern of parliamentary enclosures.

Edited_KeyChars:
Open and ringfenced moorland associated with medieval farming hamlets and small 18th and 19th century farms
Contrasting small irregular ancient enclosures on the moorland fringe and regular parliamentary enclosures
Marked by Cornish hedges often topped with little more than gorse


FG KeyChar:
•	Soils on the Moor are acidic, predominately gravely and peaty whilst those on the fringes are well drained acid brown earths capable of cultivation.
•	Slates, shales and ores created from the formation of the granite intrusion have resulted in extensive mineral workings, including tin mining, china clay extraction and granite quarries.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	Soils on the Moor are acidic, predominately gravely and peaty whilst those on the fringes are well drained acid brown earths capable of cultivation.
•	Slates, shales and ores created from the formation of the granite intrusion have resulted in extensive mineral workings, including tin mining, china clay extraction and granite quarries.


FG KeyChar:
•	There is an even proportion of open and ringfenced moorland created by farming hamlets in the medieval period and by small farms in the 18th and 19th Century.
•	The Moor has a high concentration of important historic features including the remains of abandoned Neolithic, Bronze Age and Medieval enclosures, settlements and relics of a ritual landscape.

Edited_KeyChars:
High concentration of important historic features including the remains of abandoned Neolithic, Bronze Age and Medieval enclosures, settlements and relics of a ritual landscape


FG KeyChar:
•	Distinctive habitats include wet heaths, dry grassland, valley bogs, crags, extensive areas of semi natural grassland and gorse scrub, as well as woodland and rivers.

Edited_KeyChars:
Extensive areas of acidic grassland and gorse scrub on the open moor with some areas  suffering from overgrazing, others undergrazed
Valley bottoms with a mosaic of wet heath, valley mire, acid grassland and willow carr
Localised traditional hay meadows


FG KeyChar:
•	Settlements on the sparsely populated open moorland are linked by open, unenclosed tracks, whilst villages, hamlets and farmsteads of recent, industrial origin tend to lie on the moorland fringes and valleys linked by winding, sunken lanes.  Farming patterns, overlaid by miners’ small holdings account for the dispersed and complex pattern of settlement and piecemeal enclosure.
•	Other prominent features are the disused aerodrome at Davdistow and a windfarm at Cold Northcott near St Clether.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	Settlements on the sparsely populated open moorland are linked by open, unenclosed tracks, whilst villages, hamlets and farmsteads of recent, industrial origin tend to lie on the moorland fringes and valleys linked by winding, sunken lanes.  Farming patterns, overlaid by miners’ small holdings account for the dispersed and complex pattern of settlement and piecemeal enclosure.
•	Other prominent features are the disused aerodrome at Davdistow and a windfarm at Cold Northcott near St Clether.


FG KeyChar:
•	Bodmin Moor is an irregular granite plateau with poor surface drainage, cut by rivers and surrounded by a softer more settled landscape.  Rising from the plateau are high rocky tors and clitter slopes such as Brown Willy at 420 AD.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	Bodmin Moor is an irregular granite plateau with poor surface drainage, cut by rivers and surrounded by a softer more settled landscape.  Rising from the plateau are high rocky tors and clitter slopes such as Brown Willy at 420 AD.


FG KeyChar:
•	While the exposed uplands are treeless, the valleys and moorland edge offers shelter to deciduous woodlands, some of ancient origin.  There are also small copses and shelterbelts around farmsteads.
•	There are large coniferous plantations on higher land.

Edited_KeyChars:
Treeless exposed uplands
Deciduous woodlands, some of ancient origin, around moorland edge and in valleys including some ancient oak coppice on valley sides
18th and 19th Century deciduous plantations in the north east
Small copses and shelterbelts around farmsteads


FG KeyChar:
•	Small enclosures within the moorlands and around their edges contain pasture or rough grassland while pasture dominates within the valleys. Arable cultivation and market gardening is confined to a few sheltered spots.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	Small enclosures within the moorlands and around their edges contain pasture or rough grassland while pasture dominates within the valleys. Arable cultivation and market gardening is confined to a few sheltered spots.


FG KeyChar:
•	Older buildings are almost universally built of granite with slate roofs and some have slate hanging.  On the more sheltered sites and better land, modern farm buildings tend to dominate.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	Older buildings are almost universally built of granite with slate roofs and some have slate hanging.  On the more sheltered sites and better land, modern farm buildings tend to dominate.


FG KeyChar:
•	Along its southern boundary is a rugged coastline with sandy beaches.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	Along its southern boundary is a rugged coastline with sandy beaches.


FG KeyChar:
•	Water contributes significantly to the character of the area, with the white china clay wastelands enhanced by the turquoise or green waters of flooded clay pits.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	Water contributes significantly to the character of the area, with the white china clay wastelands enhanced by the turquoise or green waters of flooded clay pits.


FG KeyChar:
•	Off the high ground, irregular fields, enclosed by Cornish hedges , stone walls and hedgerows, lie in complex patterns while, in places, old field systems have been enlarged, and are more regular in shape.
•	The hedgebanks are largely treeless but on lower more sheltered ground trees become more common, while sheltered valleys contain a wide variety of scrub and woodland.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	Off the high ground, irregular fields, enclosed by Cornish hedges , stone walls and hedgerows, lie in complex patterns while, in places, old field systems have been enlarged, and are more regular in shape.
•	The hedgebanks are largely treeless but on lower more sheltered ground trees become more common, while sheltered valleys contain a wide variety of scrub and woodland.


FG KeyChar:
•	Pylons, electricity lines and a variety of industrial works feature strongly in the landscape.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	Pylons, electricity lines and a variety of industrial works feature strongly in the landscape.


FG KeyChar:
•	The central uplands mainly consists of a mixture of dry and wet heath.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	The central uplands mainly consists of a mixture of dry and wet heath.


FG KeyChar:
•	The traditionally dispersed settlement pattern has been augmented by roadside development and the enlargement of hamlets and small villages.  The Eden Project, a major tourist attraction, is located on the southern fringes of the Character Area.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	The traditionally dispersed settlement pattern has been augmented by roadside development and the enlargement of hamlets and small villages.  The Eden Project, a major tourist attraction, is located on the southern fringes of the Character Area.


FG KeyChar:
•	This is a unique landscape of china clay extraction, where a lunar landscape of flat-topped and older conical waste heaps and flooded pits dominate, surrounded by remnants of once extensive and exposed, windswept, heather moorland.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	This is a unique landscape of china clay extraction, where a lunar landscape of flat-topped and older conical waste heaps and flooded pits dominate, surrounded by remnants of once extensive and exposed, windswept, heather moorland.


FG KeyChar:
•	Trees have also been planted as clumps and shelterbelts around farmsteads.
•	The hedgebanks are largely treeless but on lower more sheltered ground trees become more common, while sheltered valleys contain a wide variety of scrub and woodland.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	Trees have also been planted as clumps and shelterbelts around farmsteads.
•	The hedgebanks are largely treeless but on lower more sheltered ground trees become more common, while sheltered valleys contain a wide variety of scrub and woodland.


FG KeyChar:
•	Small enclosures within the moorlands and around their edges contain poor quality pasture or rough grassland supporting dairy farming.  There is some horticultural land on the gentler more fertile lower slopes.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	Small enclosures within the moorlands and around their edges contain poor quality pasture or rough grassland supporting dairy farming.  There is some horticultural land on the gentler more fertile lower slopes.


FG KeyChar:
•	Older buildings are constructed of local granite with slate roofs and some slate hangwalls.  In the more fertile areas, modern farm buildings dominate.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	Older buildings are constructed of local granite with slate roofs and some slate hangwalls.  In the more fertile areas, modern farm buildings dominate.


FG KeyChar:
•	The traditional settlement pattern of dispersed hamlets and farmsteads on lower ground, is overlain by miners’ cottages and small mining villages.  This dispersed pattern has been augmented by recent developments, often out of keeping with the local vernacular style.  Settlements are linked by narrow, winding lanes, or straight lanes which follow field boundaries.  The main A394 crosses the area from Helston to Penryn, and the A39 bounds the area to the east.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	The traditional settlement pattern of dispersed hamlets and farmsteads on lower ground, is overlain by miners’ cottages and small mining villages.  This dispersed pattern has been augmented by recent developments, often out of keeping with the local vernacular style.  Settlements are linked by narrow, winding lanes, or straight lanes which follow field boundaries.  The main A394 crosses the area from Helston to Penryn, and the A39 bounds the area to the east.


FG KeyChar:
•	Stithians Reservoir and a number of smaller reservoirs are distinctive features in the landscape while the southern slopes of the area are drained by rivers and streams, forming long, gentle valleys.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	Stithians Reservoir and a number of smaller reservoirs are distinctive features in the landscape while the southern slopes of the area are drained by rivers and streams, forming long, gentle valleys.


FG KeyChar:
•	The central open moorland is surrounded by patterns of both irregular ancient fields and rectilinear 18th and 19th Century enclosures dominated by Cornish hedges  made from moorland boulders.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	The central open moorland is surrounded by patterns of both irregular ancient fields and rectilinear 18th and 19th Century enclosures dominated by Cornish hedges  made from moorland boulders.


FG KeyChar:
•	Soils are thin, acidic and poor reflecting the underlying geology.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	Soils are thin, acidic and poor reflecting the underlying geology.


FG KeyChar:
•	The central open moorland is surrounded by patterns of both irregular ancient fields and rectilinear 18th and 19th Century enclosures dominated by Cornish hedges  made from moorland boulders.
•	There is a Neolithic settlement at Carn Brea.  Granite walls, crosses, standing stones and stone stiles are other characteristic landscape features. Remnants of the 19th Century mining industry abound.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	The central open moorland is surrounded by patterns of both irregular ancient fields and rectilinear 18th and 19th Century enclosures dominated by Cornish hedges  made from moorland boulders.
•	There is a Neolithic settlement at Carn Brea.  Granite walls, crosses, standing stones and stone stiles are other characteristic landscape features. Remnants of the 19th Century mining industry abound.


FG KeyChar:
•	Moorland dominates the granite plateau with poor surface drainage resulting in boggy mires. The valleys, often marked by heaps of mining spoil, have abundant wetland carr scrub.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	Moorland dominates the granite plateau with poor surface drainage resulting in boggy mires. The valleys, often marked by heaps of mining spoil, have abundant wetland carr scrub.


FG KeyChar:
•	The area is dominated by bleak uplands with exposed granite outcrops offering long views over the surrounding open landscape.
•	Undulating landform dissected by small streams radiates from the highest points of granite.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	The area is dominated by bleak uplands with exposed granite outcrops offering long views over the surrounding open landscape.
•	Undulating landform dissected by small streams radiates from the highest points of granite.


FG KeyChar:
•	Trees and woodland are generally uncommon, reflecting the exposure and use of timber by the mining industry.  Wet willow woods are characteristic of the shallow valleys on higher ground while semi-natural deciduous woodlands occur on the deeper valley sides off the higher ground.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	Trees and woodland are generally uncommon, reflecting the exposure and use of timber by the mining industry.  Wet willow woods are characteristic of the shallow valleys on higher ground while semi-natural deciduous woodlands occur on the deeper valley sides off the higher ground.


FG KeyChar:
•	Pasture dominates land off the moorland and supports mixed farming, with dairying on the lower lying areas.  Market gardening has grown significantly in the last 20 years.

Edited_KeyChars:
Mainly improved pasture supporting mixed farming (dairying, beef, sheep)
Recent growith in market gardening (new potatos and bulb growing)
Local areas of rough and damp grazing in the valleys


FG KeyChar:
•	Older buildings are granite with slate roofs and some slate hung walls.  Modern farm buildings now dominate over the traditional farm buildings on the more sheltered and agriculturally productive land.

Edited_KeyChars:
Older buildings of granite with slate roofs and some slate hung walls
Along the north coast scattered granite farmsteads of prehistoric or early medieval origin
Traditional farm buildings falling out of use


FG KeyChar:
•	The coast is characterised by spectacular sea cliffs and coves, with coastal valleys.

Edited_KeyChars:
Spectacular sea cliffs and coves, with coastal valleys


FG KeyChar:
•	Minor roads, lanes and tracks form a complex irregular network over the landscape within a framework of more direct routes radiating out from Penzance.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	Minor roads, lanes and tracks form a complex irregular network over the landscape within a framework of more direct routes radiating out from Penzance.


FG KeyChar:
•	Streams wind through the higher ground and cut down sharply in their lower reaches.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	Streams wind through the higher ground and cut down sharply in their lower reaches.


FG KeyChar:
•	Off the moorland, the area is characterised by small or medium sized fields divided by hedgebanks or characteristic ancient Cornish hedges , many of ancient origin.

Edited_KeyChars:
Off the open moorland small or medium sized fields divided by hedgebanks or characteristic ancient Cornish hedges
Along the north coast a maze of thousands of prehistoric field enclosures of irregular shapes and small size, enclosed by a network of stone walls and massive Cornish hedges


FG KeyChar:
•	An exposed open windswept granite plateau forms the core of the area, with boulder strewn slopes and long views across the Atlantic and into the Cornish heartland.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	An exposed open windswept granite plateau forms the core of the area, with boulder strewn slopes and long views across the Atlantic and into the Cornish heartland.


FG KeyChar:
•	There is a high concentration of prehistoric monuments of international significance, well preserved remains of prehistoric settlements, and the remains of past industrial activities such as mining and quarrying.

Edited_KeyChars:
A high concentration of prehistoric monuments of international significance
Well-preserved remains of prehistoric settlements and evidence of ancient fortifications, such as Iron Age cliff castles 
Significant remains of industrial activities such as mining and quarrying


FG KeyChar:
•	The central plateau is dominated by unimproved grassland and moorland, with extensive coastal heathlands along cliff tops.

Edited_KeyChars:
Central plateau dominated by unimproved grassland and moorland / heathland
Wet heath and grassy marsh
Extensive coastal heathlands along cliff tops


FG KeyChar:
•	The traditional settlement pattern is of dispersed hamlets and farmsteads with villages of mainly recent industrial origin occupying the most sheltered sites.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	The traditional settlement pattern is of dispersed hamlets and farmsteads with villages of mainly recent industrial origin occupying the most sheltered sites.


FG KeyChar:
•	Woodlands are limited to the valleys, with scrub filled valleys on the coast.

Edited_KeyChars:
An open winswept plateau laregely devoid of trees and woodland
linear wooded valleys, with woodland cover increasing where the valleys deepen along the coast
Scrub filled valleys on the coast


FG KeyChar:
•	A mosaic of enclosed pasture with rough grazing fringes the plateau while more productive land is dominated by pasture, with some arable.

Edited_KeyChars:
Mosaic of enclosed pasture with rough grazing fringes plateau
More productive land dominated by pasture with some arable


FG KeyChar:
•	Traditional buildings are simple, constructed of local stone and thatch.
•	Tourism-led development around the coastline is often out of keeping with the local vernacular style.  The wind farm and BT Earth station on Goonhilly Down break up the skyline and are dominant features in an otherwise remote and wild landscape.

Edited_KeyChars:
Traditional buildings simple, constructed of local stone and thatch


FG KeyChar:
•	The surrounding coastline is rugged and geologically complex with caves, enclosed bays and skerries.

Edited_KeyChars:
Rugged and geologically complex coast with caves, enclosed bays,  skerries and sand dunes


Edited_KeyChars:
Large arable fields on thinner soils
Mixed farmland west of Peterborough
Wet floodplain pastures in river valleys


Edited_KeyChars:
Widespread use of local limestone for older buildings


Edited_KeyChars:
Variety of traditional buildings ranging from hunting lodges and estate villages to small thatched cottages


Edited_KeyChars:
Farmsteads, some of medieval origin, traditionally of flint, brick and clay tiles


Edited_KeyChars:
Areas of marsh and former grazing marsh largely devoid of buildings
Traditional farmsteads on higher gorund


Edited_KeyChars:
Minimal tree cover
Small valley woodlands in the west


Edited_KeyChars:
Medieval terraced arable strips survive in cultivation


Edited_KeyChars:
Rich archaeological resource of international importance on the Downs including prominent Iron Age hillforts and Bronze Age barrows running along the crest line
Drove roads and ancient routes along  downland tops
Highly characteristic designed parkland and major estates on the more wooded Western Downs


Edited_KeyChars:
Traditional unimproved wet pasture and grazing marsh
Reedbeds
Small remnants of species-rich grassland with hay cutting


Edited_KeyChars:
Localised areas of reedbed
Remnant mosses and fen carr - at risk from drainage
Remant species-rich meadows


Edited_KeyChars:
Mosses and meres
Heathland remnants on higher ground
Species-rich grassland in stream valleys


Edited_KeyChars:
Deeply indented coastline with creeks, islands and peninsulas
Broad tidal mudflats and sands
Coastal grazing marsh and saltmarsh with an intricate pattern of narrow creeks and runnels
Sea walls
Shingle banks e.g. Foulness Point, Colne Point and unvegetated foreshores


# xTbl_FG_JM_KeyCharsLC

FG KeyChar:
•	The area is mainly covered by improved pasture.  Arable farming is a feature of the valley floors.

Edited_KeyChars:
The area is mainly productive improved pasture.  Arable farming is a feature of the valley floors.


FG KeyChar:
•	Red sandstone is the distinctive building material which is used throughout the area, although there has also been localised use of limestone.

Edited_KeyChars:
Distinctive red sandstone buildings, also use of limestone.


FG KeyChar:
•	The River Eden and River Petterill run broadly north-south through the area.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	The River Eden and River Petterill run broadly north-south through the area.


FG KeyChar:
•	Predominant field boundaries are fences and walls, but there are also a significant proportion of hedges.

Edited_KeyChars:
Large rectangular fields mainly bounded by fences and drystone walls but also a significant amount of hedges with trees.


FG KeyChar:
•	Largely low lying ground between the Lake District Fells and the Pennine escarpment, with Permo-Triassic sandstones and mudstones. Soil in the valleys tends to be clay.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	Largely low lying ground between the Lake District Fells and the Pennine escarpment, with Permo-Triassic sandstones and mudstones. Soil in the valleys tends to be clay.


FG KeyChar:
•	Historic landscape features include Roman roads and the remains of Roman forts, and ruined castles associated with cross border strategic positions.

Edited_KeyChars:
Roman and medieval landscape features. Parkland and estate landscapes.


FG KeyChar:
•	Around 12% of the area is classed as semi natural, with lowland heath being the predominant natural land cover, and there are also mosaics of neutral grassland, heather and unimproved acid grassland in different parts of the area.

Edited_KeyChars:
Lowland heath is the main semi-natural habitat, with mosaics of moorland, neutral grassland, heather and unimproved acid grassland.


FG KeyChar:
•	The main towns in the area are Appleby-in-Westmorland and Penrith.  The Eden Valley has numerous attractive villages, including Langwathby, Temple Sowerby, Warcop and Great Musgrave.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	The main towns in the area are Appleby-in-Westmorland and Penrith.  The Eden Valley has numerous attractive villages, including Langwathby, Temple Sowerby, Warcop and Great Musgrave.


FG KeyChar:
•	Coniferous plantations and significant broadleaved and ancient woodlands are characteristic features.  Estate and farm woodlands, hedgerows, shelterbelts, hedgerow trees and small copses cover parts of the area.  There are also some hanging woodlands along the River Eden Corridor.

Edited_KeyChars:
Conifer plantations and ancient semi-natural broadleaved woodlands along gorge and river and in estates and parkland.


FG KeyChar:
•	The broad ridges of heather moorland and acid grassland that separate the principal dales in the north and east are managed for sheep and grouse.

Edited_KeyChars:
Mixed arable and pasture grazed by sheep. Unimproved rough grazing on upper slopes.


FG KeyChar:
•	Within the dales there are small villages and scattered farmsteads, mainly of local sandstone with stone slate or slate roofs, giving a strong vernacular character.
•	The whitewashed buildings of the Raby Estate in Teesdale are also distinctive.

Edited_KeyChars:
Buildings characterised by local sandstone with stone slate or slate roofs. Distinctive whitewashed buildings of the Raby Estate.


FG KeyChar:
•	Reservoirs are scattered throughout the dales and moorland margins.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	Reservoirs are scattered throughout the dales and moorland margins.


FG KeyChar:
•	The dales themselves provide sheltered pastures and hay meadows bounded by dry stone walls and hedgerows.

Edited_KeyChars:
Pastoral enclosures bounded by dry stone walls and hedgerows.


FG KeyChar:
•	Alternating limestones, sandstones and shales give a stepped profile to hills and dalesides.
•	Millstone Grits cap the higher fells and form distinctive flat-topped summits.
•	Igneous intrusions of the Great Whin Sill form dramatic outcrops and waterfalls.
•	The area is of international importance for its geological sites and features, including the Whin Sill, and has been identified as a European Geopark.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	Alternating limestones, sandstones and shales give a stepped profile to hills and dalesides.
•	Millstone Grits cap the higher fells and form distinctive flat-topped summits.
•	Igneous intrusions of the Great Whin Sill form dramatic outcrops and waterfalls.
•	The area is of international importance for its geological sites and features, including the Whin Sill, and has been identified as a European Geopark.


FG KeyChar:
•	In places the landscape is heavily scarred by mineral extraction, with many active and abandoned quarries and relics of widespread lead workings.

Edited_KeyChars:
Much relict evidence of mining and quarrying.


FG KeyChar:
•	There are important limestone grasslands, arctic-alpine flora and juniper scrub habitats in Teesdale and elsewhere.

Edited_KeyChars:
Important limestone grasslands, arctic-alpine flora and juniper scrub habitats. Broad ridges of heather moorland and acid grassland. High plateau of blanket bog. In valleys flower rich meadows.


FG KeyChar:
•	Within the dales there are small villages and scattered farmsteads, mainly of local sandstone with stone slate or slate roofs, giving a strong vernacular character.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	Within the dales there are small villages and scattered farmsteads, mainly of local sandstone with stone slate or slate roofs, giving a strong vernacular character.


FG KeyChar:
•	This is an upland landscape of high moorland ridges divided by broad pastoral dales; it shows slow change and cultural continuity.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	This is an upland landscape of high moorland ridges divided by broad pastoral dales; it shows slow change and cultural continuity.


FG KeyChar:
•	Tree cover is sparse with woodlands being restricted to river gorges, gills, streamsides and larger coniferous plantations on the moorland ridges.

Edited_KeyChars:
Spare tree cover, oak-ash woodlands restricted to gorges and watercourses. Large confierous plantations on moorland ridges.


FG KeyChar:
•	Farmland is pastoral in the west, merging to mixed and arable in the east.

Edited_KeyChars:
Pastoral in the west, merging to mixed and arable in the east. Semi-improved and rough grazing on elevated land.


FG KeyChar:
•	Vernacular buildings are generally of Millstone Grit and include scattered large farmsteads, sometimes with bastle and pele tower fortifications.


JM KeyChar:
•	The main Tyne valley is flat, open floodplain with some wetland areas associated with former gravel workings; the side valleys to north and south are incised with springs and waterfalls.


FG KeyChar:
•	There is a variety of enclosure patterns, with large, walled enclosures predominant in the west and hedged enclosures in the east.

Edited_KeyChars:
Large walled enclosures in the west and large hedged fields in the east.


FG KeyChar:
•	Bronze Age stone circles and cairns and Iron Age hillforts are common.
•	Very evident remains of the Roman wall, forts and associated features occur on the Whin Sill scarp.
•	There are many large country houses, often incorporating earlier medieval fortified structures and set in designed parklands.

Edited_KeyChars:
Extensive managed estate woodlands.  Important prehistoric, Roman and medieval remains, particularly Hadrian's Wall.


FG KeyChar:
•	North of the Whin Sill there is open, windswept semi-improved and rough grazing on elevated land, with loughs and rushy pastures.
•	This contrasts with the more fertile floodplain land along the South Tyne.

JM KeyChar:
•	Ancient, semi-natural riparian woodlands are common in the tributary valleys; while higher ground on the valley sides has grass moorland, wet pastures, loughs and mires.  In the North Tyne valley hay meadows and calcareous grassland also occur.

Edited_KeyChars:
High ground has grass moorland, wet pastures, loughs and mires. Calcareous grassland and hya meadows in the North Tyne valley.


FG KeyChar:
•	Settlements are located strategically along the valley, which is a significant transport route through the Pennines.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	Settlements are located strategically along the valley, which is a significant transport route through the Pennines.


FG KeyChar:
•	This is a narrow east-west lowland corridor that runs through a gap in the Pennine uplands, which are visible to north and south.
•	It is visually contained to the north by the parallel scarps of the Whin Sill.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	This is a narrow east-west lowland corridor that runs through a gap in the Pennine uplands, which are visible to north and south.
•	It is visually contained to the north by the parallel scarps of the Whin Sill.


FG KeyChar:
•	Broadleaved woodland and conifer plantations occur on the side slopes and in the intimate wooded valley of the North Tyne.

Edited_KeyChars:
Deciduous and mixed broadleaved woodland and conifer plantations occur on side slopes and in the valley of the North Tyne. Ancient, semi-natural riparian woodlands in tributary valleys. Extensive park and estate woodland. Hedgerow trees of ash and sycamore.


FG KeyChar:
•	Arable and cattle farming on the lower land merge into sheep farming on higher ground and moorland to the west.

Edited_KeyChars:
Arable and cattle farming on the lower land merge into sheep farming on higher ground to the west


FG KeyChar:
•	Traditional buildings are generally of sandstone, with gritstone at higher altitudes.

Edited_KeyChars:
Traditional buildings are generally of sandstone, with gritstone at higher altitudes.


FG KeyChar:
•	Large reservoirs and ornamental lakes provide distinctive areas of open water.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	Large reservoirs and ornamental lakes provide distinctive areas of open water.


FG KeyChar:
•	Most of the area has large rectilinear fields enclosed by stone walls or hedgerows.

Edited_KeyChars:
Most of the area has large rectilinear fields enclosed by stone walls or hedgerows.


FG KeyChar:
•	Sandstone and dolerite crags (the latter associated with the Whin Sill) form local landscape features.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	Sandstone and dolerite crags (the latter associated with the Whin Sill) form local landscape features.


FG KeyChar:
•	There are frequent country houses and fortified defensive structures, typically set in landscaped parklands.
•	The ancient market town of Morpeth serves a surrounding medieval pattern of small, nucleated villages.
•	Villages are often centred on greens and surrounded by extensive medieval ridge and furrow and earthworks.

Edited_KeyChars:
Frequent landscaped parklands and estates with extensive woodland. Large reserviors and ornamental lakes within parkland.


JM KeyChar:
•	Riparian woodlands (often ancient in origin) and wet pasture are key habitats, and species-rich pastures and meadows are found along the course of Hadrian’s Wall.

Edited_KeyChars:
Riparian woodlands (often ancient in origin) and wet pasture are key habitats, and species-rich pastures and meadows along the course of Hadrian’s Wall.


Edited_KeyChars:
•	There are frequent country houses and fortified defensive structures, typically set in landscaped parklands.
•	The ancient market town of Morpeth serves a surrounding medieval pattern of small, nucleated villages.
•	Villages are often centred on greens and surrounded by extensive medieval ridge and furrow and earthworks.


FG KeyChar:
•	This intermediate upland fringe plateau comprises a series of ridges and intimate river valleys in the north, opening out to a broader, flatter landscape in the south and east.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	This intermediate upland fringe plateau comprises a series of ridges and intimate river valleys in the north, opening out to a broader, flatter landscape in the south and east.


FG KeyChar:
•	The valleys of the rivers Font, Wansbeck and Coquet are well-wooded.
•	In addition, there are mixed and ornamental woodlands and parklands within the country estates.
•	Small coniferous blocks and belts of trees occur on the more open farmland to the south.

Edited_KeyChars:
Oak, ash and alder woodland along river valleys, with mixed ornamental woodland in parklands. Small coniferous blocks on farmland to the south.


FG KeyChar:
•	Permanent pasture and semi-natural grassland are typical of the valleys and coastal fringes; inland is an open, mixed and arable landscape, with intensive cereal, beef and sheep production.

Edited_KeyChars:
Mixed land use with some permanent pasture for beef and sheep production and some arable land with intensive cereal production.


FG KeyChar:
•	Traditional buildings are generally of sandstone with pantile or slate roofs.

Edited_KeyChars:
Traditional buildings are generally of sandstone with pantile or slate roofs.


FG KeyChar:
•	The coast and islands provide rich wildlife habitats, particularly for sea birds.
•	There are intertidal flats backed by saltmarsh with patches of coastal grazing marsh in the south.

Edited_KeyChars:
The coast and islands include coastal fringe grasslands, saltmarshes, intertidal mudflats and sand dunes with coastal heath and scrub,  provide a rich wildlife habitat for seabirds.


FG KeyChar:
•	The Aln, Coquet and Tweed, as well as smaller rivers, meander across the coastal plain to the sea.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	The Aln, Coquet and Tweed, as well as smaller rivers, meander across the coastal plain to the sea.


FG KeyChar:
•	Large rectilinear fields are enclosed by low-cut thorn hedges or fences, with sandstone walls in parts.

Edited_KeyChars:
Large rectilinear fields are enclosed by low-cut thorn hedges with few trees or fences with sandstone walls in parts.


FG KeyChar:
•	There is diverse coastal scenery dominated by high cliffs and offshore islands in the north, and by sweeping sandy bays and dunes in the south.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	There is diverse coastal scenery dominated by high cliffs and offshore islands in the north, and by sweeping sandy bays and dunes in the south.


FG KeyChar:
•	The area’s heritage reflects ecclesiastical influences and the need for border defence, including prominent medieval castles, fortifications and structures, and religious buildings, often forming outstanding coastal landmarks.

Edited_KeyChars:
Historical features include prominent medieval castles, fortifications and structures, and religious buildings. Complex early field systems.


FG KeyChar:
•	Permanent pasture and semi-natural grassland are typical of the valleys and coastal fringes; inland is an open, mixed and arable landscape, with intensive cereal, beef and sheep production.
•	On the Whin Sill intrusions are rare, semi-natural whinstone grasslands.

Edited_KeyChars:
Semi natural acid and neutral grassland and heath on coastal fringes, including rare whinstone grasslands. Saltmarshes, intertidal mudflats and sand dunes with coastal heath and scrub.


FG KeyChar:
•	Settlement comprises dispersed farmsteads, small nucleated villages, fishing villages and small coastal resort towns.
•	The area south-west of Berwick-Upon-Tweed is affected by whinstone quarrying and opencast coal mining.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	Settlement comprises dispersed farmsteads, small nucleated villages, fishing villages and small coastal resort towns.
•	The area south-west of Berwick-Upon-Tweed is affected by whinstone quarrying and opencast coal mining.


FG KeyChar:
•	This narrow, low-lying, windswept coastal plain has wide views east to the sea and west to the Cheviots, with striking views along the coast itself.
•	There is diverse coastal scenery dominated by high cliffs and offshore islands in the north, and by sweeping sandy bays and dunes in the south.
•	The Whin Sill intrusions produce dramatic landscape features, including the coastal cliffs at Bamburgh and the Farne Islands and distinctive inland outcrops.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	This narrow, low-lying, windswept coastal plain has wide views east to the sea and west to the Cheviots, with striking views along the coast itself.
•	There is diverse coastal scenery dominated by high cliffs and offshore islands in the north, and by sweeping sandy bays and dunes in the south.
•	The Whin Sill intrusions produce dramatic landscape features, including the coastal cliffs at Bamburgh and the Farne Islands and distinctive inland outcrops.


FG KeyChar:
•	Tree and woodland cover is generally limited to clumps near farmhouses and settlements, some river valley woodlands, and occasional shelterbelts and blocks of coniferous trees.
•	Some local areas are more wooded, for example around Craster.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	Tree and woodland cover is generally limited to clumps near farmhouses and settlements, some river valley woodlands, and occasional shelterbelts and blocks of coniferous trees (needs edit).


FG KeyChar:
•	Traditional buildings were of sandstone and thatch, later replaced by stone slates and Welsh slates.

Edited_KeyChars:
Traditional buildings were of sandstone and thatch, later replaced by stone slates and Welsh slates.


FG KeyChar:
•	Wet peaty flushes, mires, loughs and small reservoirs occur throughout the area.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	Wet peaty flushes, mires, loughs and small reservoirs occur throughout the area.


FG KeyChar:
•	Farmland comprises rectangular patterns of large open fields, bounded by drystone walls, dating from the time of the parliamentary enclosures.
•	However, blocks and belts of coniferous woodland often break up the patterns.
•	Varied moorland communities, dominated by heather and rough acid grassland mosaics, are found on the thin, sandy soils of the higher and steeper slopes.

Edited_KeyChars:
Large, open, rectangular fields bounded by drystone walls and occasionally broken up by coniferous woodland.


FG KeyChar:
•	These sandstone hills form distinctive skyline features with generally level tops, north-west facing scarps, and craggy outcrops with exceptional views.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	These sandstone hills form distinctive skyline features with generally level tops, north-west facing scarps, and craggy outcrops with exceptional views.


FG KeyChar:
•	The parkland settings of the large country mansions that fringe the lower fellside slopes, eg Chillingham, Cragside and Alnwick Castle, have distinctive ‘landscaped’ features and much semi-natural broadleaved woodland cover.
•	This is an important prehistoric archaeological landscape, with ‘cup and ring’ marked rocks, Bronze Age burial cists, earthwork remains of Iron Age hillfort systems, standing stones, enclosures and cairns.
•	Remains of deserted medieval villages and ridge and furrow cultivation are common, especially on land to the east and south of the main plateau area.

Edited_KeyChars:
Historic designated parkland landscapes with an abundance of semi-natural broadleaved woodland cover. Important prehistoric evidence.


Edited_KeyChars:
Varied moorland communities, dominated by heather and rough acid grassland mosaics on the higher and steeper slopes. Wet peaty flushes, mires, loughs and small reservoirs occur throughout the area.


FG KeyChar:
•	There are scattered farmsteads and small hamlets, served by the market towns of Alnwick and Rothbury.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	There are scattered farmsteads and small hamlets, served by the market towns of Alnwick and Rothbury.


FG KeyChar:
•	These sandstone hills form distinctive skyline features with generally level tops, north-west facing scarps, and craggy outcrops with exceptional views.
•	They are highest in the south, where they reach over 400m AOD.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	These sandstone hills form distinctive skyline features with generally level tops, north-west facing scarps, and craggy outcrops with exceptional views.
•	They are highest in the south, where they reach over 400m AOD.


FG KeyChar:
•	There is a transition from heather and grass moor on the higher ground, through scrub and woodland, to improved farmland and parkland on the lower slopes.
•	Extensive plantations of coniferous woodland occur in some areas.
•	Broadleaved woodland is associated with rivers and scarp slopes.
•	The parkland settings of the large country mansions that fringe the lower fellside slopes, eg Chillingham, Cragside and Alnwick Castle, have distinctive ‘landscaped’ features and much semi-natural broadleaved woodland cover.

Edited_KeyChars:
Some extensive plantations of coniferous woodland.
Broadleaved woodland associated with historic parkland and rivers and scarp slopes.


FG KeyChar:
•	The flatter, more open arable farmland to the north contrasts with the strong patchwork of mixed farmland, hedgerows and hedgerow trees within the vales.

Edited_KeyChars:
Predominantly flat, open, arable farmland, with limited rough grazing on the northern and eastern edges of the Cheviots. Mixed farmland in regular medium sized fields in the south.


FG KeyChar:
•	Traditional buildings are generally of sandstone or sandstone rubble with clay tile or stone slate roofs (formerly thatch, which survives in pockets such as at Etal).

Edited_KeyChars:
Traditional buildings are generally of sandstone or sandstone rubble with clay tile or stone slate roofs (formerly thatch)


FG KeyChar:
•	Other rivers and streams are often tree-lined and meander between raised terraces and flat gravel benches.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	Other rivers and streams are often tree-lined and meander between raised terraces and flat gravel benches.


FG KeyChar:
•	There is a rectilinear pattern of small coniferous woodland blocks and shelterbelts.

Edited_KeyChars:
Fields mainly large and medium sized, strong patchwork pattern in the vales. Contrast between hedgerows, fragmented and largely treeless in the north but with many trees in the southern vales.


FG KeyChar:
•	It has many features shaped by glaciation, including drumlin fields within the Tweed valley lowlands, extensive clay and sand deposits around Millfield, and moraines, eskers and kames within the undulating vales of Coquetdale and Whittingham Vale to the south.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	It has many features shaped by glaciation, including drumlin fields within the Tweed valley lowlands, extensive clay and sand deposits around Millfield, and moraines, eskers and kames within the undulating vales of Coquetdale and Whittingham Vale to the south.


FG KeyChar:
•	Fortified castles, ‘bastle houses’, ‘tower houses’ and other defensive structures are common.

Edited_KeyChars:
Fortified castles, ‘bastle houses’, ‘tower houses’ and other defensive structures are common.


JM KeyChar:
•	The River Tweed and its English tributaries form an outstanding example of a sandstone and limestone river.  There are also some areas of wet grassland (for example within the Millfield Plain) and fragments of broadleaved woodland on steep river banks.

Edited_KeyChars:
Outstanding example of a sandstone and limestone river. Areas of wet grassland.


FG KeyChar:
•	Small traditional villages are strategically sited at river bridging points and on the break of slope at the edge of the valley floor.
•	River Tweed has a mix of deciduous woodland and estate landscapes.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	Small traditional villages are strategically sited at river bridging points and on the break of slope at the edge of the valley floor.
•	River Tweed has a mix of deciduous woodland and estate landscapes.


FG KeyChar:
•	This tranquil, agricultural, valley and plain landscape drains northwards to the Tweed and eastwards to the North Sea.
•	It has many features shaped by glaciation, including drumlin fields within the Tweed valley lowlands, extensive clay and sand deposits around Millfield, and moraines, eskers and kames within the undulating vales of Coquetdale and Whittingham Vale to the south.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	This tranquil, agricultural, valley and plain landscape drains northwards to the Tweed and eastwards to the North Sea.
•	It has many features shaped by glaciation, including drumlin fields within the Tweed valley lowlands, extensive clay and sand deposits around Millfield, and moraines, eskers and kames within the undulating vales of Coquetdale and Whittingham Vale to the south.


FG KeyChar:
•	River Tweed has a mix of deciduous woodland and estate landscapes.
•	There is a rectilinear pattern of small coniferous woodland blocks and shelterbelts.

Edited_KeyChars:
Deciduous woodland along the River Tweed and small coniferous woodland blocks and shelterbelts.


FG KeyChar:
•	The lower, steeper slopes have a greener appearance indicative of more productive grassland, but show signs of bracken invasion.
•	The open moorland plateaux are managed as grouse moors and for grazing by distinctive white-faced Cheviot and black-faced Border sheep; there are also elusive wild goats.
•	Better quality grassland on the lower slopes is grazed by both beef cattle and sheep.

Edited_KeyChars:
Open moorland plateaux are managed as grouse moors and for grazing by distinctive white-faced Cheviot and black-faced Border sheep whilst the grassland on the lower slopes is grazed by cattle and sheep.


FG KeyChar:
•	Traditional buildings are commonly of sandstone and slate; but clay pantile roofs are a distinctive feature of the northern valleys.

Edited_KeyChars:
Traditional buildings are commonly of sandstone and slate; but clay pantile roofs are a distinctive feature of the northern valleys.


FG KeyChar:
•	There are no modern-day cross-border roads through the Cheviots, however, and this helps maintain a sense of isolation and wilderness.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	There are no modern-day cross-border roads through the Cheviots, however, and this helps maintain a sense of isolation and wilderness.


FG KeyChar:
•	The summit is characterised by mixed areas of blanket bog and heather and by the sculpted forms of granitic ‘tors’; the treeless upper hillsides have coarse ‘white’ grassland and heather moorland.
•	The lower, steeper slopes have a greener appearance indicative of more productive grassland, but show signs of bracken invasion.
•	The hills are largely open although the lower slopes have large regular fields defined by dry stone walls or ‘dykes’ dating from parliamentary enclosures.

Edited_KeyChars:
Large regular fields from 19th century enclosures bound by dry stone walls on the lower slopes. Hills mainly open.


FG KeyChar:
•	The valleys also provide sheltered sites for dispersed farmsteads and small hamlets on strategic sites, sometimes with medieval fortified buildings.
•	The well-preserved remains of extensive tracts of prehistoric landscape (hillforts, settlements and prehistoric field systems) can be clearly seen; the hills are also criss-crossed by ancient Roman tracks and border drove roads.

Edited_KeyChars:
Extensive prehistoric remains relating to defence, settlement and argiculture. Also ancient roman roads and medieval defence buildings.


FG KeyChar:
•	There are extensive rolling plateaux of semi-natural grass moor and heather moorland.
•	There are rare arctic-alpine flora on the scree slopes and species-rich semi-natural grasslands and wet flushes in the valleys eg the Coquet valley.

Edited_KeyChars:
Semi-natural grass moor and heather moorland. Rare arctic-alpine flora and species-rich grassland and wet flushes. On the summit, mixed areas of blanket bog and coarse grassland.


FG KeyChar:
•	The valleys also provide sheltered sites for dispersed farmsteads and small hamlets on strategic sites, sometimes with medieval fortified buildings.
•	There are no modern-day cross-border roads through the Cheviots, however, and this helps maintain a sense of isolation and wilderness.
•	Perceptions of remoteness and solitude are affected by military training, as the south-western part of the Character Area lies within the Otterburn Training Area.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	The valleys also provide sheltered sites for dispersed farmsteads and small hamlets on strategic sites, sometimes with medieval fortified buildings.
•	There are no modern-day cross-border roads through the Cheviots, however, and this helps maintain a sense of isolation and wilderness.
•	Perceptions of remoteness and solitude are affected by military training, as the south-western part of the Character Area lies within the Otterburn Training Area.


FG KeyChar:
•	This smooth, sinuous cluster of hills of volcanic origin rises to over 800m AOD and forms a wild, open, windswept landscape with broad moorland horizons.
•	There are extensive rolling plateaux of semi-natural grass moor and heather moorland.
•	On the northern flanks of the hills are deep ravines and rocky outcrops with dramatic scree slopes, glacial meltwater channels and ice-gouged hollows.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	This smooth, sinuous cluster of hills of volcanic origin rises to over 800m AOD and forms a wild, open, windswept landscape with broad moorland horizons.
•	There are extensive rolling plateaux of semi-natural grass moor and heather moorland.
•	On the northern flanks of the hills are deep ravines and rocky outcrops with dramatic scree slopes, glacial meltwater channels and ice-gouged hollows.


FG KeyChar:
•	Coniferous woodland plantations occur on some upper valley slopes where they tend to interrupt the smooth lines of an otherwise open, rounded landscape.
•	Steep-sided valleys with fast-flowing burns radiate outwards and have relict semi-natural broadleaved woodland (oak, birch, alder and hazel) and gorse scrub.

Edited_KeyChars:
Relict semi-natural braodleaved woodland (oak, birch, alder and hazel) on steep valley sides. Confierous plantations on some upper valley slopes.


FG KeyChar:
•	The exposed moorland areas are heavily grazed by sheep and are characterised by both heather and improved grassland.
•	The main agricultural land use is rough or semi-improved pasture for cattle and sheep rearing, with semi-improved or improved in-bye land in sheltered valleys.

Edited_KeyChars:
Mixture of rough, semi-improved and improved pasture for cattle and sheep. Moors managed for grouse.


FG KeyChar:
•	Traditional buildings comprise scattered farmhouses and cottages of Fell sandstone with slate roofs on the upper slopes, with a few hamlets in the valleys.

Edited_KeyChars:
Local traditional buildings of Fell sandstone with slate roofs.


FG KeyChar:
•	There is a network of small rivers and streams in narrow gorges with sandstone crags, loughs and mires.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	There is a network of small rivers and streams in narrow gorges with sandstone crags, loughs and mires.


FG KeyChar:
•	In places these woodlands are broken up by isolated and enclosed valleys with pastures and settlements.
•	Fields are large, open, rectangular, windswept, often poorly drained and subdivided by dry stone walls or wire fences.

Edited_KeyChars:
Valley farmland with large, rectangular fields bounded by dry stone walls or wire fences.


FG KeyChar:
•	There are important archaeological landscapes with evidence of settlements, tracks, field systems, sheilings, burial areas and Roman forts and camps.

Edited_KeyChars:
Evidence of settlements, tracks, field systems, sheilings, burial areas and Roman forts and camps


FG KeyChar:
•	The exposed moorland areas are heavily grazed by sheep and are characterised by both heather and improved grassland.
•	There are numerous peaty mires and mosses.

Edited_KeyChars:
Moorlands dominated by heather, with blanket bog, peaty mires and mosses.


FG KeyChar:
•	The area is very sparsely populated overall.
•	Military training areas at Spadeadam Forest and Otterburn affect perceptions of remoteness and solitude.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	The area is very sparsely populated overall.
•	Military training areas at Spadeadam Forest and Otterburn affect perceptions of remoteness and solitude.


FG KeyChar:
•	This is a large-scale dissected landscape of high, rolling or undulating plateau with expanses of sweeping moorland, extensive coniferous woodlands, large reservoirs, and wide, long distance views.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	This is a large-scale dissected landscape of high, rolling or undulating plateau with expanses of sweeping moorland, extensive coniferous woodlands, large reservoirs, and wide, long distance views.


FG KeyChar:
•	The treeless moorlands contrast with the vast areas of coniferous forest that dominate large parts of the area.
•	The extensive conifer plantations mainly consist of a patchwork of felled areas and different age-classes of non-native conifers.
•	There are few broadleaved trees, largely restricted to small woodland blocks, hedgerows and remnant semi-natural woodland in the more sheltered valleys.

Edited_KeyChars:
Extensive non-native conifer plantations, with few broadleaved trees in small blocks and hedgerows.


FG KeyChar:
•	The inland plain comprises improved pasture grazed by dairy cattle and sheep.

Edited_KeyChars:
Improved pasture for dairy cattle and sheep.


FG KeyChar:
•	The area includes Carlisle and numerous smaller towns and villages.  Traditional materials and styles in the area are mixed, reflecting the physical characteristics and varied history of the Solway Basin.

Edited_KeyChars:
Traditional materials and styles in the area are mixed.


FG KeyChar:
•	At the northern end of the area, the Solway Firth foreshore comprises extensive intertidal mudflats, backed by saltmarsh with a seaward edge characterised by dendretic creeks and low soft river cliffs.
•	The southern part of the Solway coast is characterised by low cliffs formed by eroding coastal drumlins, sand and pebble beaches with sand dunes and raised beaches which were formed by changes in sea levels.

Edited_KeyChars:
Low lying cliffs with raised peat bogs, heath and coastal mosses.


FG KeyChar:
•	The large rectilinear pastoral fields tend to be defined by drainage ditches, small streams, low hedgerows and stone faced hedgebanks or ‘kests’.

Edited_KeyChars:
Large rectilinear fields bounded by drainage ditches, streams, low hedgerows and stone faced hedgebanks.


FG KeyChar:
•	The area is rich in archaeological remains, being located close to the English-Scottish Border and particularly in relation to Roman and medieval monastic remains.


FG KeyChar:
•	Raised peat bogs, locally known as ‘mosses’ provide a contrast with the improved pasture which forms a large part of the coastal fringe area.

Edited_KeyChars:
Coastal mudflats, saltmarsh, dune heathland, and raised peat bogs, heath and mosses.


FG KeyChar:
•	The area includes Carlisle and numerous smaller towns and villages.  Traditional materials and styles in the area are mixed, reflecting the physical characteristics and varied history of the Solway Basin.
•	Dispersed nucleated inland settlements have grown around the core of a set of farm buildings, and along the coast towns and villages, including Victorian coastal resorts, have followed a more linear pattern of growth.
•	New, sometimes large scale development, is particularly apparent on the Carlisle urban fringe and also on several former 1940s airfields.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	The area includes Carlisle and numerous smaller towns and villages.  Traditional materials and styles in the area are mixed, reflecting the physical characteristics and varied history of the Solway Basin.
•	Dispersed nucleated inland settlements have grown around the core of a set of farm buildings, and along the coast towns and villages, including Victorian coastal resorts, have followed a more linear pattern of growth.
•	New, sometimes large scale development, is particularly apparent on the Carlisle urban fringe and also on several former 1940s airfields.


FG KeyChar:
•	A flat, open landscape lying between more dramatic upland areas - the Cumbria High Fells and the Southern Uplands.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	A flat, open landscape lying between more dramatic upland areas - the Cumbria High Fells and the Southern Uplands.


FG KeyChar:
•	Trees and woodland are limited, with some broadleaved trees in river valleys.

Edited_KeyChars:
Restricted woodland predominantly willow carr and birch scrub in river valleys.


FG KeyChar:
•	Low undulating pasture inland from the coast.  Intensive grazing by sheep and cattle in the Derwent valley which is a flat, linear pastoral landscape

Edited_KeyChars:
Mainly improved pasture for cattle and sheep grazing with occasional arable fields.


FG KeyChar:
•	Although the area’s towns tend to be largely industrial, the use of local red sandstone is apparent in both urban and more rural settlements.  It is either used alone or in combination with render or red brick.

Edited_KeyChars:
Use of local red sandstone in local buildings.


FG KeyChar:
•	Urban areas on the coast reflecting the area’s role as a coastal industry and communications centre, and characterised by barbed wire fencing, small waste dumps, derelict buildings and industrial wasteland, contrasting with the rich agricultural land and views of the high fells to the north and east.

Edited_KeyChars:
Semi natural habitats include saltmarsh and sand dunes.


FG KeyChar:
•	Perceptions of the area are influenced by industrial development, coastal defence works, beach tipping or pylons, overhead lines and wind farms.
•	Development is quite extensive in the lowland ridge, with wind turbines, masts and pylons and roads.  Open-cast coalmining is also a feature on the landscape.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	Perceptions of the area are influenced by industrial development, coastal defence works, beach tipping or pylons, overhead lines and wind farms.
•	Development is quite extensive in the lowland ridge, with wind turbines, masts and pylons and roads.  Open-cast coalmining is also a feature on the landscape.


FG KeyChar:
•	Medium to large sized fields of improved pasture inland from the coast, are subdivided by a mix of hedgerows, hedgerow trees and wire fences.  Stone walls and hedges established on stone banks form boundaries along minor roads.

Edited_KeyChars:
Medium to large fields subdivided by a mix of hedgerows with trees, wire fences and slate or stone walls.


FG KeyChar:
•	Underlying geology of coal measures, Hensingham Group and Chief Limestone Groups of Carboniferous age to the north of St. Bees Head, and to the south, an outcrop of the Permo-Triassic rocks mainly composed of the Steerton Bees Sandstone, with some overlying mudstones.  Strikingly high coastal cliffs at St. Bees Head formed by dull red sandstone.
•	Intertidal flats, a mix of shingle and pebble beaches at the northern end of the area, red sea cliffs on the central coast.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	Underlying geology of coal measures, Hensingham Group and Chief Limestone Groups of Carboniferous age to the north of St. Bees Head, and to the south, an outcrop of the Permo-Triassic rocks mainly composed of the Steerton Bees Sandstone, with some overlying mudstones.  Strikingly high coastal cliffs at St. Bees Head formed by dull red sandstone.
•	Intertidal flats, a mix of shingle and pebble beaches at the northern end of the area, red sea cliffs on the central coast.


FG KeyChar:
•	Roman coastal forts form part of the Hadrian’s Wall World Heritage Site.  The spread of monasticism in the 12th century had a key influence on patterns of agricultural activity in the area, as well as woodland management.  Perhaps most evident is the more recent industrial past of the area.  There are some historic landscapes and estates in the area including Fitz Park, Cockermouth and Curwen Park, and Workington.

Edited_KeyChars:
Presence of historic park landscapes and estates in addition to Roman forts and monastic remains.


FG KeyChar:
•	Semi natural habitats include saltmarsh and sand dunes backing the beaches. There are areas of managed and unmanged moorland towards the south of the area and inland, which is used for rough grazing.

Edited_KeyChars:
Areas of managed and unmanged heather moorland.


FG KeyChar:
•	The main towns are Maryport, Cockermouth, Workington, Whitehaven, Millom and Barrow.  Views within the landscape are affected by the visibility of ports, manufacturing industrial buildings and chemical works, as well as Sellafield nuclear power station.
•	Development is quite extensive in the lowland ridge, with wind turbines, masts and pylons and roads.  Open-cast coalmining is also a feature on the landscape.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	The main towns are Maryport, Cockermouth, Workington, Whitehaven, Millom and Barrow.  Views within the landscape are affected by the visibility of ports, manufacturing industrial buildings and chemical works, as well as Sellafield nuclear power station.
•	Development is quite extensive in the lowland ridge, with wind turbines, masts and pylons and roads.  Open-cast coalmining is also a feature on the landscape.


FG KeyChar:
•	Very few trees throughout the area, with the exception of small areas of semi-natural ancient woodland along the lowland river valleys and small woodlands and copses within fields.  Winds off the Irish Sea have an effect on both the growth rate and form of hedgerows and mature trees.

Edited_KeyChars:
Sparse semi-natural deciduous ancient woodland along river valleys and within fields.


FG KeyChar:
•	A decline in cattle and an increase in sheep numbers, a reduction in shepherding and an increase in the overwintering of stock on the fells has influenced the character of the area.

Edited_KeyChars:
On higher land mainly unimproved rough grazing land, with semi-improved and improved pasture for cattle and sheep with some arable in the valleys.


FG KeyChar:
•	Buildings are constructed of local stone with slate roofs

Edited_KeyChars:
Buildings are constructed of local stone with slate roofs


FG KeyChar:
•	Glacial erosion and deposition has formed lakes and tarns in the area through over-deepening of valley floors, formation of rock basins and the creation of natural dams.
•	Silting of lakes has produced some large alluvial flats and fans.
•	Linear watercourses are lined with broadleaved trees and shrubs.  Lakes are surrounded by relatively open land.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	Glacial erosion and deposition has formed lakes and tarns in the area through over-deepening of valley floors, formation of rock basins and the creation of natural dams.
•	Silting of lakes has produced some large alluvial flats and fans.
•	Linear watercourses are lined with broadleaved trees and shrubs.  Lakes are surrounded by relatively open land.


FG KeyChar:
•	Boundaries are formed by stone walls, with hedgerows and hedgerow trees in the valleys.  
•	There is largely unimproved rough grazing land in the higher areas, with semi-improved and improved pasture and rectilinear fields in the valleys.

Edited_KeyChars:
Rectilinear fields bounded by stone walls and hedgerows with trees.


FG KeyChar:
•	High fells, with deep U-shaped glaciated valleys forming steep open fellsides with rocky outcrops.  The underlying geology is composed of rocks of the Skiddaw Group, together with an outcrop of the Borrowdale Volcanic group in the Sca Fell Range towards the centre of the area.  The volcanic rock provides rugged, spectacular scenery whilst the Skiddaw group forms smooth sided mountains such as Skiddaw.  Mineral veins run through all of the rocks in the area. Scree slopes are common.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	High fells, with deep U-shaped glaciated valleys forming steep open fellsides with rocky outcrops.  The underlying geology is composed of rocks of the Skiddaw Group, together with an outcrop of the Borrowdale Volcanic group in the Sca Fell Range towards the centre of the area.  The volcanic rock provides rugged, spectacular scenery whilst the Skiddaw group forms smooth sided mountains such as Skiddaw.  Mineral veins run through all of the rocks in the area. Scree slopes are common.


JM KeyChar:
•	There is widespread evidence of prehistoric settlement (burial cairns, stone circles, enclosures); Roman influence (forts, roads such as High Street, farmstead sites); and early cultivation (ridge and furrow and lynchets).
•	Many farmhouses and other domestic buildings date from 1650-1750, a period of prosperity here.  18th and 19th century mining and processing is visible in the landscape in many areas.

Edited_KeyChars:
Prehistoric, Roman and early farming archaeological evidence and remains. Many 17th century domestic buildings and mining evidence from the industrial revolution.


FG KeyChar:
•	Mires, marshy grasslands and reed swamp in low lying areas are valued semi-natural habitats.

Edited_KeyChars:
Unimproved wetland habitats such as mires, marshy grasslands and reed swamp in low lying areas are valued semi-natural habitats. Upland heah moorland,


FG KeyChar:
•	Agricultural settlements are found in the valleys.  The valleys also contain market towns which have expanded in response to the area’s popularity for tourism and recreation.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	Agricultural settlements are found in the valleys.  The valleys also contain market towns which have expanded in response to the area’s popularity for tourism and recreation.


FG KeyChar:
•	High fells, with deep U-shaped glaciated valleys forming steep open fellsides with rocky outcrops.  The underlying geology is composed of rocks of the Skiddaw Group, together with an outcrop of the Borrowdale Volcanic group in the Sca Fell Range towards the centre of the area.  The volcanic rock provides rugged, spectacular scenery whilst the Skiddaw group forms smooth sided mountains such as Skiddaw.  Mineral veins run through all of the rocks in the area. Scree slopes are common.
•	U-shaped valleys, hanging valleys and corries higher on the mountains.  The sheltered U-shaped valleys have sloping sides and flat valley floors.
•	Silting of lakes has produced some large alluvial flats and fans.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	High fells, with deep U-shaped glaciated valleys forming steep open fellsides with rocky outcrops.  The underlying geology is composed of rocks of the Skiddaw Group, together with an outcrop of the Borrowdale Volcanic group in the Sca Fell Range towards the centre of the area.  The volcanic rock provides rugged, spectacular scenery whilst the Skiddaw group forms smooth sided mountains such as Skiddaw.  Mineral veins run through all of the rocks in the area. Scree slopes are common.
•	U-shaped valleys, hanging valleys and corries higher on the mountains.  The sheltered U-shaped valleys have sloping sides and flat valley floors.
•	Silting of lakes has produced some large alluvial flats and fans.


FG KeyChar:
•	There are relatively few trees on the exposed higher land.  Large individual trees surround lakes.  On the more sheltered sites there are extensive areas of ancient, semi-natural broadleaved, mixed and conifer woodlands.

Edited_KeyChars:
Few trees on higher land. In sheltered areas and along watercourses are extensive areas of ancient, semi-natural broadleaved, mixed and conifer woodlands.


FG KeyChar:
•	Restoration has created large tracts of simple, relatively featureless agricultural land with strips of plantation.
•	Large, open, regular arable fields are interspersed with pastures grazed by sheep and cattle and urban fringe pony paddocks on the poorer, reclaimed soils.

Edited_KeyChars:
Large, open, regular arable fields are interspersed with pastures grazed by sheep and cattle and pony paddocks on the poorer, reclaimed soils.


FG KeyChar:
•	Buildings are generally of red brick and slate.

Edited_KeyChars:
Buildings are generally of red brick and slate.


FG KeyChar:
•	Mudflats and saltmarshes are found within the river estuaries and there are expansive sandy beaches backed by dunes.

Edited_KeyChars:
Mudflats and saltmarshes found in river estuaries and sanddunes on beaches.


FG KeyChar:
•	In the southern part of the area large-scale industry, urban settlements and major road and rail routes dominate the landscape.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	In the southern part of the area large-scale industry, urban settlements and major road and rail routes dominate the landscape.


FG KeyChar:
•	Areas of open water and wetland occur in areas of mining subsidence and as features within restored landscapes; in places these have been developed as recreational landscapes.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	Areas of open water and wetland occur in areas of mining subsidence and as features within restored landscapes; in places these have been developed as recreational landscapes.


FG KeyChar:
•	Fields are bounded by post and wire fences or by hedges.
•	Hedgerows are generally low and gappy, with no hedgerow trees, although hedgerow condition tends to be better in the more rural, northern areas.

Edited_KeyChars:
Fields are bounded by post and wire fences or by hedgerows which are generally low and gappy.


FG KeyChar:
•	There are large, scattered country houses, institutions (hospital, prisons, colleges), and an extensive urban fringe effect near settlements, where pit villages have often merged.

Edited_KeyChars:
Estate parklands with broadleaved woodland.


FG KeyChar:
•	There are large, scattered country houses, institutions (hospital, prisons, colleges), and an extensive urban fringe effect near settlements, where pit villages have often merged.
•	In the southern part of the area large-scale industry, urban settlements and major road and rail routes dominate the landscape.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	There are large, scattered country houses, institutions (hospital, prisons, colleges), and an extensive urban fringe effect near settlements, where pit villages have often merged.
•	In the southern part of the area large-scale industry, urban settlements and major road and rail routes dominate the landscape.


FG KeyChar:
•	Sweeping sandy beaches and rocky headlands remain although much of the coast is developed.
•	It is heavily influenced by large-scale opencast coal mining sites, deep mine spoil heaps and colliery restoration.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	Sweeping sandy beaches and rocky headlands remain although much of the coast is developed.
•	It is heavily influenced by large-scale opencast coal mining sites, deep mine spoil heaps and colliery restoration.


FG KeyChar:
•	There are prominent blocks of mixed and coniferous woodland, many of which are still maturing, mainly on reclaimed colliery sites.
•	Broadleaved woods occur on steeper valley sides and within estate parkland.
•	The coast is open, largely treeless and windswept.
•	Restoration has created large tracts of simple, relatively featureless agricultural land with strips of plantation.

Edited_KeyChars:
Blocks of mixed and coniferous woodland on colliery sites, with broadleaved woods on steeper valley sides and in estate parkland.


FG KeyChar:
•	Gently rolling terraces of open arable and mixed farmland with low hedges and few trees or woodlands occupy much of the area.
•	On land restored from spoil heaps or opencast mining, pastures for sheep grazing are divided by fences or strips of mixed or coniferous plantation; these landscapes lack maturity.

Edited_KeyChars:
Mostly arable and mixed improved farmland, with pasture for sheep grazing on steeper slopes.


FG KeyChar:
•	There are scattered ‘green’ villages with buildings of local sandstone and roofs of red clay pantile or slate, as well as numerous mining and industrial terraces of Victorian brick and slate, and later estate housing.

Edited_KeyChars:
Buildings of local sandstone and roofs of red clay pantile or slate, as well as industrial terraces of Victorian brick and slate.


FG KeyChar:
•	The area is dominated by widespread urban and industrial development and a dense network of major road and rail links.
•	Coal mining has resulted in locally-prominent opencast extraction areas, spoil heaps and recently restored sites.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	The area is dominated by widespread urban and industrial development and a dense network of major road and rail links.
•	Coal mining has resulted in locally-prominent opencast extraction areas, spoil heaps and recently restored sites.


JM KeyChar:
•	Most field systems have their origins in town field enclosures of the 16th and 17th centuries and have suffered in varying degrees from field enlargement in the 20th century.

Edited_KeyChars:
16th and 17th century field patterns that have been enlarged in places in the 20th century. Divided by low hawthorn hedges, fences or strips of conifer plantation.


FG KeyChar:
•	The area comprises gently undulating or rolling land, underlain by sandstones, shales and coal with thick layers of glacial clays, sands and gravels, and incised by the meandering rivers Tyne and Wear and their tributaries.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	The area comprises gently undulating or rolling land, underlain by sandstones, shales and coal with thick layers of glacial clays, sands and gravels, and incised by the meandering rivers Tyne and Wear and their tributaries.


FG KeyChar:
•	Higher ground offers panoramic views within which the Tyne bridges and Durham Cathedral are prominent landmarks.
•	Parkland and wooded estates surrounding castles and country houses lie along the river corridors.
•	The historic riverside cities of Newcastle-upon-Tyne and Durham are strategically located at bridging points of the rivers Tyne and Wear.

Edited_KeyChars:
Parkland and wooded estate farmland surrounding castles and country houses lie along the river corridors.


FG KeyChar:
•	Settlements include the spreading conurbation of Tyneside, the planned structures of new towns, and more dispersed large towns and villages further south.
•	The area is dominated by widespread urban and industrial development and a dense network of major road and rail links.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	Settlements include the spreading conurbation of Tyneside, the planned structures of new towns, and more dispersed large towns and villages further south.
•	The area is dominated by widespread urban and industrial development and a dense network of major road and rail links.


JM KeyChar:
•	Ancient oak woods are found in denes and gorges and on steep river bluffs, and there are some remnant heaths and valley mires.

Edited_KeyChars:
Ancient oak woods are found in denes and gorges and on steep river bluffs, and there are some remnant heaths and valley mires.


FG KeyChar:
•	Urban fringe land uses such as pony grazing are also found around settlements.
•	The historic riverside cities of Newcastle-upon-Tyne and Durham are strategically located at bridging points of the rivers Tyne and Wear.
•	Settlements include the spreading conurbation of Tyneside, the planned structures of new towns, and more dispersed large towns and villages further south.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	Urban fringe land uses such as pony grazing are also found around settlements.
•	The historic riverside cities of Newcastle-upon-Tyne and Durham are strategically located at bridging points of the rivers Tyne and Wear.
•	Settlements include the spreading conurbation of Tyneside, the planned structures of new towns, and more dispersed large towns and villages further south.


FG KeyChar:
•	The area comprises gently undulating or rolling land, underlain by sandstones, shales and coal with thick layers of glacial clays, sands and gravels, and incised by the meandering rivers Tyne and Wear and their tributaries.
•	Steep gorges and denes open up in places into broad floodplains overlooked by steep bluffs.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	The area comprises gently undulating or rolling land, underlain by sandstones, shales and coal with thick layers of glacial clays, sands and gravels, and incised by the meandering rivers Tyne and Wear and their tributaries.
•	Steep gorges and denes open up in places into broad floodplains overlooked by steep bluffs.


FG KeyChar:
•	Woodland cover is generally sparse but the valley sides and bluffs are well wooded (sometimes with ancient oak woods).
•	Parkland and wooded estates surrounding castles and country houses lie along the river corridors.

Edited_KeyChars:
Ancient oak woodland concentrated in valley sides and bluffs. Parkland woodland elsewhere. In valleys abundant hedgerow trees; oak, ash, sycamore and beech.


FG KeyChar:
•	There are large, regular fields bounded by low, clipped hedges and few hedgerow trees; most farmland is open arable.
•	The land around the larger settlements shows strong urban fringe influences such as pony paddocks, sheds and allotments.

Edited_KeyChars:
Most farmland is open arable with occasional improved pasture, with urban fringe land used for pony paddocks and allotments.


FG KeyChar:
•	The traditional villages of the plateau, which still have some local stone-built houses clustered around central greens, contrast with Victorian brick-built terraces.

Edited_KeyChars:
Traditional, local stone-built houses contrast with Victorian brick-built terraces.


FG KeyChar:
•	There is widespread urban development with major infrastructure corridors, scattered mining towns and villages near the coast, and large industrial estates.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	There is widespread urban development with major infrastructure corridors, scattered mining towns and villages near the coast, and large industrial estates.


FG KeyChar:
•	There are large, regular fields bounded by low, clipped hedges and few hedgerow trees; most farmland is open arable.

Edited_KeyChars:
There are large, regular fields bounded by low, clipped hawthorn hedges and few hedgerow trees.


FG KeyChar:
•	There is varied coastal topography of low limestone cliffs and clay slopes, sandy bays and rocky headlands, despoiled in places by tipping of colliery wastes.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	There is varied coastal topography of low limestone cliffs and clay slopes, sandy bays and rocky headlands, despoiled in places by tipping of colliery wastes.


FG KeyChar:
•	Limestone quarries are prominent on the escarpment and areas of derelict or recently restored colliery land lie close to settlements.

Edited_KeyChars:
Presence of parkland and estates rich in hedgerows and woodland. Prominent limestone quarries and areas of restored colliery land.


FG KeyChar:
•	Remnants of Magnesian Limestone grassland occur on thin calcareous soils on steeper escarpment slopes and drift-free ridges and there are limestone plant communities in old quarries.

Edited_KeyChars:
Remnants of Magnesian Limestone grassland on steeper escarpment slopes and limestone plant communities in old quarries. Coastal scrub of blackthorn, hazel and juniper.


FG KeyChar:
•	The traditional villages of the plateau, which still have some local stone-built houses clustered around central greens, contrast with Victorian brick-built terraces.
•	There is widespread urban development with major infrastructure corridors, scattered mining towns and villages near the coast, and large industrial estates.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	The traditional villages of the plateau, which still have some local stone-built houses clustered around central greens, contrast with Victorian brick-built terraces.
•	There is widespread urban development with major infrastructure corridors, scattered mining towns and villages near the coast, and large industrial estates.


FG KeyChar:
•	This gently rolling low plateau of soft Magnesian Limestones, overlain by thick glacial boulder clays, dips south-eastwards and is incised by steep-sided denes at the coast.
•	A low west-facing escarpment is dissected in the north by minor valleys separated by spurs.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	This gently rolling low plateau of soft Magnesian Limestones, overlain by thick glacial boulder clays, dips south-eastwards and is incised by steep-sided denes at the coast.
•	A low west-facing escarpment is dissected in the north by minor valleys separated by spurs.


FG KeyChar:
•	Woodland cover is low, but ancient ash woods are found in steep-sided limestone denes towards the coast and on the escarpment, and occasional broadleaved woodlands occur within parkland and country estates.

Edited_KeyChars:
Sparse woodland cover with ancient ash, oak, wych elm and yew woods in steep-sided limestone denes and occasional broadleaved woodlands in country estates.


FG KeyChar:
•	On the ridges, most farmland is used for sheep and cattle grazing; in the valleys there is a mixture of arable fields and improved pastures.

Edited_KeyChars:
On the ridges, most farmland is used for sheep and cattle grazing; in the valleys there is a mixture of arable fields and improved pastures.


FG KeyChar:
•	Old agricultural villages lie on the ridge tops or valley floors and have buildings of local sandstone with roofs of stone or slate.

Edited_KeyChars:
Buildings of local sandstone with roofs of stone or slate.


FG KeyChar:
•	Recently reclaimed land and ongoing opencast coal mining are locally prominent in the landscape.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	Recently reclaimed land and ongoing opencast coal mining are locally prominent in the landscape.


FG KeyChar:
•	The ridges are characterised by large, regular grids of dry stone walls and gappy thorn hedges, crossed by straight enclosure roads and lanes.
•	Fields in the valleys are generally smaller and bounded by hawthorn hedges with scattered hedgerow oak and ash.

Edited_KeyChars:
Ridges are characterised by large, regular grids of dry stone walls and gappy thorn hedges and fields in the valleys are generally smaller and bounded by hawthorn hedges with scattered hedgerow trees.


FG KeyChar:
•	Soft and thinly bedded sandstones, shales and coals give rise to gently rounded ridges with occasional steeper bluffs; boulder clay on lower valley slopes.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	Soft and thinly bedded sandstones, shales and coals give rise to gently rounded ridges with occasional steeper bluffs; boulder clay on lower valley slopes.


FG KeyChar:
•	There are numerous relics of the mining industry.

Edited_KeyChars:
Occasional parklands and wooded estates. Relics of the mining industry and small ponds, oxbow lakes and wetlands in former gravel works.


FG KeyChar:
•	Fragments of heathland and scrub occur on infertile acidic soils on higher ground.

Edited_KeyChars:
Fragments of heathland and scrub occur on infertile acidic soils on higher ground. Heathland and scrub vegetation on the upland fringe.


FG KeyChar:
•	Old agricultural villages lie on the ridge tops or valley floors and have buildings of local sandstone with roofs of stone or slate.
•	Mining villages with Victorian terraced housing of brick or stone and slate and later estate housing are scattered across the landscape, contributing an urban fringe character, particularly in the north-eastern part of the Character.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	Old agricultural villages lie on the ridge tops or valley floors and have buildings of local sandstone with roofs of stone or slate.
•	Mining villages with Victorian terraced housing of brick or stone and slate and later estate housing are scattered across the landscape, contributing an urban fringe character, particularly in the north-eastern part of the Character.


FG KeyChar:
•	This rolling low upland landscape of ridges and valleys has a strong east-west grain with panoramic views from higher ground.
•	The valleys are broad with moderate slopes and occasional narrow flood plains.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	This rolling low upland landscape of ridges and valleys has a strong east-west grain with panoramic views from higher ground.
•	The valleys are broad with moderate slopes and occasional narrow flood plains.


FG KeyChar:
•	Coniferous plantations are found on the higher valley sides and ridges.
•	Ancient oak woods are found in narrow steep-sided denes and along the banks of rivers and streams.
•	Occasional parklands and wooded estates surround small country houses.

Edited_KeyChars:
Ancient oak and oak-birch woods are found in narrow steep-sided denes and along the banks of rivers and streams. Hedgerow trees generally scattered oak and ash.


FG KeyChar:
•	Settlement is limited and generally on the lower land around the central upland, and the villages of Orton, Crosby Ravensworth, Ravenstonedale and Shap are historic settlements with limestone buildings and walls.


FG KeyChar:
•	Rivers through the area include the River Lune along the southern edge, River Lyennet and River Lowther.  These are generally slow flowing as a result of their permeable limestone bedrock.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	Rivers through the area include the River Lune along the southern edge, River Lyennet and River Lowther.  These are generally slow flowing as a result of their permeable limestone bedrock.


FG KeyChar:
•	The area has a strong field pattern with high limestone walls and isolated ash trees forming the field boundaries.


FG KeyChar:
•	A distinctive block of rolling upland farmland with limestone outcrops, scars and pavements.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	A distinctive block of rolling upland farmland with limestone outcrops, scars and pavements.


FG KeyChar:
•	There are rich archaeological resources in the area.

JM KeyChar:
•	This area has very rich archaeological and historic resources including stone circles, evidence of prehistoric settlement and cultivation, Roman roads, monastic granges, planned medieval limestone villages, associated field patterns and droveways, tower houses and deer parks.


FG KeyChar:
•	Landcover is predominantly moorland with remnant heather in the upland areas, together with limestone upland.  There are extensive limestone pavement areas and scars.


FG KeyChar:
•	Settlement is limited and generally on the lower land around the central upland, and the villages of Orton, Crosby Ravensworth, Ravenstonedale and Shap are historic settlements with limestone buildings and walls.
•	Development has mainly included limestone quarrying and stone extraction for rockeries from limestone pavements.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	Settlement is limited and generally on the lower land around the central upland, and the villages of Orton, Crosby Ravensworth, Ravenstonedale and Shap are historic settlements with limestone buildings and walls.
•	Development has mainly included limestone quarrying and stone extraction for rockeries from limestone pavements.


FG KeyChar:
•	There is limited woodland, with sheltering clumps around farmsteads, small copses of semi-natural broadleaved trees, coniferous and mixed woodlands.  The fields have scattered individual ash trees.


FG KeyChar:
•	The area is largely rough grazing for both sheep and cattle.  The higher areas have open moorland, whilst the slopes have rough grassland, heather and bracken and are used for grazing.

Edited_KeyChars:
The area is largely rough grazing for both sheep and cattle.


FG KeyChar:
•	The area has few settlements due to the inaccessible and exposed landform.  There are limited, small hamlets and farmsteadings scattered across the area.  Traditional materials used are gritstone or sandstone with flagged roofs.

Edited_KeyChars:
Traditional building materials used are gritstone or sandstone with flagged roofs.


FG KeyChar:
•	Some small streams flow down the gills, extending from the centre of the area outwards.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	Some small streams flow down the gills, extending from the centre of the area outwards.


FG KeyChar:
•	Pastures are bounded by stone walls, and confined to the lower areas, whilst the higher areas and moorland are largely unenclosed.

Edited_KeyChars:
Pastures are bounded by stone walls in the lower areas, whilst the higher areas and moorland are largely unenclosed.


FG KeyChar:
•	The hills have complex underlying geology which is resistant to erosion and has thus resulted in the hills having a smooth rounded shape.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	The hills have complex underlying geology which is resistant to erosion and has thus resulted in the hills having a smooth rounded shape.


JM KeyChar:
•	Fells utilised since prehistoric times for summer grazing, peat, heather and bracken and continue to support commoning.  Medieval trackways and shielings can be found in many places, especially on the lower western slopes.

Edited_KeyChars:
Fells utilised since prehistoric times for summer grazing, peat, heather and bracken and continue to support commoning.  Medieval trackways and shielings can be found in many places, especially on the lower western slopes.


FG KeyChar:
•	In terms of semi-natural areas, the moorland is poorly drained and has blanket bog underlain by deep peat which forms an important habitat.  Most of the area is covered with acidic grassland.

Edited_KeyChars:
The moorland has blanket bog underlain by deep peat which forms an important habitat.  Most of the area is covered with acidic grassland. The slopes have rough grassland, heather and bracken.


Edited_KeyChars:
•	The area has few settlements due to the inaccessible and exposed landform.  There are limited, small hamlets and farmsteadings scattered across the area.  Traditional materials used are gritstone or sandstone with flagged roofs.


FG KeyChar:
•	Steep sided distinctive smooth hills and pronounced ridges and valleys and incised by a number of narrow inaccessible gills.  The hills have steep scree slopes and occasional waterfalls and crags, and they reach heights of 600m.
•	The River Lune Valley provides a contrast with the upland landscape of the Howgill Fells.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	Steep sided distinctive smooth hills and pronounced ridges and valleys and incised by a number of narrow inaccessible gills.  The hills have steep scree slopes and occasional waterfalls and crags, and they reach heights of 600m.
•	The River Lune Valley provides a contrast with the upland landscape of the Howgill Fells.


FG KeyChar:
•	The area has very limited tree cover although there are some blocks of coniferous woodland on the lower slopes near Sedbergh.  Trees are prominent around villages and farmsteads and along water courses.

Edited_KeyChars:
Limited tree cover; some blocks of conifer woodland. Trees around villages and along watercourses.


FG KeyChar:
•	A pastoral landscape, with improved undulating pastures and some areas being particularly well managed to provide a parkland character, particularly around the edges of the lakes (e.g. adjacent to Windermere and Coniston), on the valley bottoms and within estates.  Semi improved pasture with ridges and hollows.

Edited_KeyChars:
Mainly improved/ semi-improved undulating pastures


FG KeyChar:
•	Building materials include local limestone and slate (Silurian) in the south, and local sandstone elsewhere.

Edited_KeyChars:
Building materials of local limestone and slate (Silurian) in the south and local sandstone elsewhere
Redundant barns at risk


FG KeyChar:
•	Large lakes, including Lake Windermere and Coniston Water, streams and minor river valleys are characteristic features of the area.  Rivers are fast flowing over rocky beds.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	Large lakes, including Lake Windermere and Coniston Water, streams and minor river valleys are characteristic features of the area.  Rivers are fast flowing over rocky beds.


FG KeyChar:
•	Field boundaries are generally dry stone walls (local sandstone, or limestone in the south) and field sizes in the lower areas are generally small to medium, increasing towards the east.

Edited_KeyChars:
Dry stone walls (local sandstone, or limestone in the south)
Small to medium size hedged fields in lower areas, increasing to east (hedgerow loss in Lune valley)


FG KeyChar:
•	Undulating low fells and ridges, together with 300m+ high rugged fells.  Underlying Silurian slates and shales contribute to the area’s gentler, undulating character and form.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	Undulating low fells and ridges, together with 300m+ high rugged fells.  Underlying Silurian slates and shales contribute to the area’s gentler, undulating character and form.


FG KeyChar:
•	Historic field systems date from medieval times and there are several deer parks in the area. Sheep walks, established on the fells from the 13th century, are also historic landscape features.

Edited_KeyChars:
Historic medieval field systems, sheep walks and deer parks
Some areas of parkland  character, particularly around lakes, on valley bottoms and within estates


FG KeyChar:
•	The low fells include heathland, tarns and becks, small wetlands and mires, rough grassland and bracken. Undulating fields of species-rich grassland.

Edited_KeyChars:
Species-rich grassland
Heathland
Small lowland bogs, wetlands and mires
Traditional cattle grazing on moorland commons


FG KeyChar:
•	Settlement is largely in small hamlets and villages on the lower slopes, linked by a network of minor roads.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	Settlement is largely in small hamlets and villages on the lower slopes, linked by a network of minor roads.


FG KeyChar:
•	Undulating low fells and ridges, together with 300m+ high rugged fells.  Underlying Silurian slates and shales contribute to the area’s gentler, undulating character and form.
•	Glacial erosion formed long, straight U-shaped valleys with lakes.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	Undulating low fells and ridges, together with 300m+ high rugged fells.  Underlying Silurian slates and shales contribute to the area’s gentler, undulating character and form.
•	Glacial erosion formed long, straight U-shaped valleys with lakes.


FG KeyChar:
•	The area includes substantial woodland and large mature trees.  Small broadleaved and coniferous copses are found on the rugged fells and coniferous and broadleaved woodland on the small valley slopes and ridges.  At higher levels, tree cover is much more limited.

Edited_KeyChars:
Substantial woodland and large mature trees, including many in-field trees
Broadleaved woodland on the slopes and ridge
Small broadleaved copses on the fells - in need of protection and renewal
Tree cover more limited at higher levels
Remnant traditional orchards


FG KeyChar:
•	Sheep and cattle graze the coastal pasture and intertidal commons.  Lowland raised mires surrounding the limestone outcrops have been reclaimed for agriculture.  Rough grazing is a feature of the higher grounds on unimproved limestone grassland or rough fell vegetation.

Edited_KeyChars:
Coastal pasture and intertidal commons with sheep and cattle
Lowland raised mires reclaimed for agriculture
Unimproved rough grazing on limestone outcrops and fells


FG KeyChar:
•	The coastline consists of shifting intertidal sandflats and saltmarsh with minor channels and pools. Areas of scaurs and pebble patches, mudflats, sandy beaches, bedrock and pebble and shingle beaches are exposed at low tide.  The Rivers Leven and Kent flow into Morecambe Bay.

Edited_KeyChars:
Shifting intertidal sandflats, mudflats and saltmarsh with minor channels and pools
Sand, pebble and shingle beaches exposed at low tide


Edited_KeyChars:
•	The coastline consists of shifting intertidal sandflats and saltmarsh with minor channels and pools. Areas of scaurs and pebble patches, mudflats, sandy beaches, bedrock and pebble and shingle beaches are exposed at low tide.  The Rivers Leven and Kent flow into Morecambe Bay.


FG KeyChar:
•	Fields are generally enclosed by limestone walls or hedges.

Edited_KeyChars:
Fields generally enclosed by limestone walls or hedges
Ditches or dykes locally characteristic in low-lying areas such as Lyth valley


FG KeyChar:
•	The margins of Morecambe Bay have been formed by faulted outcrops of Lower Carboniferous limestone, forming upstanding blocks and bare limestone scars, pavements and cliffs.  Low limestone beaches are found at Arnside and Silverdale.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	The margins of Morecambe Bay have been formed by faulted outcrops of Lower Carboniferous limestone, forming upstanding blocks and bare limestone scars, pavements and cliffs.  Low limestone beaches are found at Arnside and Silverdale.


FG KeyChar:
•	Historic features include burial mounds and stone circles on higher grounds, prehistoric settlements and enclosures on Birkrigg Common and medieval field patterns. Coppice woodlands are a further feature of the area which reflect past traditional management practices.

Edited_KeyChars:
Historic features that include burial mounds, stone circles, prehistoric settlements and enclosures and medieval field patterns
Stately homes set in parkland landscapes


FG KeyChar:
•	Semi natural areas include a mosaic of species rich grassland, limestone pavements, scrub, semi-natural coppice woodland, herb-rich grasslands, peaty fenlands and mosslands.

Edited_KeyChars:
Mosaic of species-rich grassland and limestone pavements
Peaty fenlands and mosslands - affected by drainage and scrub encroachmen


FG KeyChar:
•	Settlements are generally dispersed and rural in character, having usually grown around large farmsteads.  
•	Larger centres include Grange-over-Sands, Arnside, Silverdale and Milnthorpe which have a seaside resort character, reflecting the growth in the use of the area for recreation from the 18th Century onwards.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	Settlements are generally dispersed and rural in character, having usually grown around large farmsteads.  
•	Larger centres include Grange-over-Sands, Arnside, Silverdale and Milnthorpe which have a seaside resort character, reflecting the growth in the use of the area for recreation from the 18th Century onwards.


FG KeyChar:
•	Lower lying undulating pastoral areas are found between the hills and the coast, including a larger scale rolling landscape to the west and a smaller scale landscape of contrasts with the surrounding limestone hills to the east.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	Lower lying undulating pastoral areas are found between the hills and the coast, including a larger scale rolling landscape to the west and a smaller scale landscape of contrasts with the surrounding limestone hills to the east.


FG KeyChar:
•	Some scrub and broadleaved woodland is found in the inland areas, with some areas of ancient and semi-natural woodland.   There are relatively few trees on the coast.

Edited_KeyChars:
Scrub and broadleaved woodland including ancient and semi-natural woodland and traditional coppice
Relatively few trees on the coast
Remnant traditional orchards (damsons in Lyth valley)


FG KeyChar:
•	Agriculture is based on upland sheep farming and cattle grazing.  Rough grazing on the upper hill slopes gives way to permanent pastures on the dales sides and hay meadows and silage fields on the more fertile dale floor.

Edited_KeyChars:
Rough grazing for sheep and cattle on the upper hill slopes gives way to permanent pastures on the dales sides and hay meadows and silage fields on the more fertile dale floor.


FG KeyChar:
•	The dales are characterised by distinctive stone-built barns, often roofed with large slabs of stone.

Edited_KeyChars:
The dales are characterised by distinctive stone-built barns, often roofed with large slabs of stone.


FG KeyChar:
•	There are few naturally occurring waterbodies, reflecting the predominance of limestone.  The principal exceptions occur where carboniferous rocks have been eroded away to reveal impermeable rocks below, such as at Malham Tarn.  Reservoirs and associated water gathering grounds influence the landscape in Nidderdale.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	There are few naturally occurring waterbodies, reflecting the predominance of limestone.  The principal exceptions occur where carboniferous rocks have been eroded away to reveal impermeable rocks below, such as at Malham Tarn.  Reservoirs and associated water gathering grounds influence the landscape in Nidderdale.


FG KeyChar:
•	Field boundaries comprise distinctive drystone walls, enclosing large, rectilinear fields on the higher fells and smaller, older and irregular fields within the dales and particularly around villages.

Edited_KeyChars:
Field boundaries are drystone walls, enclosing large, rectilinear fields on the higher fells and smaller, older and irregular fields within the dales.


FG KeyChar:
•	The Yorkshire Dales are underlain by Millstone Grit in the east, the Yoredale Series (comprising alternating limestone, sandstone and shales) in the north and west and Great Scar Limestone in the south and west.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	The Yorkshire Dales are underlain by Millstone Grit in the east, the Yoredale Series (comprising alternating limestone, sandstone and shales) in the north and west and Great Scar Limestone in the south and west.


FG KeyChar:
•	This is an historic landscape with remnants of strip lynchet field systems and the sites of Norse settlements.  The networks of stone field boundaries, barns and lanes are perhaps the most visible components of the historic landscape. Extensive remains from the lead mining industry, and the Settle to Carlisle Railway with its famous Ribblehead viaduct, are also prominent historic features within the landscape.

Edited_KeyChars:
The networks of stone field boundaries, barns and lanes are perhaps the most visible components of the historic landscape.


FG KeyChar:
•	The fells comprise a mixture of heather moorland in the drier east and cotton grass bog in the wetter west.  In the south west, there are limestone outcrops in the form of pavements, scars and screes.

Edited_KeyChars:
There is a mixture of heather moorland in the drier east and cotton grass bog in the wetter west. Alkaline-loving wild-flowers on limestone moorland.


FG KeyChar:
•	Although the area is predominantly rural in nature, it has a number of limestone and sandstone quarries.
•	Stone villages tend to be nucleated and focused on key transport routes and at bridging points.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	Although the area is predominantly rural in nature, it has a number of limestone and sandstone quarries.
•	Stone villages tend to be nucleated and focused on key transport routes and at bridging points.


FG KeyChar:
•	The Millstone Grit gives rise to a plateau of high moorland.  The Yoredale Series gives rise to typically stepped profiles along dales sides.  The Great Scar Limestone gives rise to classic glacio-karst landscapes with limestone pavements, gorges, gills, scars, outcrops and cave systems.
•	The high moorland, which rises in places to over 600m AOD, contrasts with deep, glacially enlarged dales.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	The Millstone Grit gives rise to a plateau of high moorland.  The Yoredale Series gives rise to typically stepped profiles along dales sides.  The Great Scar Limestone gives rise to classic glacio-karst landscapes with limestone pavements, gorges, gills, scars, outcrops and cave systems.
•	The high moorland, which rises in places to over 600m AOD, contrasts with deep, glacially enlarged dales.


FG KeyChar:
•	The Yorkshire Dales have limited tree cover.  Woodland tends to be limited to woods planted around villages and farmsteads to provide shelter, and sparse ancient and semi-natural woodlands on steeper slopes along gills and dalesides.

Edited_KeyChars:
Woodland tends to be limited to woods planted around villages and sparse ancient and semi-natural woodlands on steeper slopes.


FG KeyChar:
•	The area is predominantly pastoral though some arable farming is found on lighter soils in the north and east of the area.

Edited_KeyChars:
The area is mainly pastoral with some arable farming in the north and east of the area.


FG KeyChar:
•	Villages, farms and larger settlements are built of local stone, complementing stone walls where they occur.  Most buildings are of Millstone Grit, but Magnesian Limestone is also used in the east.

Edited_KeyChars:
Most buildings are of Millstone Grit, but Magnesian Limestone is also used in the east.


FG KeyChar:
•	Rivers such as the Tees, Ure, Nidd and Wharf are often important landscape features, flowing through broad, glacially widened valleys.  Smaller rivers, such as the Burn, Laver, Kex Beck and the Skell flow through steep sided valleys following courses cut by glacial meltwaters.  The River Washburn, a tributary of the Wharf, has been dammed to create a series of reservoirs.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	Rivers such as the Tees, Ure, Nidd and Wharf are often important landscape features, flowing through broad, glacially widened valleys.  Smaller rivers, such as the Burn, Laver, Kex Beck and the Skell flow through steep sided valleys following courses cut by glacial meltwaters.  The River Washburn, a tributary of the Wharf, has been dammed to create a series of reservoirs.


FG KeyChar:
•	Field boundaries include stone walls on higher ground and hedges in lower areas.  Around villages, fields are often small, reflecting their medieval origins and the combination of dairy farming with textile weaving.  Fields on higher ground tend to be larger and more regular, dating from parliamentary enclosure.

Edited_KeyChars:
Field boundaries include stone walls on higher ground and hedges in lower areas. Fields on lower ground tend to be smaller and of medieval origin whilst are larger and more regular on higher ground.


FG KeyChar:
•	The Pennine Dales Fringe is underlain by resistant Millstone Grit which dips gently to the east, forming the eastern flank of the Pennines.  The flanks are dissected by a series of river valleys including those of the Tees, Ure, Nidd and Wharf.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	The Pennine Dales Fringe is underlain by resistant Millstone Grit which dips gently to the east, forming the eastern flank of the Pennines.  The flanks are dissected by a series of river valleys including those of the Tees, Ure, Nidd and Wharf.


JM KeyChar:
•	In the north of this area, landscape patterns have been influenced by Roman settlement along Dere Street (A1).  Medieval abbeys and castles, packhorse and masonry bridges across the area’s many rivers, and country houses and parks (often former medieval deer parks) are distinctive historic landscape features.

Edited_KeyChars:
Country houses and former medieval deer parks are present. Landscape patterns influenced by Roman and medieval usage.


FG KeyChar:
•	Semi-natural habitats are generally confined to the upper fringes in the north and west where improved grassland gives way to rough moorland grazing.

Edited_KeyChars:
Semi-natural habitats are generally confined to rough moorland grazing in the north and west.


FG KeyChar:
•	Catterick military camp, developed in the twentieth century, together with the ‘golf balls’ of the military installation at Menwith Hill, are prominent features.
•	The area has a number of small, historic market towns including Kirkby Malzeard, Middleham, Masham, Richmond and Barnard Castle, as well as the spa town of Harrogate.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	Catterick military camp, developed in the twentieth century, together with the ‘golf balls’ of the military installation at Menwith Hill, are prominent features.
•	The area has a number of small, historic market towns including Kirkby Malzeard, Middleham, Masham, Richmond and Barnard Castle, as well as the spa town of Harrogate.


FG KeyChar:
•	The Pennine Dales Fringe is underlain by resistant Millstone Grit which dips gently to the east, forming the eastern flank of the Pennines.  The flanks are dissected by a series of river valleys including those of the Tees, Ure, Nidd and Wharf.
•	The area is generally orientated eastwards, the moorlands of the Pennines forming a physical and visual barrier to the east.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	The Pennine Dales Fringe is underlain by resistant Millstone Grit which dips gently to the east, forming the eastern flank of the Pennines.  The flanks are dissected by a series of river valleys including those of the Tees, Ure, Nidd and Wharf.
•	The area is generally orientated eastwards, the moorlands of the Pennines forming a physical and visual barrier to the east.


FG KeyChar:
•	The area is comparatively well-wooded in contrast to the open landscapes to the west.  Woodland is found along valley slopes, in copses and plantations in the lower agricultural landscape and along hedgerows. Many of the larger coniferous and mixed woodlands are found on estates.  Some lower lying, arable areas in the north east of the area have lower levels of tree cover.

Edited_KeyChars:
Woodland is found along valley slopes, in copses and plantations in the lower agricultural landscape, along hedgerows and in parkland.


FG KeyChar:
•	To the west is a broad area of open arable and mixed farmland, large in scale, with limited hedgerow trees of ash and sycamore.
•	To the north the land rises gently and is more undulating with permanent pastures and leys grazed by sheep and cattle.
•	To the south is an attractive, rolling, mixed farming landscape on the edge of the Vale of Mowbray and the North York Moors National Park.

Edited_KeyChars:
Open arable and mixed farmland to the west, permanent pasture in the north, and mixed farming in the south.


FG KeyChar:
•	Traditional buildings are generally of sandstone or brick with red pantiles.

Edited_KeyChars:
Traditional buildings are generally of sandstone or brick with red pantiles.


FG KeyChar:
•	At the mouth of the River Tees are extensive mud flats, saltmarshes, wetlands, beaches and dunes such as Seal Sands, Cowpen Marshes and Seaton Sands.

Edited_KeyChars:
At the mouth of the River Tees are extensive mud flats, saltmarshes, wetlands, beaches and dunes.


FG KeyChar:
•	Large-scale chemical and oil refining works, docks and other heavy industries along the estuary form a distinctive skyline, and transport and infrastructure corridors are also prominent.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	Large-scale chemical and oil refining works, docks and other heavy industries along the estuary form a distinctive skyline, and transport and infrastructure corridors are also prominent.


FG KeyChar:
•	Skerne Carrs, near Sedgefield, is an extensive and distinctive area of essentially flat, peaty fenland and carrs with frequent watercourses.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	Skerne Carrs, near Sedgefield, is an extensive and distinctive area of essentially flat, peaty fenland and carrs with frequent watercourses.


FG KeyChar:
•	Minor valleys and linear strips of open land extend as green corridors from rural farmland into the heart of the conurbation.
•	Field boundaries are hawthorn hedges, usually low-cut
•	The semi-regular patterns of old (17th century) enclosures have been fragmented by field amalgamation.

Edited_KeyChars:
Field boundaries are hawthorn hedges, usually low-cut. 17th century field pattern are being lost to field amalgamation.


FG KeyChar:
•	This is a broad, low-lying plain of gently undulating or flat land on glacial clays, sands and gravels, with wide views to distant hills.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	This is a broad, low-lying plain of gently undulating or flat land on glacial clays, sands and gravels, with wide views to distant hills.


FG KeyChar:
•	The southern part of the area has a series of attractive Georgian market towns.

Edited_KeyChars:
Field patterns are the remnants of 17th century enclosures. Heavily wooded parkland and estates.


Edited_KeyChars:
Skerne Carrs is a distinctive area of essentially flat, peaty fenland and carrs with frequent watercourses. Mudflats, saltmarshes, wetlands and dunes are improtant for waders and wildfowl.


FG KeyChar:
•	There is a nucleated pattern of small green villages connected by winding lanes, and scattered farms.
•	The southern part of the area has a series of attractive Georgian market towns.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	There is a nucleated pattern of small green villages connected by winding lanes, and scattered farms.
•	The southern part of the area has a series of attractive Georgian market towns.


FG KeyChar:
•	This is a broad, low-lying plain of gently undulating or flat land on glacial clays, sands and gravels, with wide views to distant hills.
•	The meandering, slow-moving river Tees flows through the heart of the area, with distinctive incised meanders in its middle reaches.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	This is a broad, low-lying plain of gently undulating or flat land on glacial clays, sands and gravels, with wide views to distant hills.
•	The meandering, slow-moving river Tees flows through the heart of the area, with distinctive incised meanders in its middle reaches.


FG KeyChar:
•	Woodland cover is generally sparse, with exceptions such as the steep banks of the middle Tees and Leven, semi-natural woodland on heathy soils north of Billingham, and parkland and managed estates.
•	Orchards historically were important in the area south of the river Tees

Edited_KeyChars:
Woodland cover is generally sparse except for narrow riparian woods of willow and alder, and ancient oak woods on steep river banks. Semi-natural woodland found on parkland and managed estates as well as orchards. Hedgerow trees of oak, ash and sycamore.


FG KeyChar:
•	Agriculture is a combination of arable and mixed dairy and cropping with some poultry and pig rearing.  Agriculture tends to be more intensive in the south and west.

Edited_KeyChars:
Agriculture is a combination of arable and mixed dairy and cropping with some poultry and pig rearing, and is  more intensive in the south and west.


FG KeyChar:
•	Farmsteads and cottages, which are frequently prominent in this open landscape, tend to be built in local brick with pantile roofs.

Edited_KeyChars:
Buildings tend to be built in local brick with pantile roofs.


FG KeyChar:
•	The area includes the county town of Northallerton together with Thirsk.  Its lowland character means it has long been favoured as a transport route, and is crossed by the East Coast Mainline and the A1.  The area includes a number of active and disused airfields.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	The area includes the county town of Northallerton together with Thirsk.  Its lowland character means it has long been favoured as a transport route, and is crossed by the East Coast Mainline and the A1.  The area includes a number of active and disused airfields.


FG KeyChar:
•	The area is drained by the River Swale and its tributaries the River Wiske and the Cod Beck.  These watercourses meander within narrower valleys in the north and broader floodplains in the south.  The rivers are sometimes confined within flood defence embankments, particularly in the lower lying southern part of the Vale.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	The area is drained by the River Swale and its tributaries the River Wiske and the Cod Beck.  These watercourses meander within narrower valleys in the north and broader floodplains in the south.  The rivers are sometimes confined within flood defence embankments, particularly in the lower lying southern part of the Vale.


FG KeyChar:
•	Most fields are medium sized, though they tend to be larger in the south and west.  Boundaries are defined by low hedges or post and wire fences.

Edited_KeyChars:
Most fields are medium sized, but larger in the south and west. Boundaries are defined by low hedges or post and wire fences.


FG KeyChar:
•	The Vale of Mowbray is a low lying area underlain by Triassic sandstones and mudstones blanketed by a thick layer of glacial boulder clay with moraines and ridges of sands and gravels.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	The Vale of Mowbray is a low lying area underlain by Triassic sandstones and mudstones blanketed by a thick layer of glacial boulder clay with moraines and ridges of sands and gravels.


FG KeyChar:
•	Unlike surrounding upland areas where change has been slow and many historic sites have survived, the Vale of Mowbray has comparatively few historic sites, reflecting the processes of enclosure and drainage that took place in the 18th and 19th centuries.

Edited_KeyChars:
Number of parklands. Few historic sites, reflecting the processes of enclosure and drainage that took place in the 18th and 19th centuries.


FG KeyChar:
•	Semi-natural habitats are few, tending to be limited to areas of riparian rough grazing, particularly in rivers’ more northerly sections.

Edited_KeyChars:
Semi-natural habitats are limited to areas of riparian rough grazing, particularly in rivers’ more northerly sections.


FG KeyChar:
•	Villages, which are often located on higher ground, tend to be linear in form.  Some have village greens and many have churches with spire or towers, providing landmarks in the wider landscape.
•	The area includes the county town of Northallerton together with Thirsk.  Its lowland character means it has long been favoured as a transport route, and is crossed by the East Coast Mainline and the A1.  The area includes a number of active and disused airfields.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	Villages, which are often located on higher ground, tend to be linear in form.  Some have village greens and many have churches with spire or towers, providing landmarks in the wider landscape.
•	The area includes the county town of Northallerton together with Thirsk.  Its lowland character means it has long been favoured as a transport route, and is crossed by the East Coast Mainline and the A1.  The area includes a number of active and disused airfields.


FG KeyChar:
•	The area is flatter in the south and west (formed on glacial lake deposits) and more undulating in the east, marking the transition to the North Yorkshire Moors.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	The area is flatter in the south and west (formed on glacial lake deposits) and more undulating in the east, marking the transition to the North Yorkshire Moors.


FG KeyChar:
•	Tree cover is generally sparse, comprising small woodlands (many associated with hunting) and a number of parklands.  The eastern part of the area is more wooded

Edited_KeyChars:
Tree cover is generally sparse, with small woodlands and a number of parklands.  The eastern part of the area is more wooded


FG KeyChar:
•	Agriculture comprises rough grazing on the higher moorlands, mixed, predominantly pastoral farming in the Dales and arable on the lighter soils of lower areas to the south.

Edited_KeyChars:
Rough grazing on the higher moorlands, mixed, predominantly pastoral farming in the Dales and arable to the south.


FG KeyChar:
•	Most historic buildings are constructed in rubble limestone or dressed sandstone with red pantile or slate roofs.

Edited_KeyChars:
Most historic buildings are constructed in rubble limestone or dressed sandstone with red pantile or slate roofs.


FG KeyChar:
•	The upland reaches the coast to form one of the highest stretches of cliffs in England.  These cliffs are punctuated by sandy or rocky bays.   Most rivers flow south, east or north east, radiating out from the upland mass.

Edited_KeyChars:
The upland coast is one of the highest stretches of cliffs in England.  These cliffs are punctuated by sandy or rocky bays.


Edited_KeyChars:
•	The upland reaches the coast to form one of the highest stretches of cliffs in England.  These cliffs are punctuated by sandy or rocky bays.   Most rivers flow south, east or north east, radiating out from the upland mass.


FG KeyChar:
•	The pattern of field boundaries varies across the area with a combination of stone walls in the Dales (smaller around villages, larger on the hillslopes) and hedges in lower areas.  Many have deteriorated and have been replaced or supplemented by fences.  The higher moorland areas are largely unenclosed.

Edited_KeyChars:
Field boundaries vary with  stone walls in the Dales and hedges in lower areas.  Many hedges have been replaced or supplemented by fences.  The higher moorland areas are largely unenclosed.


FG KeyChar:
•	The area is underlain by sandstones and mudstones from the Middle Jurassic in the north and sandstones and limestone from the Upper Jurassic in the south.  Shales from the Lower Jurassic (with alum, jet and cement stone) are revealed along the coast and where rivers have eroded deep valleys.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	The area is underlain by sandstones and mudstones from the Middle Jurassic in the north and sandstones and limestone from the Upper Jurassic in the south.  Shales from the Lower Jurassic (with alum, jet and cement stone) are revealed along the coast and where rivers have eroded deep valleys.


FG KeyChar:
•	The higher moorland represents the most extensive area of heather moorland in England and Wales.

Edited_KeyChars:
The higher moorland is the most extensive area of heather moorland in England and Wales.


FG KeyChar:
•	Within the upland dales and along the coast, settlement tends to be nucleated.  Elsewhere it is typically more dispersed with a scatter of farmsteads and roadside cottages.  Small fishing villages cling to steep valley sides.
•	The area includes industrial facilities such as the potash works at Boulby and the military communications infrastructure at Fylingdales.  Large caravan parks are found along the coast and tourism is an important part of the economy of settlements such as Whitby, Scarborough and Saltburn.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	Within the upland dales and along the coast, settlement tends to be nucleated.  Elsewhere it is typically more dispersed with a scatter of farmsteads and roadside cottages.  Small fishing villages cling to steep valley sides.
•	The area includes industrial facilities such as the potash works at Boulby and the military communications infrastructure at Fylingdales.  Large caravan parks are found along the coast and tourism is an important part of the economy of settlements such as Whitby, Scarborough and Saltburn.


FG KeyChar:
•	The landform is dominated by a high moorland plateau which is tilted to the south, creating a steep escarpment along its northern edge and more gentle, though still pronounced slopes along the Vale of Pickering to the south.  The Cleveland Hills blend into the Hambledon Hills to the south and the North York Moors to the east.  Outlying hills to the north include the distinctive landmark of Roseberry Topping.
•	The high moorland is dissected by a series of dales, deepened by glacial meltwaters.  These dales are generally broad and sweeping but are steep sided in places.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	The landform is dominated by a high moorland plateau which is tilted to the south, creating a steep escarpment along its northern edge and more gentle, though still pronounced slopes along the Vale of Pickering to the south.  The Cleveland Hills blend into the Hambledon Hills to the south and the North York Moors to the east.  Outlying hills to the north include the distinctive landmark of Roseberry Topping.
•	The high moorland is dissected by a series of dales, deepened by glacial meltwaters.  These dales are generally broad and sweeping but are steep sided in places.


FG KeyChar:
•	Whilst the higher moors are mainly treeless, broadleaf woodlands are found in the sheltered dales and lower areas to the south.  Extensive areas of coniferous plantations are located on the lower areas of moorland.

Edited_KeyChars:
Higher moors are mainly treeless, broadleaf woodlands are found in the sheltered dales and lower areas to the south.


FG KeyChar:
•	Agriculture reflects the difference in soils within the vale.  To the east, arable farming dominates, with large rectilinear fields enclosed by low hedges having been created as the wetlands were drained.  Pastures are found along some of the river floodplains.  The west is characterised by mixed farming with a higher proportion of pastures.

Edited_KeyChars:
Arable farming dominates in the east. Pastures are found along some of the river floodplains.  The west is mixed farming with a higher proportion of pastures.


FG KeyChar:
•	Traditional buildings are constructed of brick or sandstone imported from surrounding uplands.  Most historic buildings are roofed using pantiles, though many were originally thatched.

Edited_KeyChars:
Buildings are constructed brick or sandstone from uplands.  Most historic buildings are roofed using pantiles.


JM KeyChar:
•	The coastal landscape along the eastern edge of the area has a different character from the rest of the vale, with beaches, cliffs, short coastal stream valleys and the rock spit of Filey Brig.

Edited_KeyChars:
The coast has cliffs, beaches, short  coastal stream valleys and the rock spit of Filey Brig.


FG KeyChar:
•	There are relatively few urban or industrial influences on the landscape  The principal settlements include Pickering, Norton, Eastfield and Filey.  The Scarborough to York railway line crosses the area.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	There are relatively few urban or industrial influences on the landscape  The principal settlements include Pickering, Norton, Eastfield and Filey.  The Scarborough to York railway line crosses the area.


FG KeyChar:
•	Rivers include the River Derwent which flows south westwards along the Vale, cutting through the Howardian Hills to the south.  A series of tributaries drain higher ground to the north and west.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	Rivers include the River Derwent which flows south westwards along the Vale, cutting through the Howardian Hills to the south.  A series of tributaries drain higher ground to the north and west.


FG KeyChar:
•	Field boundaries comprise a combination of low hedges and, particularly in lower parts of the eastern Vale, drained ditches and dykes.  Fences are common where hedges have declined or been lost.

Edited_KeyChars:
Large rectilinear fields in the south are mainly bound by low hedges, drainage ditches and dykes. There are fences where hedges have declined/disappeared.


FG KeyChar:
•	Although the Vale of Pickering is underlain by Kimmeridge Clay, buried deeply beneath layers of glacial and fluvial clays and sands.  The flatter and more low lying areas, with peaty soils, are found in the eastern part of the Vale.  The western part is more undulating in nature with clay soils.  An area of glacial moraine along the coast forms a further area of undulating land.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	Although the Vale of Pickering is underlain by Kimmeridge Clay, buried deeply beneath layers of glacial and fluvial clays and sands.  The flatter and more low lying areas, with peaty soils, are found in the eastern part of the Vale.  The western part is more undulating in nature with clay soils.  An area of glacial moraine along the coast forms a further area of undulating land.


FG KeyChar:
•	The Vale is rich in historic features including the remains of Mesolithic settlements where archaeological finds have been preserved in waterlogged conditions.  The Vale also includes Neolithic sites (earthen long barrows) and Bronze and Iron Age sites around the fringes.  Medieval sites include castles, fortified manor houses and churches, together with medieval strip fields.  17th and 18th century country houses and designed landscapes are also key features.

Edited_KeyChars:
17th and 18th century country houses and designed landscapes are key features. Preserved historic remains from prehistory to medieval times.


FG KeyChar:
•	Historic linear settlements are located above the flood level close to springs and shallow wells, with long thin burgage plots running back from the main street.  On the higher ground, settlement is a dispersed pattern of cottages, small hamlets and farmsteads.  Villages are linked by a network of straight roads and tracks.
•	There are relatively few urban or industrial influences on the landscape  The principal settlements include Pickering, Norton, Eastfield and Filey.  The Scarborough to York railway line crosses the area.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	Historic linear settlements are located above the flood level close to springs and shallow wells, with long thin burgage plots running back from the main street.  On the higher ground, settlement is a dispersed pattern of cottages, small hamlets and farmsteads.  Villages are linked by a network of straight roads and tracks.
•	There are relatively few urban or industrial influences on the landscape  The principal settlements include Pickering, Norton, Eastfield and Filey.  The Scarborough to York railway line crosses the area.


FG KeyChar:
•	Woodland cover is limited in the lower lying eastern part of the Vale, but is more extensive in western areas and around the fringes with copses and more field boundary trees.

Edited_KeyChars:
Woodland cover is limited in the lower lying eastern part of the Vale, but is more extensive in western areas with copses, carr woodlands and more field boundary trees (oak, ash and holly).


FG KeyChar:
•	The fertile, chalky soils support mainly arable farming, though there are remnants of unimproved or semi-improved chalk grassland in steep side dry valleys defined by a hedge at the break of slope.

Edited_KeyChars:
The fertile, chalky soils support mainly arable farming. Some intensive livestock rearing.


FG KeyChar:
•	This is a generally lightly settled landscape with predominantly brick - but sometimes chalk and pantile - buildings, large scattered farmsteads on high ground, small villages in valleys, and small market towns at the fringes.

Edited_KeyChars:
Predominantly brick buildings, but sometimes chalk and pantile.


FG KeyChar:
•	Rivers and streams are few on the permeable in chalk, being limited to a number of short streams draining steep valleys along the escarpment and the Gypsey Race which runs through the Great Wolds Valley near Bridlington.  The Wolds rise from the Humber estuary in the south and form high chalk cliffs where they reach the coast at Flamborough Head.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	Rivers and streams are few on the permeable in chalk, being limited to a number of short streams draining steep valleys along the escarpment and the Gypsey Race which runs through the Great Wolds Valley near Bridlington.  The Wolds rise from the Humber estuary in the south and form high chalk cliffs where they reach the coast at Flamborough Head.


FG KeyChar:
•	A combination of hedges and fences enclose large, regular shaped fields dating back to Parliamentary enclosure.

Edited_KeyChars:
A combination of hedges and fences enclose large, regular shaped fields dating back to Parliamentary enclosure.


FG KeyChar:
•	The Yorkshire Wolds are underlain by Chalk with some small areas of Jurassic Rocks along their western fringe.  The chalk is reflected in the steep and prominent north and west facing escarpment and a more gently rolling, east and south facing dip slope.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	The Yorkshire Wolds are underlain by Chalk with some small areas of Jurassic Rocks along their western fringe.  The chalk is reflected in the steep and prominent north and west facing escarpment and a more gently rolling, east and south facing dip slope.


JM KeyChar:
•	Notable historic landscape features include extensive evidence of prehistoric settlement, high concentrations of deserted medieval villages such as Wharram Percy, and large estates and parks such as Sledmere developed from the 18th century onwards.

Edited_KeyChars:
Large estates and parks from 18th century onwards. Extensive evidence of prehistoric settlement and deserted medieval villages.


Edited_KeyChars:
Remnants of unimproved or semi-improved chalk grassland in steep side dry valleys. Remnant heath on fringes.


Edited_KeyChars:
•	This is a generally lightly settled landscape with predominantly brick - but sometimes chalk and pantile - buildings, large scattered farmsteads on high ground, small villages in valleys, and small market towns at the fringes.


FG KeyChar:
•	The Yorkshire Wolds are underlain by Chalk with some small areas of Jurassic Rocks along their western fringe.  The chalk is reflected in the steep and prominent north and west facing escarpment and a more gently rolling, east and south facing dip slope.
•	This is a large-scale landscape with big skies and long views from the escarpment and plateaux which contrast with the more enclosed chalk valleys.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	The Yorkshire Wolds are underlain by Chalk with some small areas of Jurassic Rocks along their western fringe.  The chalk is reflected in the steep and prominent north and west facing escarpment and a more gently rolling, east and south facing dip slope.
•	This is a large-scale landscape with big skies and long views from the escarpment and plateaux which contrast with the more enclosed chalk valleys.


FG KeyChar:
•	Woodland is limited in extent, particularly on the chalk.  Most woodland is confined to steeper slopes, including escarpments and on the hills formed from Jurassic rocks.  Woodland is also associated with historic parklands.  Most woodland is broadleaf.

Edited_KeyChars:
Most woodland is broadleaved, and confined to steeper slopes, including escarpments. Woodland is also associated with historic parklands.


FG KeyChar:
•	Some areas of heathland remain on poorer, sandy soils where agricultural improvement has not occurred.  Some of these heathy areas have been afforested.  Washlands and hay meadows are found along the river floodplains.


FG KeyChar:
•	The Vale of York includes the floodplains of several major rivers, notably the Ouse, the Derwent and the Wharfe, but also the Ure, Nidd and Foss.  Most historic buildings are constructed in mottled brick with pantile roofs.


FG KeyChar:
•	The City of York provides a visual focus for the Vale.  Roads radiate from the city while the Minster provides a focal point for the surrounding area.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	The City of York provides a visual focus for the Vale.  Roads radiate from the city while the Minster provides a focal point for the surrounding area.


Edited_KeyChars:
•	The Vale of York includes the floodplains of several major rivers, notably the Ouse, the Derwent and the Wharfe, but also the Ure, Nidd and Foss.  Most historic buildings are constructed in mottled brick with pantile roofs.


FG KeyChar:
•	Low, flailed and intermittent hedges enclose medium to large sized fields.  There are scattered field boundary trees.


FG KeyChar:
•	The solid geology of the Vale of York comprises Triassic sandstone and mudstone and Lower Jurassic mudstone completely buried beneath glacial till, sand, gravel and moraines. These moraines form a number of curving ridges across the Vale.  The northern part of the Vale is underlain by glacial clay, sand and gravel.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	The solid geology of the Vale of York comprises Triassic sandstone and mudstone and Lower Jurassic mudstone completely buried beneath glacial till, sand, gravel and moraines. These moraines form a number of curving ridges across the Vale.  The northern part of the Vale is underlain by glacial clay, sand and gravel.


JM KeyChar:
•	Key historic landscape features include Roman remains, early timber frame buildings, designed parklands and fine masonry bridges.


FG KeyChar:
•	Settlements are distinctive with a linear form with buildings set back behind wide grass verges.  The Vale is scattered with large, brick built farmsteads.
•	The City of York provides a visual focus for the Vale.  Roads radiate from the city while the Minster provides a focal point for the surrounding area.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	Settlements are distinctive with a linear form with buildings set back behind wide grass verges.  The Vale is scattered with large, brick built farmsteads.
•	The City of York provides a visual focus for the Vale.  Roads radiate from the city while the Minster provides a focal point for the surrounding area.


FG KeyChar:
•	Scattered small woods with more extensive conifer plantations are found on sandy soils, together creating the impression of more wooded farmland in some areas.


FG KeyChar:
•	The area is predominantly under arable cultivation with some areas of pastures and improved grassland.  The latter are most common on steeper slopes and damper valley floors.

Edited_KeyChars:
Mainly arable cultivation with some areas of pastures and improved grassland.  The latter are most common on steeper slopes and damper valley floors.


FG KeyChar:
•	Buildings are constructed in local limestone and sandstone with red pantile roofs.  The stones vary in colour from rich reds to pale creams.

Edited_KeyChars:
Buildings are constructed in local limestone and sandstone with red pantile roofs.


FG KeyChar:
•	The area includes the headwaters of rivers draining the Vale of Pickering, to the east and the Vale of York to the west.  The river Derwent cuts a deep gorge through the hills to the south west of Malton.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	The area includes the headwaters of rivers draining the Vale of Pickering, to the east and the Vale of York to the west.  The river Derwent cuts a deep gorge through the hills to the south west of Malton.


FG KeyChar:
•	Field boundaries are predominantly hedges with some fences and some areas of walls in higher areas.

Edited_KeyChars:
Field boundaries are predominantly hedges with some fences and walls in higher areas.


FG KeyChar:
•	The Howardian Hills are formed from the sandstones and mudstones of the Middle Jurassic period and the calcareous sandstone and limestone of the Upper Jurassic.  Numerous east west faults cross the hills, giving rise to irregular ridges and valleys.  Prominent scarps of limestone are notable features along the outermost ridges.  Glacial drift deposits contribute to the more undulating landform in the south and west.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	The Howardian Hills are formed from the sandstones and mudstones of the Middle Jurassic period and the calcareous sandstone and limestone of the Upper Jurassic.  Numerous east west faults cross the hills, giving rise to irregular ridges and valleys.  Prominent scarps of limestone are notable features along the outermost ridges.  Glacial drift deposits contribute to the more undulating landform in the south and west.


FG KeyChar:
•	Historic sites date back the Bronze Age. 17th and 18th century enclosure created the straight sided, rectangular fields characteristic to the area. 18th century country houses and ornamental houses, such as Castle Howard, are key historic features.

Edited_KeyChars:
18th century country houses and associated designed landscapes and field patterns are key historic features.


FG KeyChar:
•	Semi-natural habitats principally comprise areas of woodland and unimproved grassland.

Edited_KeyChars:
Limited semi-natural habitat of woodland and unimproved grassland.


FG KeyChar:
•	Many villages are linear in form with wide verges forming village greens.  In other villages, houses are clustered around a single village green. The simplicity and scale of these villages contrasts with the grandeur of the area’s many stately homes.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	Many villages are linear in form with wide verges forming village greens.  In other villages, houses are clustered around a single village green. The simplicity and scale of these villages contrasts with the grandeur of the area’s many stately homes.


FG KeyChar:
•	Varied patterns of woodland create a contrasting landscape, the principal contrast being between the sheltered valleys with their extensive areas of broadleaved woodlands and parkland landscapes, and the much more open plateau areas characterised by woodland blocks and large scale plantations.  Alder woodlands remain a feature of damper valley bottoms.

Edited_KeyChars:
Varied woodland cover, with extensive broadleaved woodlands and parkland landscapes in valleys and woodland blocks and plantations on plateaus.


FG KeyChar:
•	Most of the farming in the area is intensive and arable.  Small areas of permanent pasture exist, especially on steeper slopes or in the narrow valley bottoms, comprising a characteristic component of the landscape.

Edited_KeyChars:
Mostly intensive arable
Distinctive small areas of permanent pasture on steeper slopes and in narrow valley bottoms


FG KeyChar:
•	The creamy white Magnesium Limestone is widely used in local buildings,occasionally combined with brick or stone cobbles, and the roofing material is commonly red pantiles.

Edited_KeyChars:
Creamy white Magnesian Limestone widely used locally, occasionally with brick or stone cobbles
Roofing material commonly red pantiles


FG KeyChar:
The ridge is cut in several places along its length by a series of rivers, some with dramatic river gorges, including Nidd Gorge at Knaresborough.  The waterbodies of recently restored mineral workings form a feature in the landscape south of Ripon.

Edited_KeyChars:
The ridge is cut in several places along its length by a series of rivers, some with dramatic river gorges, including Nidd Gorge at Knaresborough.  The waterbodies of recently restored mineral workings form a feature in the landscape south of Ripon.


FG KeyChar:
•	The field boundaries are usually low, flailed thorn hedges, although stone walls also occur in many places.  Hedges often follow the topography and serve to emphasise the smooth, rolling landform.  Hedgerow trees are relatively sparse which adds to the open character of farmed landscapes.

Edited_KeyChars:
Low, flailed thorn hedges with few hedgerow trees
Hedges that follow landform, emphasising smooth, rolling form
Stone walls also common


FG KeyChar:
•	The area is underlain by predominantly Magnesium Limestone geology which is covered in many places by drift deposits.  This forms an escarpment in the west and a gently dipping landform in the east.  Coal deposits are found in the west along with the associated spoil tips, mineral lines and stocking areas.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	The area is underlain by predominantly Magnesium Limestone geology which is covered in many places by drift deposits.  This forms an escarpment in the west and a gently dipping landform in the east.  Coal deposits are found in the west along with the associated spoil tips, mineral lines and stocking areas.


FG KeyChar:
•	The landscape has been influenced by the Roman occupation, with Ermine Street and Dere Street forming the basis for much of the route of the modern A1.  Country houses and designed parklands along the ridge have an important influence on the landscape.

Edited_KeyChars:
Roman influence of Ermine Street and Dere Street, basis of much of modern A1
Country houses and designed parklands along the ridge
Water features - unknown but possibly farm ponds or features within parkland


FG KeyChar:
•	Semi-natural ancient woodlands are key habitats, found on the ridge, hill tops, steeper slopes and along small valleys.

Edited_KeyChars:
Remnant limestone grasslands at risk from agricultural intensification
Remnant valley wetlands


FG KeyChar:
•	The landscape has been influenced by the Roman occupation, with Ermine Street and Dere Street forming the basis for much of the route of the modern A1.  Country houses and designed parklands along the ridge have an important influence on the landscape.
•	The settlement pattern varies from large scattered farmsteads and small nucleated villages to larger towns on the plateau. The area is more heavily settled near Nottingham, where there is also a greater intensity of industrial activity. 
•	Limestone quarrying influences the landscape, especially in the central and southern parts of the ridge.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	The landscape has been influenced by the Roman occupation, with Ermine Street and Dere Street forming the basis for much of the route of the modern A1.  Country houses and designed parklands along the ridge have an important influence on the landscape.
•	The settlement pattern varies from large scattered farmsteads and small nucleated villages to larger towns on the plateau. The area is more heavily settled near Nottingham, where there is also a greater intensity of industrial activity. 
•	Limestone quarrying influences the landscape, especially in the central and southern parts of the ridge.


FG KeyChar:
•	Woodland cover is significant - mainly due to the presence of a number of large country houses and their managed estates - with extensive areas of estate woodlands, plantations and game coverts.  There are also a number of semi-natural, sometimes ancient woodlands on the ridge, sometimes on hill tops or steeper slopes and also along small valleys.

Edited_KeyChars:
Extensive areas of estate woodland, plantation and game covert
Semi-natural/ ancient woodlands on ridge, hilltops and steeper slopes and along small valleys
In-field trees


FG KeyChar:
•	The inland plain comprises improved pasture which is grazed by dairy cattle.  The poorer draining clays and coastal marsh areas are grazed by cattle and sheep.  Drained areas of moss and coastal plain are under arable cultivation or intensive market gardening.

Edited_KeyChars:
Sheep and cattle grazing on poorly drained clays/ coastal marsh
Arable and market gardening on drained mosses/ coastal plain
Dairy cattle on improved pasture inland


FG KeyChar:
•	Most traditional buildings are constructed of red brick.

Edited_KeyChars:
Traditional buildings mainly of red brick


FG KeyChar:
•	Along the coast, the foreshore comprises extensive intertidal mudflats and sand banks, backed by saltmarsh with a seaward edge characterised by dendretic creeks and low cliffs
•	Caravan parks and other holiday related developments are found along the coast.

Edited_KeyChars:
Extensive intertidal mudflats and sand banks, backed by saltmarsh, dendritic creeks and low cliffs


FG KeyChar:
•	Trees are scarce in this low landscape, generally confined to low, often wind sculpted trees and bushes along field boundaries.  
•	The large rectilinear pastoral fields are defined by drainage ditches, low hedgerows and, in some higher areas, drystone walls.

Edited_KeyChars:
Large rectilinear pastures enclosed by drainage ditches and low hedgerows
Drystone walls in some higher areas


FG KeyChar:
•	The area is underlain by Triassic mudstones and sandstones which are buried beneath glacial deposits of boulder clay and marine alluvium.  A carboniferous Millstone Grit Sandstones outcrop is found at Heysham Head, creating cliffs and a rocky foreshore.  Drumlins characterise much of the area - drowned in places where they meet the coast.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	The area is underlain by Triassic mudstones and sandstones which are buried beneath glacial deposits of boulder clay and marine alluvium.  A carboniferous Millstone Grit Sandstones outcrop is found at Heysham Head, creating cliffs and a rocky foreshore.  Drumlins characterise much of the area - drowned in places where they meet the coast.


FG KeyChar:
•	The area includes the former county town of Lancaster and the seaside town of Morecombe.  It also has a range of industrial influences including iron work, landfilling and the nuclear power station at Heysham.

JM KeyChar:
•	Historic landscape features include early churches, drainage works and canals.

Edited_KeyChars:
Historic landscape features that include early churches, drainage works and canals


FG KeyChar:
•	Most areas of moss have been drained and improved for agriculture, though some areas of moss, comprising raised mire, remain near Heysham and are valued semi-natural habitats.

Edited_KeyChars:
Some surviving areas of moss (raised mire) near Heysham


FG KeyChar:
•	The area includes the former county town of Lancaster and the seaside town of Morecombe.  It also has a range of industrial influences including iron work, landfilling and the nuclear power station at Heysham.
•	Caravan parks and other holiday related developments are found along the coast.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	The area includes the former county town of Lancaster and the seaside town of Morecombe.  It also has a range of industrial influences including iron work, landfilling and the nuclear power station at Heysham.
•	Caravan parks and other holiday related developments are found along the coast.


FG KeyChar:
•	Trees are scarce in this low landscape, generally confined to low, often wind sculpted trees and bushes along field boundaries.

Edited_KeyChars:
Tree cover limited to low, often wind sculpted trees and bushes along field boundaries


FG KeyChar:
•	Medium to large fields form an open, large-scale agricultural landscape with a rich patchwork of lush pasture and arable land.  Localised areas of intensive market gardening provide seasonally varied colours and textures.

Edited_KeyChars:
Patchwork of lush pasture and arable land
Issue of loss of permananent and wet grassland
Seasonally varied colours and textures from market gardening


FG KeyChar:
•	Isolated brick farmsteads occur in rural areas.


FG KeyChar:
•	There is a high density of field ponds, salt marshes are prominent at the heads of estuaries and sand dunes occur along some sections of the coast.

Edited_KeyChars:
Salt marshes prominent at the heads of estuaries
Sand dunes along some sections of the coast


FG KeyChar:
•	The complex network of raised drainage ditches and dykes with localised reedbeds is a reminder of the area’s heritage of wetland reclamation.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	The complex network of raised drainage ditches and dykes with localised reedbeds is a reminder of the area’s heritage of wetland reclamation.


FG KeyChar:
•	Designed landscapes associated with large houses are locally common in the south, where they provide enclosure in an otherwise open landscape.
•	A rectilinear network of lanes and tracks, usually without fences or hedges, subdivides the landscape.
•	Medium to large fields form an open, large-scale agricultural landscape with a rich patchwork of lush pasture and arable land.  Localised areas of intensive market gardening provide seasonally varied colours and textures.

Edited_KeyChars:
Medium to large rectilinear fields usually without fences or hedges
Issue of hedgerow neglect and removal
Complex network of raised drainage ditches and dykes


FG KeyChar:
•	It is thickly blanketed by glacial till, with poorly-drained peat-filled hollows that give rise to mosses and meres.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	It is thickly blanketed by glacial till, with poorly-drained peat-filled hollows that give rise to mosses and meres.


Edited_KeyChars:
Heritage of wetland reclamation
Designed landscapes associated with large houses locally common in south
Many meres and field ponds (former brick and marl pits) - at risk of drainage


FG KeyChar:
•	Designed landscapes associated with large houses are locally common in the south, where they provide enclosure in an otherwise open landscape.
•	Isolated brick farmsteads occur in rural areas.
•	Urban settlement is concentrated in the planned Victorian coastal resorts and inland towns.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	Designed landscapes associated with large houses are locally common in the south, where they provide enclosure in an otherwise open landscape.
•	Isolated brick farmsteads occur in rural areas.
•	Urban settlement is concentrated in the planned Victorian coastal resorts and inland towns.


FG KeyChar:
•	This is a relatively flat and gently rolling plain, broken by isolated hills such as Parbold Hill, Beacon Park and Ashurst’s Beacon.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	This is a relatively flat and gently rolling plain, broken by isolated hills such as Parbold Hill, Beacon Park and Ashurst’s Beacon.


FG KeyChar:
•	There are extensive views across the plain, within which small to medium blocks of mixed woodland (wind-sculpted near coast) provide punctuation and vertical accents.

Edited_KeyChars:
Open landscape with prominent small to medium blocks of mixed woodland (wind-sculpted near coast) that are important landmarks
Occasional hedgerow trees


FG KeyChar:
•	Land use is mainly permanent, improved pasture for dairy and livestock farming.

Edited_KeyChars:
Land use is mainly permanent, improved pasture for dairy and livestock farming. On higher ground, hay meadows and rough grazing.


FG KeyChar:
•	Traditional stone barns are commonplace on higher ground and are of stone with stone flag or slate roofs.

Edited_KeyChars:
Traditional barns made of stone with stone flag or slate roofs.


FG KeyChar:
•	Meandering and commonly tree-fringed rivers with ox-bow lakes are prominent features within the landscape.
•	Meandering and commonly tree-fringed rivers with ox-bow lakes are prominent features within the landscape.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	Meandering and commonly tree-fringed rivers with ox-bow lakes are prominent features within the landscape.
•	Meandering and commonly tree-fringed rivers with ox-bow lakes are prominent features within the landscape.


FG KeyChar:
•	Isolated country houses set in well-maintained formal parkland are typical of the area and may be enclosed by belts of woodland and estate fencing.
•	Metal railings around estate boundaries are characteristic of the southern and western edges of the Character Area.
•	Medium- to small-scale fields are defined by hedgerows with mature hedgerow trees, growth of which is particularly vigorous in the north. Dry stone walls are also common in some areas.

Edited_KeyChars:
Medium to small-scale fields defined by hedgerows with mature hedgerow trees,  particularly in the north. Dry stone walls are also common in some areas. Metal railings around estate boundaries are characteristic.


FG KeyChar:
•	On the northern edge of the area drumlins are characteristic while on the south, strong, mounded outcrops or ‘reef knolls’ of limestone form distinct landscape features in the Ribble and Hodder valleys

Edited_KeyChars:
•	On the northern edge of the area drumlins are characteristic while on the south, strong, mounded outcrops or ‘reef knolls’ of limestone form distinct landscape features in the Ribble and Hodder valleys


FG KeyChar:
•	Isolated country houses set in well-maintained formal parkland are typical of the area and may be enclosed by belts of woodland and estate fencing.

JM KeyChar:
•	Country house estates, often with well wooded parkland, are commonplace.  Small mill settlements, lead mining remains and derelict lime kilns along the Ribble Valley are also characteristic features.

Edited_KeyChars:
Country house estates with well maintained wooded parkland are common. Remains of mining and mill activities and settlement.


FG KeyChar:
•	Semi-natural woodland, much of which is ancient, occurs on the main valley bottoms, side valleys and ridges, and is dominated by oak, ash and alder.
•	There are lush hay meadows and some rough grazing at higher elevations.

Edited_KeyChars:
Herb rich hay meadows and moorland grasses on higher ground. Semi natural acidic, neutral or wet grassland.


FG KeyChar:
•	A network of winding hedge-lined country lanes connects small, often linear, villages, hamlets and scattered farmsteads, mostly in local stone.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	A network of winding hedge-lined country lanes connects small, often linear, villages, hamlets and scattered farmsteads, mostly in local stone.


FG KeyChar:
•	This is an undulating, rolling landscape with local variation created by numerous river valleys and by the moorland outliers of Beacon Fell, Longridge Fell and Pendle Hill on the south side of the area.
•	On the northern edge of the area drumlins are characteristic while on the south, strong, mounded outcrops or ‘reef knolls’ of limestone form distinct landscape features in the Ribble and Hodder valleys

Edited_KeyChars:
•	This is an undulating, rolling landscape with local variation created by numerous river valleys and by the moorland outliers of Beacon Fell, Longridge Fell and Pendle Hill on the south side of the area.
•	On the northern edge of the area drumlins are characteristic while on the south, strong, mounded outcrops or ‘reef knolls’ of limestone form distinct landscape features in the Ribble and Hodder valleys


FG KeyChar:
•	Semi-natural woodland, much of which is ancient, occurs on the main valley bottoms, side valleys and ridges, and is dominated by oak, ash and alder.

Edited_KeyChars:
Semi-natural woodland, much of which is ancient, occurs on valley bottoms, side valleys and ridges, and is dominated by oak, ash and alder.
Mature hedgerow trees.


FG KeyChar:
•	The open, rolling heather moorland and blanket bog are managed for grouse shooting and grazed by sheep.

Edited_KeyChars:
Largely improved pasture grazed by sheep and moorland managed for grouse shooting.


FG KeyChar:
•	Traditional farmhouses are generally of gritstone and typically shelter a barn under the same roof line (laithe houses).

Edited_KeyChars:
Traditional farmhouses are generally of gritstone and typically shelter a barn under the same roof line (laithe houses


FG KeyChar:
•	These upland pastures are criss-crossed by dry stone walls and grazed mainly by sheep, with some cattle.
•	Regular enclosures on higher ground where commons were systematically subdivided; more irregular enclosures are found on the slopes where there is also a complex system of narrow lanes with occasional wide historic drove roads.

Edited_KeyChars:
Fields are bound by dry stone walls, with more regular fields on higher ground becoming more irregular on the slopes.


FG KeyChar:
•	The dominant feature is the central upland core of Millstone Grit fells, with extensive tracts of heather moorland and blanket bog.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	The dominant feature is the central upland core of Millstone Grit fells, with extensive tracts of heather moorland and blanket bog.


FG KeyChar:
•	In medieval times the Bowland Fells was part of the Royal Forest of Lancaster, the top providing hunting ground for wolves, with deer on lower slopes.

Edited_KeyChars:
In medieval times the Bowland Fells was part of the Royal Forest of Lancaster, providing hunting ground for wolves and deer


FG KeyChar:
•	The moorland is ringed by enclosed, reclaimed moorland pasture with an attractive mosaic of woodland, unimproved meadows, pasture, marshes and streams.
•	High quality species-rich meadows can be found in the limestone areas to the east.

Edited_KeyChars:
Moorland with a mosaic of woodland, unimproved meadows, pasture, marshes and streams. Blanket bog with wet and dry heathland and acid grassland.  Species-rich meadows found in limestone areas to the east.


FG KeyChar:
•	There is a scattered settlement pattern, with picturesque stone villages and strong unity of building materials, styles and village form.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	There is a scattered settlement pattern, with picturesque stone villages and strong unity of building materials, styles and village form.


FG KeyChar:
•	The large-scale, sweeping landform of the Bowland Fells is incised by narrow, wooded, intimate valleys and cloughs.
•	The dominant feature is the central upland core of Millstone Grit fells, with extensive tracts of heather moorland and blanket bog.
•	However, physical harshness is tempered by the compactness of the topographical unit and its proximity to settlement.
•	Steeply sloping, sculptural escarpments and exposed moorland tops contrast with the surrounding lush green valleys of the Lune, Ribble, Hodder and Wyre, to which they are linked by the wooded cloughs.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	The large-scale, sweeping landform of the Bowland Fells is incised by narrow, wooded, intimate valleys and cloughs.
•	The dominant feature is the central upland core of Millstone Grit fells, with extensive tracts of heather moorland and blanket bog.
•	However, physical harshness is tempered by the compactness of the topographical unit and its proximity to settlement.
•	Steeply sloping, sculptural escarpments and exposed moorland tops contrast with the surrounding lush green valleys of the Lune, Ribble, Hodder and Wyre, to which they are linked by the wooded cloughs.


FG KeyChar:
•	Steeply sloping, sculptural escarpments and exposed moorland tops contrast with the surrounding lush green valleys of the Lune, Ribble, Hodder and Wyre, to which they are linked by the wooded cloughs.
•	Extensive coniferous plantations occur to the south-east and east of the area.
•	Small copses shelter the area’s isolated farmhouses.

Edited_KeyChars:
Semi-natural clough woodlands reflecting topography. Small copses on farmland and extensive conifer plantations to the east and south-east.


FG KeyChar:
•	There are remnants of agricultural land, fragmented by industry and scattered development.

Edited_KeyChars:
Most agriculture is large, semi-improved pasture for sheep and cattle grazing.


FG KeyChar:
•	The area’s many Victorian stone buildings and terraces are well-integrated into the landscape.
•	There is a strong industrial heritage associated with the textile industry, and redundant mill buildings, mill lodges and ponds are common.

Edited_KeyChars:
Victorian stone buildings and terraces and textile industry heritage.


FG KeyChar:
•	The towns of Blackburn, Accrington and Burnley give the area an intensely urban character, and numerous communication routes, including the Leeds and Liverpool Canal and the M65 motorway, run along the valleys.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	The towns of Blackburn, Accrington and Burnley give the area an intensely urban character, and numerous communication routes, including the Leeds and Liverpool Canal and the M65 motorway, run along the valleys.


FG KeyChar:
•	Field boundaries are regular to the west and irregular to the east, but are generally degraded around urban areas.
•	They are formed by hedges with few hedgerow trees, and by stone walls and post and wire fences at higher elevations.

Edited_KeyChars:
Field boundaries are regular to the west and irregular to the east, and are hedges with few hedgerow trees at lower elevation and gritstone walls and wire fences higher up.


FG KeyChar:
•	It lies within a broad trough underlain by coal measures, which provided the basis of for early industrialisation.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	It lies within a broad trough underlain by coal measures, which provided the basis of for early industrialisation.


FG KeyChar:
•	Numerous large country houses with associated parklands occur, particularly on the northern valley sides away from major urban areas.
•	There is a strong industrial heritage associated with the textile industry, and redundant mill buildings, mill lodges and ponds are common.

Edited_KeyChars:
Numerous large country houses with designed parklands occur, particularly on the northern valley sides. Historical textile industry remnants,


FG KeyChar:
•	Most land is pasture, with areas of acid and neutral grassland, flushes and mires.

Edited_KeyChars:
Heather moorland on hill tops. Areas of acid and neutral grassland, flushes and mires. Hay meadows with rushes and gorse on higher ground.


FG KeyChar:
•	The broad valley of the river Calder and its tributaries runs north-east to south-west between the backdrops of Pendle Hill and the southern Pennines.
•	This visually contained landscape would once have shared many characteristics with the rural valley of the river Ribble to the north but is now mainly urban.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	The broad valley of the river Calder and its tributaries runs north-east to south-west between the backdrops of Pendle Hill and the southern Pennines.
•	This visually contained landscape would once have shared many characteristics with the rural valley of the river Ribble to the north but is now mainly urban.


FG KeyChar:
•	Small, often ancient, woodlands of oak, alder and sycamore extend along narrow, steep-sided cloughs on the valley sides, for example at Priestley Clough and Spurn Clough and in the Darwen valley.

Edited_KeyChars:
Small, often ancient, woodlands of oak, alder and sycamore extend along narrow, steep-sided cloughs on the valley sides. Mature floodplain oak and ash trees.


FG KeyChar:
•	The main agricultural use is sheep grazing with improved grasslands on the valley floor, unimproved grassland on the valley sides and rough or moorland grazing on the upper slopes and moorland.

Edited_KeyChars:
Mainly sheep grazing with improved grasslands on the valley floor, unimproved grassland on the valley sides and rough or moorland grazing on the upper slopes and moorland.


FG KeyChar:
•	Buildings are constructed in local gritstone with slate roofs.

Edited_KeyChars:
Buildings are constructed in local gritstone with slate roofs.


FG KeyChar:
•	More recent influences include reservoirs, quarries (many now disused), transmission masts and windfarms.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	More recent influences include reservoirs, quarries (many now disused), transmission masts and windfarms.


FG KeyChar:
•	The area is crossed by a series of rivers including the Rivers Wharfe, Aire and Calder, together with many smaller tributaries such as the Irwell.  Reservoirs have been formed in the some of the upland valleys.  The Leeds and Liverpool Canal passes through the Aire Valley.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	The area is crossed by a series of rivers including the Rivers Wharfe, Aire and Calder, together with many smaller tributaries such as the Irwell.  Reservoirs have been formed in the some of the upland valleys.  The Leeds and Liverpool Canal passes through the Aire Valley.


FG KeyChar:
•	Stone walls enclose small to medium sized fields.

Edited_KeyChars:
Small to medium sized fields are mainnly enclosed by stone walls with hedges in some areas.


FG KeyChar:
•	Most of the Southern Pennines are underlain by Millstone Grit.  Layers have eroded at different rates, creating distinctive terraced landscape of plateaux and escarpments.  Isolated beds of sandstone form mesa-shaped hills across the area.  Coal measures are found over a much smaller area, and a narrow band of Carboniferous Limestone occurs in the north west. 
•	Soils reflect local deposits of boulder clay, sands and gravels and the creation of extensive areas of blanket bogs that cover the moorland summits.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	Most of the Southern Pennines are underlain by Millstone Grit.  Layers have eroded at different rates, creating distinctive terraced landscape of plateaux and escarpments.  Isolated beds of sandstone form mesa-shaped hills across the area.  Coal measures are found over a much smaller area, and a narrow band of Carboniferous Limestone occurs in the north west. 
•	Soils reflect local deposits of boulder clay, sands and gravels and the creation of extensive areas of blanket bogs that cover the moorland summits.


FG KeyChar:
•	Although the area includes prehistoric and Roman remains, 18th and 19th century influences are clearly seen in the pattern of villages, enclosures, commons, packhorse trails, canals and textile mills in many of the valleys and on parts of the moors.

Edited_KeyChars:
Predominantly historic influences from 18th and 19th century textile industry.


FG KeyChar:
•	Semi-natural habitats on the open moorland and moorland fringe include blanket bog, mores, acid flashes, unimproved grasslands and wooded cloughs.

Edited_KeyChars:
Semi-natural habitats on the open moorland and moorland fringe include blanket bog, moors, acid flashes, unimproved grasslands and wooded cloughs.


FG KeyChar:
•	Many settlements are of industrial origin, deriving power from rivers for the textile industry.  Mineral working and engineering led to the further expansion of settlements such as Keighly.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	Many settlements are of industrial origin, deriving power from rivers for the textile industry.  Mineral working and engineering led to the further expansion of settlements such as Keighly.


FG KeyChar:
•	Most of the Southern Pennines are underlain by Millstone Grit.  Layers have eroded at different rates, creating distinctive terraced landscape of plateaux and escarpments.  Isolated beds of sandstone form mesa-shaped hills across the area.  Coal measures are found over a much smaller area, and a narrow band of Carboniferous Limestone occurs in the north west.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	Most of the Southern Pennines are underlain by Millstone Grit.  Layers have eroded at different rates, creating distinctive terraced landscape of plateaux and escarpments.  Isolated beds of sandstone form mesa-shaped hills across the area.  Coal measures are found over a much smaller area, and a narrow band of Carboniferous Limestone occurs in the north west.


FG KeyChar:
•	Woodland is concentrated in a number of steepside valleys (cloughs) and on the slopes of the larger valleys.  Elsewhere, woodland is limited, particularly on the more open and elevated parts of the area.

Edited_KeyChars:
Woodland is concentrated in a number of steepside valleys (cloughs) and on the slopes of the larger valleys.


FG KeyChar:
•	Agriculture reflects the west to east transition, with rough grazing and pastoral farming in the west giving way in places to arable cultivation in the east.  The influence of large urban areas is evident in the retreat of farming in some areas and the development of horse grazing and other activities in its place.

Edited_KeyChars:
Rough grazing and pastoral farming in the west transitioning to arable cultivation in the east.


FG KeyChar:
•	Traditional buildings are constructed in local sandstone and millstone.

Edited_KeyChars:
Traditional buildings are constructed in local sandstone and millstone.


FG KeyChar:
•	Much of the area is significantly influenced by urban areas, with transport infrastructure, residential areas, industry and quarries present in most parts of the area.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	Much of the area is significantly influenced by urban areas, with transport infrastructure, residential areas, industry and quarries present in most parts of the area.


FG KeyChar:
•	Rivers are a formative feature in the landscape, having cut the narrow valleys that dissect the hills and allowed the development of the textile industry.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	Rivers are a formative feature in the landscape, having cut the narrow valleys that dissect the hills and allowed the development of the textile industry.


FG KeyChar:
•	Field boundaries are marked by stone walls in the higher west and hedges in the lower east.  Most fields are small or medium sized with some unenclosed rough grazing and upland pastures on higher land to the west.

Edited_KeyChars:
Most fields small/medium sized, bound by stone walls in the higher west and hedges in the lower east.


FG KeyChar:
•	This area is underlain by carboniferous strata.  Coarse grained sandstone bed (gritstones) interbedded with softer siltstones and mudstones dominate the area creating smooth hills and plateaux.  In the east, the Millstone Grit is overlain by beds of sandstone, siltstone and mudstone of the Coal Measures.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	This area is underlain by carboniferous strata.  Coarse grained sandstone bed (gritstones) interbedded with softer siltstones and mudstones dominate the area creating smooth hills and plateaux.  In the east, the Millstone Grit is overlain by beds of sandstone, siltstone and mudstone of the Coal Measures.


FG KeyChar:
•	Historic features reflect the pattern of industrialisation with older woollen mills and associated settlements (including enclosures) being supplemented by the mills, canals, railways and linear industrial settlements that are found in the area’s narrow valleys.

Edited_KeyChars:
Historic features reflect the pattern of industrialisation with woollen mills and associated settlements.


FG KeyChar:
•	Semi-natural habitats include moorland areas and some broadleaved woodlands.

Edited_KeyChars:
Semi-natural habitats include remnant moorland areas, rough grazing, and some broadleaved woodlands.


FG KeyChar:
•	The constraining influence of the landform, together with the early influence of transport by canal and rail, resulted in a linear pattern of development within the valleys and larger industrial centres such as Bradford, Sheffield and Huddersfield.
•	Much of the area is significantly influenced by urban areas, with transport infrastructure, residential areas, industry and quarries present in most parts of the area.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	The constraining influence of the landform, together with the early influence of transport by canal and rail, resulted in a linear pattern of development within the valleys and larger industrial centres such as Bradford, Sheffield and Huddersfield.
•	Much of the area is significantly influenced by urban areas, with transport infrastructure, residential areas, industry and quarries present in most parts of the area.


FG KeyChar:
•	This area is underlain by carboniferous strata.  Coarse grained sandstone bed (gritstones) interbedded with softer siltstones and mudstones dominate the area creating smooth hills and plateaux.  In the east, the Millstone Grit is overlain by beds of sandstone, siltstone and mudstone of the Coal Measures.
•	The area is highest in the west, marking the transition from the Pennine Moorlands to lower ground in the east.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	This area is underlain by carboniferous strata.  Coarse grained sandstone bed (gritstones) interbedded with softer siltstones and mudstones dominate the area creating smooth hills and plateaux.  In the east, the Millstone Grit is overlain by beds of sandstone, siltstone and mudstone of the Coal Measures.
•	The area is highest in the west, marking the transition from the Pennine Moorlands to lower ground in the east.


FG KeyChar:
•	Treecover is comparatively sparse overall, though framework of hedgerow trees and small woods, together with more extensive woodlands on some of the steeper valley slopes, creates the impression of a well wooded landscape.

Edited_KeyChars:
Tree cover sparse overall, but network of hedgerow trees, small woods, and extensive broadleaved woods on valley slopes.


FG KeyChar:
•	Coal measures give rise to generally poor quality soils that support grazing.  Permanent pasture is dominant to the west where dairy farms predominate.  To the east, and on lower ground the land tends to be of better quality and arable crops and improved grassland are more common.  Horse grazing is common around urban fringes.

Edited_KeyChars:
Grazing on poor quality soils (coal measures)
Permanent pasture and dairying to west
Arable and improved grass to east on lower, better quality land
Horse grazing around urban fringes


FG KeyChar:
•	Older buildings are built in local sandstone and Millstone Grit.  Nineteenth century industrial and urban development is of brick and slate.

Edited_KeyChars:
Older buildings of local sandstone and Millstone Grit


FG KeyChar:
•	The influence of large urban areas is evident in the retreat of farming in some areas and the presence of degraded pasture, gappy hedges and broken fences.  Transport routes, including motorways, add further urban influences to the surrounding landscape.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	The influence of large urban areas is evident in the retreat of farming in some areas and the presence of degraded pasture, gappy hedges and broken fences.  Transport routes, including motorways, add further urban influences to the surrounding landscape.


FG KeyChar:
•	Several major rivers cross the area, including the Aire, Calder, Dearne, Rother, Don and Erewash, carving broad valleys. They often tend to be obscured by industrial development along them.  Subsidence flashes and lagoons are present in some areas.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	Several major rivers cross the area, including the Aire, Calder, Dearne, Rother, Don and Erewash, carving broad valleys. They often tend to be obscured by industrial development along them.  Subsidence flashes and lagoons are present in some areas.


FG KeyChar:
•	Field sizes, boundaries and shapes are highly variable.  They range from thick, well-maintained hedges with ash and oak trees, to close-cropped or neglected hawthorn hedges.  Holly is found in some of the older hedges.

Edited_KeyChars:
Variable field sizes, boundaries and shapes
Old, thick, well-maintained hedges with holly in some areas
Close-cropped or neglected hawthorn hedges in other areas


FG KeyChar:
•	This area is underlain by Coal Measures comprising mudstone with beds of sandstone and many seams of coal.   The area lies below 300 metres AOD, contrasting with the neighbouring areas of the Peak District and Pennine fringes.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	This area is underlain by Coal Measures comprising mudstone with beds of sandstone and many seams of coal.   The area lies below 300 metres AOD, contrasting with the neighbouring areas of the Peak District and Pennine fringes.


FG KeyChar:
•	Historic features include churches, country houses and follies, together with the extensive industrial archaeology and associated settlements dating back to 19th century industrialisation. 
•	Industrial development, much of it based on the exploitation of coal and steel, has had a profound influence on this landscape.  There is widespread evidence of past and present industrial activity in the form of mine buildings, former spoil tips and iron and steel plants.

Edited_KeyChars:
Churches, country houses and follies
Extensive industrial archaeology associated with 19th century industrialisation
Water features unknown but probably mixture of farm/estate ponds and industrial features such as mill ponds and subsidence flashes


FG KeyChar:
•	Semi-natural habitats include open water, wetlands (including subsidence flashes), grassland and remnant heaths and woodlands.

Edited_KeyChars:
Open water, washlands and wetlands (including subsidence flashes)
Remnant heaths


FG KeyChar:
•	In addition to major industrial areas such as Sheffield and the Lower Don Valley, there are many smaller mining and manufacturing settlements.
•	The influence of large urban areas is evident in the retreat of farming in some areas and the presence of degraded pasture, gappy hedges and broken fences.  Transport routes, including motorways, add further urban influences to the surrounding landscape.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	In addition to major industrial areas such as Sheffield and the Lower Don Valley, there are many smaller mining and manufacturing settlements.
•	The influence of large urban areas is evident in the retreat of farming in some areas and the presence of degraded pasture, gappy hedges and broken fences.  Transport routes, including motorways, add further urban influences to the surrounding landscape.


FG KeyChar:
•	Treecover is variable but generally low.  There has been woodland planting associated with the South Yorkshire Community Forest.

Edited_KeyChars:
Variable but low tree cover
Hedgerow and in-field trees of oak and ash in some areas, important in relatively open landscape
Woodland planting in South Yorkshire Community Forest


FG KeyChar:
•	Most of the area is intensively farmed with predominantly root crops and cereals and livestock farming of pigs, poultry, beef cattle and dairy herds.  This is one of the most productive areas of the UK

Edited_KeyChars:
Mainly intensively farmed for root crops, cereals and livestock (pigs, poultry, beef and dairy)
Some areas of small scale pastoral agriculture eg Isle of Axholme


FG KeyChar:
•	The local buildings are constructed from red ‘Barton’ brick and red pantiles, though slate is found in the north.  More recent development uses a range of materials including orange bricks.

Edited_KeyChars:
Traditional buildings of red ‘Barton’ brick and red pantiles (or slate in north)


FG KeyChar:
•	There are also larger more industrial centres like Goole and Selby together with motorways, roads, embankments and power stations which impact on the flat, open landscape.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	There are also larger more industrial centres like Goole and Selby together with motorways, roads, embankments and power stations which impact on the flat, open landscape.


FG KeyChar:
•	The area contains a number of often navigable rivers of the Aire, Derwent, Don, Idle, Ouse, Trent Torne and Went which drain into the Humber and the artificial waterways of the Aire and Calder Navigation and Selby Canal.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	The area contains a number of often navigable rivers of the Aire, Derwent, Don, Idle, Ouse, Trent Torne and Went which drain into the Humber and the artificial waterways of the Aire and Calder Navigation and Selby Canal.


FG KeyChar:
•	The fields are usually divided by dykes, with few hedges and field trees.

Edited_KeyChars:
Fields usually divided by dykes with few hedges or field trees (remaining hedges often degraded)
Localised areas with small, thickly hedged fields eg Isle of Axholme


FG KeyChar:
•	This low lying, flat landscape is formed by drift deposits which overlie the bedrock of mudstone occupying the area of the former Lake Humber which was impounded by ice blocking the Humber gap.  There are higher ridges of sandstone or mudstone and also moundy glacial deposits.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	This low lying, flat landscape is formed by drift deposits which overlie the bedrock of mudstone occupying the area of the former Lake Humber which was impounded by ice blocking the Humber gap.  There are higher ridges of sandstone or mudstone and also moundy glacial deposits.


FG KeyChar:
•	Historic influences on the landscape largely relate to early attempts at drainage of the marshes, dating back to the 17th century.  Prominent features include drainage dykes.

Edited_KeyChars:
Many features associated with drainage of the marshes 17th century onwards
Remnants of ridge and furrow and parklands with old trees in Isle of Axholme


FG KeyChar:
•	The Ings are alluvial flood meadows which are important for their wetland vegetation and as habitats for wintering and migrating birds.  There are some areas of remnant heathland and there are also some areas of neutral grassland on clay soils which are of wildlife importance.  The remnant raised mires on peat deposits are also of great importance.

Edited_KeyChars:
Areas of neutral grassland on clay soils
Important wetlands (alluvial flood meadows or ings)
Remnant raised mires on peat deposits
Remnant heathlands


FG KeyChar:
•	Settlement is scattered across the area and is traditionally located on the higher ground out of reach of the floods.  Many villages tend to be strung out along roads and there are larger, nucleated villages, and small market towns.
•	There are also larger more industrial centres like Goole and Selby together with motorways, roads, embankments and power stations which impact on the flat, open landscape.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	Settlement is scattered across the area and is traditionally located on the higher ground out of reach of the floods.  Many villages tend to be strung out along roads and there are larger, nucleated villages, and small market towns.
•	There are also larger more industrial centres like Goole and Selby together with motorways, roads, embankments and power stations which impact on the flat, open landscape.


FG KeyChar:
•	Woodland cover is restricted in extent except in the areas of sandy soils to the north and south where remnant birch and oak woods and extensive conifer plantations occur.

Edited_KeyChars:
Generally limited woodland cover
Remnant oak and birch woodland and conifers on sandy soils to north and south
Localised areas with mature hedgerow oaks eg Isle of Axholme


FG KeyChar:
•	The area is predominantly arable farmland but some pasture occurs and intensive indoor pig rearing is significant.

Edited_KeyChars:
Predominantly arable farmland with some pasture and intensive indoor pig rearing is significant.


FG KeyChar:
•	Local buildings are commonly constructed from brick and pantiles.  Limestone is also used in some buildings and near the coast the distinctive Holderness ‘cobbles’ appear.

Edited_KeyChars:
Local buildings are commonly constructed from brick and pantiles with some limestone. Near the coast the distinctive Holderness ‘cobbles’ appear.


JM KeyChar:
•	The coast itself is characterised by low boulder clay cliffs, rapidly eroding into the sea.

Edited_KeyChars:
The coast itself is characterised by low boulder clay cliffs, rapidly eroding into the sea.


FG KeyChar:
•	The character area is predominantly rural although there are urban fringe influences on the landscape around Hull with housing, industry, roads and pylons.  The coastal landscape around Bridlington and Hornsea is influenced by holiday homes and caravan parks.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	The character area is predominantly rural although there are urban fringe influences on the landscape around Hull with housing, industry, roads and pylons.  The coastal landscape around Bridlington and Hornsea is influenced by holiday homes and caravan parks.


FG KeyChar:
•	The area contains the River Hull, which flows from north to south, and the valley has a broad indistinct and shallow form.  The proximity of the coast and Humber estuary has an important influence on the landscape.  The Driffield and Leven Canal is also an important feature.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	The area contains the River Hull, which flows from north to south, and the valley has a broad indistinct and shallow form.  The proximity of the coast and Humber estuary has an important influence on the landscape.  The Driffield and Leven Canal is also an important feature.


FG KeyChar:
•	Fields are often divided by ditches especially on the floodplain of the River Hull and by hedges on higher ground.

Edited_KeyChars:
Fields divided by ditches on the floodplain and hedges with trees on higher ground.


FG KeyChar:
•	The Holderness landscape is formed by superficial drift deposits overlying chalk below.  Glacial till covers much of the area and gradually increases in thickness towards the coast and forms hummocky coastal terrain and soft clay cliffs.  There are a number of glacial landforms such as hummocky terrain, kettle holes, drumlins and moraine-like ridges.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	The Holderness landscape is formed by superficial drift deposits overlying chalk below.  Glacial till covers much of the area and gradually increases in thickness towards the coast and forms hummocky coastal terrain and soft clay cliffs.  There are a number of glacial landforms such as hummocky terrain, kettle holes, drumlins and moraine-like ridges.


FG KeyChar:
•	Early settlers cleared the area of trees and early drainage of the area took place in the 18th century.  Much of the land was enclosed prior to Parliamentary Enclosure.

Edited_KeyChars:
Drainage of the area took place in the 18th century.  Much of the land was enclosed prior to Parliamentary Enclosure.


FG KeyChar:
•	Semi natural vegetation only remains in small fragments and although marshland and meres were once common Hornsea Mere is the largest surviving example.  There is some unimproved neutral grassland on the bolder clays.

Edited_KeyChars:
Small remaining fragments of marshland and meres.  There is some unimproved neutral grassland on the bolder clays.


FG KeyChar:
•	Settlement is usually on higher ground and often surrounded by smaller fields.  Hamlets and villages are widely dispersed, some are closely packed and nucleated and others are strung out along roads.  Farmsteads are usually large and widely dispersed.
•	The character area is predominantly rural although there are urban fringe influences on the landscape around Hull with housing, industry, roads and pylons.  The coastal landscape around Bridlington and Hornsea is influenced by holiday homes and caravan parks.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	Settlement is usually on higher ground and often surrounded by smaller fields.  Hamlets and villages are widely dispersed, some are closely packed and nucleated and others are strung out along roads.  Farmsteads are usually large and widely dispersed.
•	The character area is predominantly rural although there are urban fringe influences on the landscape around Hull with housing, industry, roads and pylons.  The coastal landscape around Bridlington and Hornsea is influenced by holiday homes and caravan parks.


FG KeyChar:
•	There is limited woodland cover varying in extent and distribution.  Most is of recent origin, with a limited occurance of ancient woodland.

Edited_KeyChars:
Woodland limited and most is of recent origin, with a limited occurance of ancient woodland.


FG KeyChar:
•	Outside of the urban areas the main land cover is arable farmland although some grassland remains and is grazed by cattle.

Edited_KeyChars:
Main agricultural use is arable with some grassland grazed by cattle.


FG KeyChar:
•	Traditional buildings are built of soft red brick and red pantiles, they sometimes include cobbles nearer to the coast.

Edited_KeyChars:
Traditional buildings of soft red brick and red pantiles,  sometimes include cobbles nearer to the coast.


FG KeyChar:
•	The Spurn peninsula is a sand and shingle spit extending out between the Humber and the North Sea.
•	Coastal reclamation, dating back to the 17th century, has made a great impact on the rural landscape.  This involved cutting drainage channels, enlarging watercourses, constructing flood protection berms and installing sophisticated sluice and pumping systems.  The practice of warping was also introduced and warping drains still remain as a feature in the landscape.
•	The City of Hull, the Humber Bridge and various industrial installations are the main examples of building and settlement in the Humber Estuary.  Along the coast there are some lighthouses, concrete sea defences and coastal buildings on the Spurn peninsula.

Edited_KeyChars:
Historical coastal reclamation and industrial building and settlement along the Humber. Spern peninsula is a sand and shingle spit.


FG KeyChar:
•	The disused Barton clay pits contain open water and lie below the Humber Bridge and the open water.  Their  reedbeds and other wetland vegetation are of value for birds.
•	Coastal reclamation, dating back to the 17th centrury, has made a great impact on the rural landscape.  This involved cutting drainage channels, enlarging watercourses, constructing flood protection berms and installing sophisticated sluice and pumping systems.  The practice of warping was also introduced and warping drains still remain as a feature in the landscape.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	The disused Barton clay pits contain open water and lie below the Humber Bridge and the open water.  Their  reedbeds and other wetland vegetation are of value for birds.
•	Coastal reclamation, dating back to the 17th centrury, has made a great impact on the rural landscape.  This involved cutting drainage channels, enlarging watercourses, constructing flood protection berms and installing sophisticated sluice and pumping systems.  The practice of warping was also introduced and warping drains still remain as a feature in the landscape.


FG KeyChar:
•	The field boundaries are predominantly formed by dykes, drains and embankments.

Edited_KeyChars:
The field boundaries are predominantly formed by dykes, drains and embankments.


FG KeyChar:
•	Coastal reclamation, dating back to the 17th centrury, has made a great impact on the rural landscape.  This involved cutting drainage channels, enlarging watercourses, constructing flood protection berms and installing sophisticated sluice and pumping systems.  The practice of warping was also introduced and warping drains still remain as a feature in the landscape.

Edited_KeyChars:
Historic coastal reclamation with drainage channels, enlarging watercourses, flood protection berms and sluice and pumping systems.


FG KeyChar:
•	There are a few relict areas of salt marsh and reedbeds along the tidal channels which cross the drained marshes and there is also some remaining marshy grassland.  The mudflats in the estuary are of international importance as feeding areas for birds.
•	The disused Barton clay pits contain open water and lie below the Humber Bridge and the open water.  Their  reedbeds and other wetland vegetation are of value for birds.

Edited_KeyChars:
Reedbeds and other wetland vegetation around disused clay pits are of value for birds. Relict areas of salt marsh, marshy grassland and mudflats.


FG KeyChar:
•	Settlement pattern is restricted to drier land and villages and hamlets lie mainly in adjacent areas like Holderness.
•	The City of Hull, the Humber Bridge and various industrial installations are the main examples of building and settlement in the Humber Estuary.  Along the coast there are some lighthouses, concrete sea defences and coastal buildings on the Spurn peninsula.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	Settlement pattern is restricted to drier land and villages and hamlets lie mainly in adjacent areas like Holderness.
•	The City of Hull, the Humber Bridge and various industrial installations are the main examples of building and settlement in the Humber Estuary.  Along the coast there are some lighthouses, concrete sea defences and coastal buildings on the Spurn peninsula.


FG KeyChar:
•	Flat, low-lying landscape created when ice blocked the mouth of the estuary.  The landscape is bordered by high flood banks.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	Flat, low-lying landscape created when ice blocked the mouth of the estuary.  The landscape is bordered by high flood banks.


FG KeyChar:
•	Woodland cover is relatively sparse but there are a few blocks of medium sized, regularly shaped deciduous woodland, which are particularly prominent in the flat, open and uniform farmed landscape.

Edited_KeyChars:
Sparse woodland cover with some blocks of medium sized, regularly shaped deciduous woodland.


FG KeyChar:
•	A predominantly open, medium-scale agricultural landscape, with mixed arable farmland on the Middle Marsh to the west and smaller farm units with traditional drained pastures and some vegetable crops on the Outmarsh to the east.

Edited_KeyChars:
Mixed arable farmland to the west and drained pasture with some vegetable crops to the east.


FG KeyChar:
•	Specific areas of the coast are managed for nature conservation, notably between Saltfleet and Theddlethorpe.  South of Saltfleet Haven there is an ancient calcareous dune system and at Gibraltar Point more extensive dunes and saltmarshes.

Edited_KeyChars:
Ancient calcareous dune system and extensive dunes and saltmarshes, managed for nature conservation.


FG KeyChar:
•	A complex series of rivers and small streams drain eastwards towards the sea.  Some are natural water courses (eg The Great Eau and Waithe Beck, while others rely on a network of man-made brackish drainage ditches.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	A complex series of rivers and small streams drain eastwards towards the sea.  Some are natural water courses (eg The Great Eau and Waithe Beck, while others rely on a network of man-made brackish drainage ditches.


FG KeyChar:
•	The Middle Marsh comprises regular rectilinear fields bounded by occasional hedgerows, which increase in density towards the edge of the Wolds.  The Outmarsh is devoid of hedgerows.

Edited_KeyChars:
Regular rectilinear fields with occasional hedgerows in the west but devoid of hedgerows in the east.


FG KeyChar:
•	The Middle Marsh is underlain by glacial tills which produce slowly permeable, seasonally waterlogged fine loams which are ideal for cereals.  Mixed with the clay tills are localised areas of outwash gravels.  The Outmarsh is composed of marine alluvium and has deep clayey soils.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	The Middle Marsh is underlain by glacial tills which produce slowly permeable, seasonally waterlogged fine loams which are ideal for cereals.  Mixed with the clay tills are localised areas of outwash gravels.  The Outmarsh is composed of marine alluvium and has deep clayey soils.


FG KeyChar:
•	Traces of ridge and furrow are found throughout the Outmarsh and there is evidence of ancient salt works at Castle Hills, Tetney and Somercotes.

Edited_KeyChars:
Traces of ridge and furrow and evidence of ancient salt works.


FG KeyChar:
•	There is a dispersed settlement pattern throughout the area, with a concentration of larger settlements along the coast, including seaside resorts, theme parks, bungalows, caravan parks and industry.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	There is a dispersed settlement pattern throughout the area, with a concentration of larger settlements along the coast, including seaside resorts, theme parks, bungalows, caravan parks and industry.


FG KeyChar:
•	A flat coastal plain, rising gradually towards the west where there is a more undulating landscape at the foot of the Lincolnshire Wolds.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	A flat coastal plain, rising gradually towards the west where there is a more undulating landscape at the foot of the Lincolnshire Wolds.


FG KeyChar:
•	Woodland and hedge cover is sparse, but increases westwards towards the foot of the Wolds, particularly close to settlements. Wooded open farmland occurs at Claythorpe and Brocklesby on the fringes of the Wolds.

Edited_KeyChars:
Sparse woodland and hedge cover. Increases close to settlement and farmland.


FG KeyChar:
•	Most land throughout the area is in arable use with large, rectilinear parliamentary enclosure fields, enclosed by clipped hawthorn hedges (although older enclosures do occur in parts).

Edited_KeyChars:
Most land is used for arable farming, with some pastoral in the valleys of the south west.


FG KeyChar:
•	There is a sparse settlement pattern of small, nucleated villages – building materials reflect the diverse underlying geology.

Edited_KeyChars:
Diverse underlying geology in the area reflected in buildings. Claxby Ironstone and Tealby Limestone in the north. Brick in the south west.


FG KeyChar:
•	Hedgerows accentuate the rolling landform and tops are marked by prominent clumps of trees, often mature beech.
•	Most land throughout the area is in arable use with large, rectilinear parliamentary enclosure fields, enclosed by clipped hawthorn hedges (although older enclosures do occur in parts).

Edited_KeyChars:
Large, rectilinear fields enclosed by hawthorn hedgerows with mature hedgerow trees. Some localised dry stone walls.


FG KeyChar:
•	This rolling upland landscape is dominated by a west-facing chalk escarpment, extensively moulded by glacial and periglacial action.
•	The escarpment takes a simple form in the north, where the plateau top has light chalky soils and the scarp face is clothed with scrub woodland and pasture.
•	On the plateau top, deep glacial meltwater channels form dramatic, steep sided dry valleys within the chalk, often lined with beech hanger woodlands.
•	Further south the scarp form is more complex, with exposed ironstones, limestones and sandstones (the latter giving rise to acid soils) and glacial till.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	This rolling upland landscape is dominated by a west-facing chalk escarpment, extensively moulded by glacial and periglacial action.
•	The escarpment takes a simple form in the north, where the plateau top has light chalky soils and the scarp face is clothed with scrub woodland and pasture.
•	On the plateau top, deep glacial meltwater channels form dramatic, steep sided dry valleys within the chalk, often lined with beech hanger woodlands.
•	Further south the scarp form is more complex, with exposed ironstones, limestones and sandstones (the latter giving rise to acid soils) and glacial till.


FG KeyChar:
•	Small clustered red brick settlements and hamlets, with densely scattered farmsteads.

Edited_KeyChars:
Settlements mostly constructed of  red brick.


FG KeyChar:
•	Marl pits with small ponds and wetlands are a feature of many rolling fields on the South Derbyshire plateaux and the stream corridors are often lined with prominent riparian vegetation and rush pastures.
•	The broad, open alluvial floodplains of the Rivers Dove, Blithe and Trent typically have a regular pattern of mixed farmland with few woodlands and large settlements. Related minor river floodplains have a pastoral, enclosed character.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	Marl pits with small ponds and wetlands are a feature of many rolling fields on the South Derbyshire plateaux and the stream corridors are often lined with prominent riparian vegetation and rush pastures.
•	The broad, open alluvial floodplains of the Rivers Dove, Blithe and Trent typically have a regular pattern of mixed farmland with few woodlands and large settlements. Related minor river floodplains have a pastoral, enclosed character.


FG KeyChar:
•	There is an intact and well maintained framework of hedgerows with numerous mature hedgerow ash and oak trees throughout the area. 
•	Medium scale pastures with irregular field patterns predominate, with localised but often extensive areas of larger scale arable land with a rectilinear pattern wherever soil and topographic conditions are favourable.
•	There is extensive ridge and furrow throughout the settled farmlands of the South Derbyshire Claylands and sunken narrow lanes are also typical on elevated land.

Edited_KeyChars:
Irregular, medium sized pastoral and  rectilinear, large scale arable land is bounded by intact, well maintained hedgerows with mature trees.


FG KeyChar:
•	There is extensive ridge and furrow throughout the settled farmlands of the South Derbyshire Claylands and sunken narrow lanes are also typical on elevated land.
•	Parkland is locally an important influence throughout the area, but particularly in the former Needwood Forest.

Edited_KeyChars:
Parkland is common in the area, but particularly in the former Needwood Forest. Marl pits with small ponds a feature.


FG KeyChar:
•	Areas of ridge and furrow and deserted settlements are found occasionally throughout the area.
•	Small villages on rising land with red brick buildings and spired churches are often prominent landscape features and isolated large 19th century red brick farmsteads are also conspicuous.

Edited_KeyChars:
Historic parklands are extensively wooded. Areas of ridge and furrow and deserted settlements found throughout.


FG KeyChar:
•	There are occasional patches of unimproved pasture in fields around villages and along streamsides, as well as on the many wide road verges throughout the area.

Edited_KeyChars:
Occasional unimproved pasture with localised patches of rushes in damp hollows.


FG KeyChar:
•	Areas of ridge and furrow and deserted settlements are found occasionally throughout the area.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	Areas of ridge and furrow and deserted settlements are found occasionally throughout the area.


FG KeyChar:
•	The Lowlands are very gently rolling clay ridges and shallow valleys which become virtually flat around the Rivers Mease and Sence; the land to the north west, which drains directly into the River Trent, generally has a more undulating landform.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	The Lowlands are very gently rolling clay ridges and shallow valleys which become virtually flat around the Rivers Mease and Sence; the land to the north west, which drains directly into the River Trent, generally has a more undulating landform.


FG KeyChar:
•	Woodland cover is generally limited, although planting associated with the National Forest has localised impact and there are many extensive wooded parklands, including Gopsall Park, Market Bosworth, Thorpe Constantine and Shenton.

Edited_KeyChars:
Limited woodland, but planting associated with the National Forest has local impact. Extensive wooded parklands.


FG KeyChar:
•	The area is dominated by pasture, with isolated arable fields on a few areas of more fertile land.  Stone walls are characteristic on the more elevated rocky land.

Edited_KeyChars:
The area is dominated by pasture, with isolated arable fields on a few areas of more fertile land.


FG KeyChar:
•	Most of the older farmsteads and village buildings are of the local dark stone. Settlements and some large quarries are sited around the edge of the elevated heathland areas and the core of the Charnwood area remains sparsely populated.

Edited_KeyChars:
Most of the older farmsteads and village buildings are of the local dark stone.


FG KeyChar:
•	A pattern of straight enclosure roads with wide grass verges is overlaid on one of earlier winding tracks and lanes leading from villages on the edge of Charnwood to the central woods and heathlands.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	A pattern of straight enclosure roads with wide grass verges is overlaid on one of earlier winding tracks and lanes leading from villages on the edge of Charnwood to the central woods and heathlands.


FG KeyChar:
•	Drainage follows the north-west to south-east trend of the landforms.  There are three major reservoirs at Blackbrook, Cropston and Swithland, as well as Groby Pool, a water-filled quarry of medieval origin.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	Drainage follows the north-west to south-east trend of the landforms.  There are three major reservoirs at Blackbrook, Cropston and Swithland, as well as Groby Pool, a water-filled quarry of medieval origin.


FG KeyChar:
•	Surrounding the areas of rocky outcrops and heathland, there are extensive areas of pasture enclosed within a rectilinear pattern of 19th hedgerows.  Areas with smaller irregular fields are found around the villages and older farmsteads.
•	In contrast to the surrounding farmland landscapes, Charnwood has a complex mosaic of heathland, woodland, parkland and farmland.

Edited_KeyChars:
Rectilinear fields bound by thorn hedges predominate, with some small irregular pasture with mixed hedgerows. Stone walls are characteristic on the more elevated rocky land.


FG KeyChar:
•	The underlying structure of the landscape is formed by Precambrian slates and volcanic rocks which form steep slopes and give rise to the infertile soils that support heathlands. The older Precambrian rocks are partially obscured by more fertile Mercia Mudstones which form broader vales.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	The underlying structure of the landscape is formed by Precambrian slates and volcanic rocks which form steep slopes and give rise to the infertile soils that support heathlands. The older Precambrian rocks are partially obscured by more fertile Mercia Mudstones which form broader vales.


FG KeyChar:
•	Charnwood formerly contained several large parks. Some of these, such as Bradgate Park, still survive, containing heathland and huge ancient pollarded oaks.

Edited_KeyChars:
Surviving large parklands with heathland and large ancient oaks.


FG KeyChar:
•	Patches of heathland and former commons are concentrated around the Precambrian rock outcrops.  These are now dominated by bracken, but also have patches of heather and wet heath.

Edited_KeyChars:
Patches of heathland dominated by bracken with patches of heather and wet heath.


FG KeyChar:
•	Most of the older farmsteads and village buildings are of the local dark stone. Settlements and some large quarries are sited around the edge of the elevated heathland areas and the core of the Charnwood area remains sparsely populated.
•	A pattern of straight enclosure roads with wide grass verges is overlaid on one of earlier winding tracks and lanes leading from villages on the edge of Charnwood to the central woods and heathlands.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	Most of the older farmsteads and village buildings are of the local dark stone. Settlements and some large quarries are sited around the edge of the elevated heathland areas and the core of the Charnwood area remains sparsely populated.
•	A pattern of straight enclosure roads with wide grass verges is overlaid on one of earlier winding tracks and lanes leading from villages on the edge of Charnwood to the central woods and heathlands.


FG KeyChar:
•	The majority of the woods are secondary woodlands, but there are also conifer woods and mixed plantations, together with a few ancient woodlands and numerous hedgerow oak trees.
•	Charnwood formerly contained several large parks. Some of these, such as Bradgate Park, still survive, containing heathland and huge ancient pollarded oaks.

Edited_KeyChars:
Mainly secondary woodland, with some plantation and a few ancient woodland. Numerous oak trees in hedgerows and parkland.


FG KeyChar:
•	The open ridgetops are under arable cultivation, while the steeper slopes and valleys are predominantly pasture.

Edited_KeyChars:
The open ridgetops are under arable cultivation, while the steeper slopes and valleys are predominantly pasture.


FG KeyChar:
•	Small villages of mainly red brick buildings clustered around an ironstone or limestone church are regularly spaced across the landscape. There are isolated farms and a few cottages and houses, but the heart of the Wolds is a remote rather empty landscape. Development is concentrated to the south in the Wreake Valley.

Edited_KeyChars:
Mainly red brick buildings with churches of ironstone or limestone.


FG KeyChar:
•	The Wolds form a watershed between the Rivers Wreake, Soar and Trent with streams draining from the central elevated land to each of these rivers.  There is a major inland reservoir at Rutland Water.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	The Wolds form a watershed between the Rivers Wreake, Soar and Trent with streams draining from the central elevated land to each of these rivers.  There is a major inland reservoir at Rutland Water.


FG KeyChar:
•	The ridges often have the rectilinear pattern of 18th and 19th century enclosures and are bounded by low thorn hedges.  The valleys generally have a more irregular field pattern with dense mixed species hedgerows and more frequent hedgerow trees.  The area generally has exceptionally well managed hedgerows.
•	In medieval times, the area was well populated and there remain many deserted and shrunken settlements, as well as extensive areas of ridge and furrow.

Edited_KeyChars:
Rectilinear pattern bound by low thorn hedges on the ridges. Irregular fields bound by well managed mixed hedgerows with frequent trees.


FG KeyChar:
•	The wolds are rolling ridges of glacial till underlain by Jurassic rocks.  The hills are separated by narrow valleys.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	The wolds are rolling ridges of glacial till underlain by Jurassic rocks.  The hills are separated by narrow valleys.


FG KeyChar:
•	In medieval times, the area was well populated and there remain many deserted and shrunken settlements, as well as extensive areas of ridge and furrow.

Edited_KeyChars:
Deserted medieval settlements and extensive areas of ridge and furrow. Parkland on fringes.


FG KeyChar:
•	The wooded escarpments and hills along the northern and western edges of the Wolds have the greatest variety of semi-natural habitats, with woodland, wet flushes and unimproved grassland.

Edited_KeyChars:
Areas of unimproved grassland,  with some wet flushes and wet meadows.


FG KeyChar:
•	In medieval times, the area was well populated and there remain many deserted and shrunken settlements, as well as extensive areas of ridge and furrow.
•	Small villages of mainly red brick buildings clustered around an ironstone or limestone church are regularly spaced across the landscape. There are isolated farms and a few cottages and houses, but the heart of the Wolds is a remote rather empty landscape. Development is concentrated to the south in the Wreake Valley.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	In medieval times, the area was well populated and there remain many deserted and shrunken settlements, as well as extensive areas of ridge and furrow.
•	Small villages of mainly red brick buildings clustered around an ironstone or limestone church are regularly spaced across the landscape. There are isolated farms and a few cottages and houses, but the heart of the Wolds is a remote rather empty landscape. Development is concentrated to the south in the Wreake Valley.


FG KeyChar:
•	There is a low escarpment with outlying hills to the west, which becomes steeper and more irregular to the north where it forms a prominent escarpment above the Trent valley and the Vale of Belvoir.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	There is a low escarpment with outlying hills to the west, which becomes steeper and more irregular to the north where it forms a prominent escarpment above the Trent valley and the Vale of Belvoir.


FG KeyChar:
•	Woodland cover is generally sparse, except on the wooded scarps and hills along the northern edge of the Wolds and in the Wreake Valley, which is particularly well treed. Elsewhere, small spinneys, hedgerow and streamside trees predominate, particularly in the valleys.

Edited_KeyChars:
Sparse woodland cover apart from wooded scarps and hills. In the valleys, small spinneys, hedgerow and streamside trees predominate.


FG KeyChar:
•	Large arable fields predominate on the higher ground, with intermittent clipped hedges, while the river valleys on heavier land provide good grazing for cattle and sheep.

Edited_KeyChars:
Large arable fields predominate on higher ground while the river valleys provide  grazing for cattle and sheep.


FG KeyChar:
•	The local honey-coloured limestone is used in traditional domestic, civic and farm buildings throughout the area and in the south the yellowish local Collyweston slate is used for roofing, while in the north it is replaced by red pantiles.

Edited_KeyChars:
Traditional buildings made of honey-coloured limestone, with yellow Collyweston slate used for roofing in the south and red pantile in the north.


FG KeyChar:
•	The original west-east drainage pattern was altered following the deposition of glacial till. The East and West Glen Rivers now meander south-westwards to a confluence below Bourne; the River Welland flows due west through Stamford towards the Wash and the River Witham rises on the higher land to the west and flows northwards to the Vale of Belvoir.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	The original west-east drainage pattern was altered following the deposition of glacial till. The East and West Glen Rivers now meander south-westwards to a confluence below Bourne; the River Welland flows due west through Stamford towards the Wash and the River Witham rises on the higher land to the west and flows northwards to the Vale of Belvoir.


FG KeyChar:
•	Hedgerow cover is variable, but the majority of field hedgerows are well managed with a good scattering of mature hedgerow oak and ash trees.  To the south the local limestone is intermittently used in eroding field stone walls.

Edited_KeyChars:
Variable hedgerows, mainly well managed with mature oak/ash trees. Some limestone walls in the south.


FG KeyChar:
•	The area is underlain by limestones, which support shallow, well-drained calcareous loams, but there are also areas of slowly permeable and seasonally waterlogged clayey soils, developed on glacial till.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	The area is underlain by limestones, which support shallow, well-drained calcareous loams, but there are also areas of slowly permeable and seasonally waterlogged clayey soils, developed on glacial till.


FG KeyChar:
•	There are a number of fine houses with well managed designed parkland landscapes which have a strong influence on local landscape character, eg Burghley House, Grimsthorpe, Woolsthorpe Manor and Stoke Rochford Hall.
•	This is an archaeologically rich area, containing ancient trackways.

Edited_KeyChars:
An archaeologically rich area, containing ancient trackways. Many well managed designed parklands.


FG KeyChar:
•	Aside from the ancient woodlands noted above, many of the river valleys have species-rich meadows and grassland on wide enclosure road verges.

Edited_KeyChars:
Many of the river valleys have species-rich meadows and grassland on wide enclosure road verges.


FG KeyChar:
•	The Kesteven Uplands have a dispersed settlement pattern, comprising small traditional villages which are evenly distributed throughout the area.  Exceptions are the line of settlements along the edge of the Fens to the east and the cluster of larger villages around Stamford.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	The Kesteven Uplands have a dispersed settlement pattern, comprising small traditional villages which are evenly distributed throughout the area.  Exceptions are the line of settlements along the edge of the Fens to the east and the cluster of larger villages around Stamford.


FG KeyChar:
•	The land rises progressively from the edge of the Fens in the east, to the fringes of the Leicestershire Wolds in the west. The landform also becomes more undulating to the west so that the rolling topography becomes a series of low hills between 400-600m.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	The land rises progressively from the edge of the Fens in the east, to the fringes of the Leicestershire Wolds in the west. The landform also becomes more undulating to the west so that the rolling topography becomes a series of low hills between 400-600m.


FG KeyChar:
•	Minimal settlement on the ridgetops, a string of springline villages along the foot of the western scarp and larger settlements such as Sleaford and Metheringham to the east of the dipslope.  Sited on the ridgetop, Lincoln Cathedral is a dominant landmark throughout the area.
•	Active and redundant airfields along the top of the Edge.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	Minimal settlement on the ridgetops, a string of springline villages along the foot of the western scarp and larger settlements such as Sleaford and Metheringham to the east of the dipslope.  Sited on the ridgetop, Lincoln Cathedral is a dominant landmark throughout the area.
•	Active and redundant airfields along the top of the Edge.


FG KeyChar:
•	A large-scale ‘upland’ escarpment broadly divided into north and south by the River Witham which cuts through the ‘Edge’ at Lincoln.  The straight sharp western scarp, known as the ‘Cliff’ is a distinctive feature along most of the edge, sometimes with a secondary lower scarp of ironstone.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	A large-scale ‘upland’ escarpment broadly divided into north and south by the River Witham which cuts through the ‘Edge’ at Lincoln.  The straight sharp western scarp, known as the ‘Cliff’ is a distinctive feature along most of the edge, sometimes with a secondary lower scarp of ironstone.


FG KeyChar:
•	Tree cover is variable.  The drier arable upland areas are relatively open, with shelterbelts along roads and tracks; to the east a more irregular field pattern includes more hedgerows and small semi-natural woodlands; and to the north the coversands support a mosaic of conifer plantations and oak/birch woodlands.

Edited_KeyChars:
Fairly open with prominent individual oak and ash trees. Some small semi-natural oak/birch woodland.


FG KeyChar:
•	The majority of the area is an open, arable or mixed farmland landscape with a deeply rural character; but the heavier clays of the Belvoir Vale have a greater predominance of permanent pasture.

Edited_KeyChars:
Mainly open, arable or mixed farmland
More permanent pasture on heavier clays of vales at risk of drainage and improvement


FG KeyChar:
•	There are frequent nucleated settlements which often have prominent church spires and red brick houses roofed with pantiles.


FG KeyChar:
•	The character area is dominated by the slow, but powerful River Trent, which falls at a slight gradient and meanders very gradually through a broad shallow valley.  The Trent, and other rivers in the area, are relatively inconspicuous in the wider landscape.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	The character area is dominated by the slow, but powerful River Trent, which falls at a slight gradient and meanders very gradually through a broad shallow valley.  The Trent, and other rivers in the area, are relatively inconspicuous in the wider landscape.


FG KeyChar:
•	Thorn hedges between arable fields are often gappy and well trimmed; there are few hedgerow trees.

Edited_KeyChars:
Rectilinear field patterns
Sparse and well trimmed hedgerows in large-scale arable areas
Smaller fields and denser hedgerows in pastoral areas
Ditches in the Vales


JM KeyChar:
•	The open field system has left numerous traces in this landscape, notably at Laxton; and remnant ridge and furrow can be seen in the vales.  Great country house parks and gardens (some former medieval deer parks) are a feature of the Trent Valley around Newark, with smaller estates and parklands in the Vale of Belvoir.

Edited_KeyChars:
Remnant open fields
Prominent historic ridge and furrow at risk from agricultural  intensification
Country house parks and gardens (some with medieval deer parks)


FG KeyChar:
•	Pastures along watercourses, particularly the Trent washlands, have some species-rich grassland habitats, but these are generally isolated and rare in the character area.

Edited_KeyChars:
Remnant species-rich grasslands, especially in washlands
Localised remnant acid grasslands and heaths


Edited_KeyChars:
•	There are frequent nucleated settlements which often have prominent church spires and red brick houses roofed with pantiles.


FG KeyChar:
•	The vales have a gently undulating landform, with shallow ridges dropping down gently to broad river valleys.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	The vales have a gently undulating landform, with shallow ridges dropping down gently to broad river valleys.


FG KeyChar:
•	There are generally few woodlands, but tree cover becomes more frequent towards the west of the area between Nottingham and Southwell, where there are many small linear ancient oak/ash woodlands, and on the broad ridge immediately to the west of Lincoln.

Edited_KeyChars:
Generally few woodlands, many poorly managed
Many small linear ancient oak-ash woodlands along streams and on ridges to the west
Hedgerow trees provide main tree cover in vales
Riparian trees including willow pollards in Trent washlands
Localised traditional orchards


FG KeyChar:
•	The extensive historic estates and parklands of the Dukeries dominate the central; western area, south west of Worksop, but there are also small prominent pockets of estate land amidst the arable fields of the northern part of the area.

Edited_KeyChars:
Mainly arable farming in the north, with permanent pasture and flood meadow in the river meadowlands.


FG KeyChar:
•	Local buildings are of sandstone, with older buildings of red brick and pantile.

Edited_KeyChars:
Local buildings are of sandstone, with older buildings of red brick and pantile.


FG KeyChar:
•	Surface water is scarce on the porous sandstones and river valleys occur where water courses have cut down through the sandstone to form narrow pastoral floodplains which are often in sharp contrast to the surrounding arable land.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	Surface water is scarce on the porous sandstones and river valleys occur where water courses have cut down through the sandstone to form narrow pastoral floodplains which are often in sharp contrast to the surrounding arable land.


FG KeyChar:
•	Elsewhere the large rectilinear arable fields are devoid of tree cover and are enclosed by trimmed thorn hedgerows.

Edited_KeyChars:
Large rectilinear arable fields are devoid of trees and enclosed by trimmed thorn hedgerows.


FG KeyChar:
•	The majority of the area is underlain by permeable Sherwood Sandstone and has an undulating character with dry valleys (sculpted by glacial activity) and narrow river valleys.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	The majority of the area is underlain by permeable Sherwood Sandstone and has an undulating character with dry valleys (sculpted by glacial activity) and narrow river valleys.


FG KeyChar:
•	The extensive historic estates and parklands of the Dukeries dominate the central; western area, south west of Worksop, but there are also small prominent pockets of estate land amidst the arable fields of the northern part of the area.
•	The remnants of the coal industry are often conspicuous and include disused mines, pit heaps, old railway lines and mining settlements.

Edited_KeyChars:
Extensive historic estates with ornamental parklands throughout the area. Man made lakes along river valleys. Remnants of the coal industry evident.


FG KeyChar:
•	The area’s strong heathland character is often evident at roadsides and along woodland edges, where there are patches of bracken, gorse and broom.

Edited_KeyChars:
Extensive heathland, with bracken, gorse and broom on woodland edges.


FG KeyChar:
•	Settlements on the Sherwood heaths are scattered farming villages which were expanded in the 20th century to become mining settlements.  In the Dukeries there are a few nucleated estate villages and in the north a dispersed pattern of scattered villages, hamlets and isolated farmsteads.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	Settlements on the Sherwood heaths are scattered farming villages which were expanded in the 20th century to become mining settlements.  In the Dukeries there are a few nucleated estate villages and in the north a dispersed pattern of scattered villages, hamlets and isolated farmsteads.


FG KeyChar:
•	The former forests and wastes retain extensive woodland cover, particularly secondary oak-birch broadleaved woodland and conifers.
•	The area’s strong heathland character is often evident at roadsides and along woodland edges, where there are patches of bracken, gorse and broom.

Edited_KeyChars:
Extensive woodland cover, particularly secondary oak-birch broadleaved woodland and conifers. Alder and willow carrs in the river meadowlands.


FG KeyChar:
•	This area is dominated by pastoral farming, together with rough grazing on the highest land and some arable on better soils in the valleys.

Edited_KeyChars:
Mainly pastoral farming, with rough grazing on the highest land and some arable in the valleys.


FG KeyChar:
•	The dominant building material is local gritstone although limestone and red brick are found in localised areas.

Edited_KeyChars:
The dominant building material is local gritstone although limestone and red brick are found in localised areas.


FG KeyChar:
•	Many small streams and rivers, with dense tree cover, dissect the area.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	Many small streams and rivers, with dense tree cover, dissect the area.


FG KeyChar:
•	There is a variable field pattern that is usually enclosed by hedgerows on lower ground and by dry gritstone walls on the moorland fringe.

Edited_KeyChars:
Variable field pattern usually enclosed by hedgerows on lower ground and by dry gritstone walls on the moorland fringe.


FG KeyChar:
•	This is an area of undulating, rising ground underlain by bands of Carboniferous sandstone and mudstone with occasional outliers of Carboniferous limestone.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	This is an area of undulating, rising ground underlain by bands of Carboniferous sandstone and mudstone with occasional outliers of Carboniferous limestone.


FG KeyChar:
•	There is a rich industrial heritage in the area, particularly associated with the mills along the Derwent Valley.

Edited_KeyChars:
There is a rich industrial heritage in the area, particularly along the Derwent Valley, and a large reservior at Carsington.


FG KeyChar:
•	There are some patches of unimproved grassland and hay meadows in the valleys and rough grassland and heathland remnants on the enclosed moorlands.

Edited_KeyChars:
Localised acid and calcareous grassland. Heathland remnants with bracken and gorse. Unimproved grassland and hay meadows in the valleys.


FG KeyChar:
•	There is a dispersed settlement pattern of isolated farmsteads and small villages.
•	The area includes the small towns of Wirksworth, Belper and Duffield and the western fringes of Chesterfield.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	There is a dispersed settlement pattern of isolated farmsteads and small villages.
•	The area includes the small towns of Wirksworth, Belper and Duffield and the western fringes of Chesterfield.


FG KeyChar:
•	Broadleaved woodlands are scattered throughout the area, and large blocks are associated with the steep valley slopes.

Edited_KeyChars:
Broadleaved woodlands are scattered throughout the area, and large blocks are associated with the steep valley slopes.


FG KeyChar:
•	Grouse shooting and sheep grazing dominate the wild, semi-natural open moors.
•	Dairy farming with some beef cattle is typical in the sheltered valleys around the margins to the plateaux.


FG KeyChar:
•	Traditional buildings are built and detailed in local 'gritstone', and are often solitary or in a compact cluster.


FG KeyChar:
•	Fast-flowing streams run through the incised cloughs.
•	Several of the broader valleys have been flooded to form reservoirs.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	Fast-flowing streams run through the incised cloughs.
•	Several of the broader valleys have been flooded to form reservoirs.


FG KeyChar:
•	The moorland tops are largely unenclosed, with occasional gritstone walls dividing the moors.
•	The moorland fringes and valley slopes are enclosed by dry gritstone moors, and hedgerows enclose fields in the valley bottoms.


FG KeyChar:
•	The area forms a sharply defined high plateau that is underlain by Millstone Grit, giving rise to rounded hill summits and rocky outcrops and prominent linear edges.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	The area forms a sharply defined high plateau that is underlain by Millstone Grit, giving rise to rounded hill summits and rocky outcrops and prominent linear edges.


JM KeyChar:
•	The many visible historic landscape features include prehistoric stone circles, cairnfields, barrows and hillforts as well as early coal mining remains.


FG KeyChar:
•	There are wide expanses of unenclosed heather and grass moorland on the rolling upland plateaux.


FG KeyChar:
•	The most extensive areas of woodland lies between Congresbury and the Avon Gorge and on the Failand Ridge.  Elsewhere woodlands are smaller and fragmented mainly confined to steeper land.
•	Parkland is a characteristic feature of  the south and west where the woodlands and mature and exotic trees bring a distinctive local character.

Edited_KeyChars:
Small fragmented woodland on steep land - most extensive areas of woodland between Congresbury and the Avon Gorge and on the Failand Ridge
Extensive woodland in Avon Gorge
Elsewhere, woodlands smaller, fragmented and mainly broadleaf
Scattered hedgerow trees
Small farm orchards characteristic


FG KeyChar:
•	Some areas of open unenclosed downland grazing but mostly dominated by regular arable fields.  Extensive tracts of cereals, root and horticultural crops on the dip slope.

Edited_KeyChars:
Some open unenclosed downland grazing
Plateau and dip slope characterised by large arable fields
Areas of permanent and rough pasture on steeper slopes and in the mid-Surrey Hills
Wet pasture and meadows on the valley floors


FG KeyChar:
•	Local building materials include flint and Wealden bricks.

Edited_KeyChars:
Local building materials that include flint and Wealden bricks
Tile hung oast houses especially in the Kent Downs


Edited_KeyChars:
Distinctive chalk cliffs at Dover (the White Cliffs of Dover)
Wetland complex in the Medway gap sustained by the tidal river, including intertidal mudflats and grazing marsh


FG KeyChar:
•	Drove roads, plus ancient tracks including the North Downs Way and Pilgrim’s Way are a feature of the landscape.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	Drove roads, plus ancient tracks including the North Downs Way and Pilgrim’s Way are a feature of the landscape.


FG KeyChar:
•	Cut by valleys of the rivers Stour, Medway, Darent and Mole.  The steep scarp is incised by dry valleys which form gentle wide coombes.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	Cut by valleys of the rivers Stour, Medway, Darent and Mole.  The steep scarp is incised by dry valleys which form gentle wide coombes.


Edited_KeyChars:
Thick woodland shaws and mixed bushy hedges on slopes
Denuded and often gappy hedgerows around arable land
Historic parish boundaries that take in downland, scarp foot and chartland
Walls associated with the boundary of major estates
Drainage ditches on valley floors


FG KeyChar:
•	High quality agricultural land dominated by large scale arable fields, with some smaller areas of grazed wet pasture.

Edited_KeyChars:
High quality agricultural land dominated by large scale arable fields
Smaller areas of grazed wet pasture


FG KeyChar:
•	Although Blue Lias is the dominant building material, there are a variety of other materials such as oolite, sandstone and conglomerate, contrasting with many 19th Century buildings which are constructed in brick and pantile.  Tall church towers are evidence of Medieval wealth, St Michael’s on Glastonbury Tor, being the most visible landmark.

Edited_KeyChars:
Blue Lias is main traditional building material, with oolite, sandstone and conglomerate


FG KeyChar:
•	Major rivers such as the Brue, Axe and Parrett, rise on surrounding ground and cut through the Mid Somerset Hills.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	Major rivers such as the Brue, Axe and Parrett, rise on surrounding ground and cut through the Mid Somerset Hills.


FG KeyChar:
•	Hedgerows, typically containing a wide range of species and hedgerow trees are common dividing small, irregular fields except where there are planned settlements.

Edited_KeyChars:
Mostly small, irregular fields divided by species rich hedges
Some arable fields may be larger
Ditches in areas of floodplani grazing marsh  in the river valleys


FG KeyChar:
•	The underlying geology is of late Triassic and early Jurassic grey clay and limestone overlaid by red Mercia Mudstone.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	The underlying geology is of late Triassic and early Jurassic grey clay and limestone overlaid by red Mercia Mudstone.


FG KeyChar:
•	Pasture tends to be the main landcover with remnant areas of calcareous and neutral grasslands.

Edited_KeyChars:
Remnant areas of calcareous and neutral grasslands


FG KeyChar:
•	Whilst small towns and villages like Somerton and Street lie in sheltered sites, other settlements like Meare, Wedmore and Wookey lie on island rising out of the wetlands or at the wetland edge with characteristic tracks (droves) linking these settlements with the traditional summer grazing provided by the Levels and Moors.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	Whilst small towns and villages like Somerton and Street lie in sheltered sites, other settlements like Meare, Wedmore and Wookey lie on island rising out of the wetlands or at the wetland edge with characteristic tracks (droves) linking these settlements with the traditional summer grazing provided by the Levels and Moors.


FG KeyChar:
•	The Mid Somerset Hills are a series of distinctive low hills, ridges and islands dividing the Somerset Moors and Levels.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	The Mid Somerset Hills are a series of distinctive low hills, ridges and islands dividing the Somerset Moors and Levels.


FG KeyChar:
•	Whilst woodlands of ash and maple are a common feature on the ridge tops and steeper side slopes, orchards are a particular characteristic of lower land at the boundary of the Levels and Moors, close to settlements.

Edited_KeyChars:
Ash and maple woodlands most common on ridges and side slopes
Mature hedgerow trees of ash and oak and areas of succering elm
Frequent small orchards on lower land


FG KeyChar:
•	Open heathland characterises the rounded summits of the northern hills, providing rough grazing.  Below the hilltops, mixed farming is predominant.

Edited_KeyChars:
Open heathland grazing on rounded summits of northern hills
Mixed farming predominant elsewhere
Beneath summits a predominantly pastural landscape (mainly improved but with some unimproved)
Rough grassland on the scarp
Arable running along ridgelines


FG KeyChar:
•	The local vernacular building style varies due to the rich diversity of locally available building materials.

Edited_KeyChars:
Local vernacular building style varies due to  rich diversity of locally available building materials


FG KeyChar:
•	The mixed geology creates spring lines where water reaches less permeable layers.  Streams cut down the scarp to form deep, incised combes.  Long, broad valleys with streams flowing to the Vale of Taunton characterise land to the east.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	The mixed geology creates spring lines where water reaches less permeable layers.  Streams cut down the scarp to form deep, incised combes.  Long, broad valleys with streams flowing to the Vale of Taunton characterise land to the east.


FG KeyChar:
•	Former deer parks and designed parklands are a characteristic landscape feature.
•	Beech hedgebanks  bound the rectangular fields around the edge of the open plateau and on the lower agricultural land in the south.  Mixed hedgerows are used elsewhere, and stone-faced banks or earth banks are used within the combes.

Edited_KeyChars:
Beech hedgebanks bound rectangular fields around edge of open plateau and on lower ground in the south (many outgrown - see woodland and trees)
Mixed hedgerows elsewhere
Stone-faced banks or earth banks within the combes


FG KeyChar:
•	 The northern end is a high plateau of Devonian sandstone cut by deep combes while in the south the landscape is more undulating, made up of Devonian slates with limestone.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	 The northern end is a high plateau of Devonian sandstone cut by deep combes while in the south the landscape is more undulating, made up of Devonian slates with limestone.


FG KeyChar:
•	Bronze Age burial mounds, barrows, standing stones and stone circles are surviving relics of the prehistoric landscape and important landscape features.  Ridge and furrow is also visible on the moorland.

Edited_KeyChars:
Bronze Age burial mounds, barrows, standing stones and stone circles
Ridge and furrow is visible on  moorland
Former deer parks and designed parklands a distinctive feature


FG KeyChar:
•	The extensive heathlands and sessile oak woodlands are important semi-natural habitats.  Rhododendron is abundant in the valleys.

Edited_KeyChars:
Extensive moorland heaths (wih transitions between upland and lowland heath affected by bracken and rhododendron invasion)
Unimproved grasslands on combe sides


FG KeyChar:
•	Settlement is sparse, consisting of isolated farms, hamlets or small villages located along the spring line or tucked into the narrow combes and valleys.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	Settlement is sparse, consisting of isolated farms, hamlets or small villages located along the spring line or tucked into the narrow combes and valleys.


FG KeyChar:
•	The Quantock Hills are a discrete landform with a prominent and rounded profile.
•	 The northern end is a high plateau of Devonian sandstone cut by deep combes while in the south the landscape is more undulating, made up of Devonian slates with limestone.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	The Quantock Hills are a discrete landform with a prominent and rounded profile.
•	 The northern end is a high plateau of Devonian sandstone cut by deep combes while in the south the landscape is more undulating, made up of Devonian slates with limestone.


FG KeyChar:
•	The broad hilltops and plateau are largely treeless.  The steep valleys and lower slopes are well wooded with semi natural broadleaved woodland and forestry plantations.

Edited_KeyChars:
Broad hilltops and plateau largely treeless
Steep valleys and lower slopes covered with semi-natural ancient  broadleaved woodland  Rhododendron abundant in the valleys
Highly distinctive outgrown beech hedgebanks planted in the 19th century, now forming lines of  mature beech that define the field pattern


FG KeyChar:
•	The heather and grass moorlands are used for rough grazing with pasture on the lower slopes.  There are some localised areas of arable.

Edited_KeyChars:
Heather and grass moorlands used for rough grazing
Large enclosures of rough grazing around the moorland fringe
Improved pasture on lower slopes
Wet grasslands on valley floors
Localised areas of arable


FG KeyChar:
•	Farmsteads are built mainly of local slate and shale rubble, sometimes whitewashed.  A variety of local stone is used in the villages, along with cob and brick, with slate roofs.

Edited_KeyChars:
Farmsteads mainly of local slate and shale rubble, sometimes whitewashed
Also some cob and brick with slate roofs


FG KeyChar:
•	The plateau is deeply incised by short rivers sometimes cascading as waterfalls over the high coastal slopes and cliffs.  Steep sided valleys in the south form the headwaters of the Barle, Quarm and Exe rivers.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	The plateau is deeply incised by short rivers sometimes cascading as waterfalls over the high coastal slopes and cliffs.  Steep sided valleys in the south form the headwaters of the Barle, Quarm and Exe rivers.


FG KeyChar:
•	Rectilinear patterns of 19th Century enclosure extend high up to the moorland edge, bounded by beech-topped hedgebanks which have grown out to form wind-pruned lines of beech.  Elsewhere, older field patterns are enclosed by irregular hedges and stone walls.

Edited_KeyChars:
Rectilinear 19th century enclosures below moorland edge with beech-topped hedgebanks (many out-grown)
Older, irregular hedge and stone wall enclosures elsewhere


FG KeyChar:
•	The area is of high archaeological interest, with Bronze Age remains such as hill-forts, stone circles and barrows forming prominent features.

Edited_KeyChars:
High archaeological interest, including prominent hillforts, stone circles and barrows
Former deer parks on lower slopes


FG KeyChar:
•	Heather, blanket bog, grass heath and bracken dominate the moorlands with coastal and wet heath.

Edited_KeyChars:
Heather, blanket bog, grass heath and bracken on moorlands
Traditional moorland grazing by Exmoor ponies
Also coastal and wet heath
Species-rich valley grasslands with a tradition of hay meadow management


FG KeyChar:
•	The central moorlands are largely devoid of settlement.  Villages are mainly concentrated in valley bottoms, often sited around river crossing points.  Along the coastal edge there is a greater variety and density of settlement.  
•	Minehead, Dunster, Dulverton and Lynton are the main towns which serve the area.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	The central moorlands are largely devoid of settlement.  Villages are mainly concentrated in valley bottoms, often sited around river crossing points.  Along the coastal edge there is a greater variety and density of settlement.  
•	Minehead, Dunster, Dulverton and Lynton are the main towns which serve the area.


FG KeyChar:
•	Exmoor is a diverse upland landscape, rising abruptly out of the surrounding lowlands.
•	A high and spectacular steeply sloping wooded coastline forms the northern edge of the area, fringing the Bristol Channel.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	Exmoor is a diverse upland landscape, rising abruptly out of the surrounding lowlands.
•	A high and spectacular steeply sloping wooded coastline forms the northern edge of the area, fringing the Bristol Channel.


FG KeyChar:
•	Woodland, mostly ancient and oak-dominated, cloaks the steep coastal combes and inland valleys.  Former deer parks and conifer plantations are features of the lower slopes.

Edited_KeyChars:
Ancient oak-dominated woodland in steep coastal combes and inland valleys
Beech windbreaks (many outgrown hedgerows) on moorland plateau fringes
Alders and willows fringe river banks defining the course of rivers
Estates with field trees (and associated parkland) on lower slopes
Orchards a traditional features adjacent to farmsteads


FG KeyChar:
•	Permanent grassland characterises the floodplain with arable, pasture, market gardening and orchards in the vales and pasture and arable on more undulating land.

Edited_KeyChars:
Permanent pasture characterises the Tone floodplain
Arable, pasture, market gardening and orchards in the vales 
Pasture and  arable on more undulating land


FG KeyChar:
•	Red sandstone buildings and perpendicular church towers of Triassic sandstone are prominent features in the landscape.

Edited_KeyChars:
Red sandstone buildings and perpendicular church towers of Triassic sandstone are prominent


Edited_KeyChars:
The land ends in low cliffs, mainly in Blue Lias, with exposed rock formations on the beaches


FG KeyChar:
•	The River Tone and its tributaries drains the area to the south, whilst to the north Doniford Stream fed by tributaries arising from the Quantocks and Brendon Hill, drains into the sea at Watchet.  To the east many streams drain off the Quantock dip slopes and flow into the River Parrett.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	The River Tone and its tributaries drains the area to the south, whilst to the north Doniford Stream fed by tributaries arising from the Quantocks and Brendon Hill, drains into the sea at Watchet.  To the east many streams drain off the Quantock dip slopes and flow into the River Parrett.


FG KeyChar:
•	Most of the area lies below high tide level and the water level of the main river systems and is susceptible to flooding.
•	Rivers draining into the Levels and Moors include the Axe, Brue and Parrett.  Before the drainage schemes of the late 17th Century there was widespread sea and river flooding.  Current drainage relies on gravity pumps removing excessive backlogs of water.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	Most of the area lies below high tide level and the water level of the main river systems and is susceptible to flooding.
•	Rivers draining into the Levels and Moors include the Axe, Brue and Parrett.  Before the drainage schemes of the late 17th Century there was widespread sea and river flooding.  Current drainage relies on gravity pumps removing excessive backlogs of water.


Edited_KeyChars:
Rough coastal grassland and scrub and sand dunes with varied flora.


Edited_KeyChars:
Coastal grassland on indented, low coastline


Edited_KeyChars:
Dramatic limestone cliffs
Linked to the maniland by the sweep of Chesil Beach shingle ridge


Edited_KeyChars:
A highly varied and dramatic coastline strongly influenced by geology
Steep chalk cliffs in the south and west (e.g.St Catherine's Head) and dramatic chalk stacks (the Needles)
Sandstone cliffs in the east
On south coast Greensand and chert topped cliffs tower above series of terraces running down to low coastal cliffs
Sand dunes at the mouth of Newtown Creek and at St Helen's
Small areas of salt marsh associated with the estuaries of the north coast


Edited_KeyChars:
Small area of salt marsh on the banks of the Severn (technically may fall within the Severn and Avon Vales NCA)


Edited_KeyChars:
Very small areas of coastal salt marsh (area has little coast)


Edited_KeyChars:
Coastal sand dune, dune pastures and maritime heath.


Edited_KeyChars:
Largely composed of north-west facing Carboniferous Limestone cliffs with a
narrow intertidal width


Edited_KeyChars:
Very high coastal slopes and cliffs
Important sand dunes at Braunton Burrows


Edited_KeyChars:
Dunes with a thicket of sea buckthorn, storm gravel beaches and mudflats along the margins of Bridgewater Bay
Areas of salt marsh


Edited_KeyChars:
The Exe and Teign estuaries have extensive reedbeds and saltmarsh, with sandunes at their mouth


FG KeyChar:
•	Other features from this period are Georgian manors and parkland, shelterbelt and avenue tree plantings, and broad drove roads created to provide grazing for sheep en route to the coastal marshes.
•	Most land throughout the area is in arable use with large, rectilinear parliamentary enclosure fields, enclosed by clipped hawthorn hedges (although older enclosures do occur in parts).
•	The area is rich in archaeological remains, including ancient trackways, tumuli along the scarp and a strong concentration of deserted medieval villages – many make a visible contribution to landscape character.

Edited_KeyChars:
Historic manor parkland and estates, with associted tree plantings. Rich in archaeological evidence including ancient trackways, tumuli and deserted villages.


FG KeyChar:
•	In the south-west the broader valleys of the rivers Lymn and Bain have valley marshes, acid mires, alder carr and tree-lined watercourses.

Edited_KeyChars:
In the southwest valleys there are valley marshes, acid mires and alder carr. Isolated chalk grassland.  Rough pasture and scrub on the north-west scarp.


Edited_KeyChars:
•	There is a sparse settlement pattern of small, nucleated villages – building materials reflect the diverse underlying geology.


FG KeyChar:
•	This rolling upland landscape is dominated by a west-facing chalk escarpment, extensively moulded by glacial and periglacial action.
•	The escarpment takes a simple form in the north, where the plateau top has light chalky soils and the scarp face is clothed with scrub woodland and pasture.
•	On the plateau top, deep glacial meltwater channels form dramatic, steep sided dry valleys within the chalk, often lined with beech hanger woodlands.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	This rolling upland landscape is dominated by a west-facing chalk escarpment, extensively moulded by glacial and periglacial action.
•	The escarpment takes a simple form in the north, where the plateau top has light chalky soils and the scarp face is clothed with scrub woodland and pasture.
•	On the plateau top, deep glacial meltwater channels form dramatic, steep sided dry valleys within the chalk, often lined with beech hanger woodlands.


FG KeyChar:
•	On the plateau top, deep glacial meltwater channels form dramatic, steep sided dry valleys within the chalk, often lined with beech hanger woodlands.
•	Hedgerows accentuate the rolling landform and tops are marked by prominent clumps of trees, often mature beech.
•	In the south-east the chalk is masked in boulder clay on the edge of the Middle Marsh that lies to the east – here there are ancient oak and ash woodlands.

Edited_KeyChars:
Sparsley wooded area, with beech hanger woodland in valleys and mature beech trees in clumps in hedgerows. Ancient oak-ash woodland in the south-east. Semi-natural chalk woodland at Tetford.


FG KeyChar:
•	A regular pattern of medium-sized arable fields interspersed with pasture on heavy clays; variations include pre-enclosure hay meadows and pasture near Wragby, and the drained open flatlands to the north of Brigg.

Edited_KeyChars:
Mainly arable with pastoral farming on heavy clays. In some areas, localised hay meadows and drained open flatlands.


FG KeyChar:
•	Traditional building materials are predominantly brick and limestone from the adjoining Lincolnshire Edge.

Edited_KeyChars:
Traditional building materials are brick and limestone from the adjoining Lincolnshire Edge.


FG KeyChar:
•	The River Ancholme has been ‘improved’ to form a straight course from Bishopbridge to Ferriby Sluice on the Humber.  The watercourse is fed by a series of becks up to Brigg and then by the drained carrs.  To the south Barings Eau and the River Bain drain into the River Witham.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	The River Ancholme has been ‘improved’ to form a straight course from Bishopbridge to Ferriby Sluice on the Humber.  The watercourse is fed by a series of becks up to Brigg and then by the drained carrs.  To the south Barings Eau and the River Bain drain into the River Witham.


FG KeyChar:
•	Hedgerows enclose most fields – most are hawthorn, but they are often more diverse at a distance from the road and those linking the limewoods are particularly dense with a rich variety of flora.
•	The area is rich in ridge and furrow and deserted medieval villages such as Spridlington and Goltho.

Edited_KeyChars:
Regular, medium sized rectilinear fields enclosed mainly by hedgerows. Predominantly hawthorn but more diverse when linked with limewoods.


FG KeyChar:
•	A broad low lying and very gently undulating vale underlain by seasonally waterlogged loams and clay, grading to deeper calacareous loams towards Horncastle and the Lincolnshire Wolds.
•	By contrast there are deep acidic soils on the wind blown coversands which have accumulated on the eastern vale against the scarp of the Wolds at Elsham and Market Rasen and near Woodhall Spa and Coningsby.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	A broad low lying and very gently undulating vale underlain by seasonally waterlogged loams and clay, grading to deeper calacareous loams towards Horncastle and the Lincolnshire Wolds.
•	By contrast there are deep acidic soils on the wind blown coversands which have accumulated on the eastern vale against the scarp of the Wolds at Elsham and Market Rasen and near Woodhall Spa and Coningsby.


FG KeyChar:
•	The area is rich in ridge and furrow and deserted medieval villages such as Spridlington and Goltho.

Edited_KeyChars:
The area is rich in ridge and furrow and deserted medieval villages.


FG KeyChar:
•	Remnants of lowland heath (eg at Martin Moor near Woodhall Spa and Willingham Woods near Market Rasen) and the Lincolnshire Limewoods between Bardney and Wragby are the most important semi-natural habitats in the vale.

Edited_KeyChars:
Remnants of lowland heath, with acid grassland and gorse. Occasional wetlands on the fen borderlands.


FG KeyChar:
•	Sparse nucleated settlements throughout the area linked by straight east-west roads with abrupt right-angled turns.  Enclosure roads with exceptionally wide verges and enclosing hedgerows are characteristic of the vale.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	Sparse nucleated settlements throughout the area linked by straight east-west roads with abrupt right-angled turns.  Enclosure roads with exceptionally wide verges and enclosing hedgerows are characteristic of the vale.


FG KeyChar:
•	Woodland cover is variable; there is little on the central and northern clays, but there are extensive conifer plantations on the coversands and large blocks of ancient lime woodland between Wragby and Bardney.

Edited_KeyChars:
Little woodland on central and northern clays, but conifer blocks on the coversands and large blocks of ancient lime woodland between Wragby and Bardney.


FG KeyChar:
•	Towards the eastern edge of the dip slope the landscape pattern is more enclosed, with dense hedgerows, hedgerow trees and some grazed pastures as there is a transition to the heavier clay soils of the Lincolnshire Vale.

Edited_KeyChars:
Mainly arable fields with some field vegetables.


FG KeyChar:
•	Roman roads and ancient trackways such as Ermine Street follow north-south routes.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	Roman roads and ancient trackways such as Ermine Street follow north-south routes.


FG KeyChar:
•	The higher land of the Edge is devoid of streams, but there is a springline along the foot of the western scarp where the limestone meets the clay.  The River Witham cuts through the scarp at Lincoln.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	The higher land of the Edge is devoid of streams, but there is a springline along the foot of the western scarp where the limestone meets the clay.  The River Witham cuts through the scarp at Lincoln.


FG KeyChar:
•	Tree cover is variable.  The drier arable upland areas are relatively open, with shelterbelts along roads and tracks; to the east a more irregular field pattern includes more hedgerows and small semi-natural woodlands; and to the north the coversands support a mosaic of conifer plantations and oak/birch woodlands.
•	The light calcareous soils of the broad ridgetop and shallower slopes support an open landscape of rectilinear arable fields with sparse hedgerows, shelterbelts and discontinuous rubble limestone walls.
•	Towards the eastern edge of the dip slope the landscape pattern is more enclosed, with dense hedgerows, hedgerow trees and some grazed pastures as there is a transition to the heavier clay soils of the Lincolnshire Vale.

Edited_KeyChars:
Large rectilinear fields with low thorn hedgerows with limited trees on the north edge. Large open fields with no hedgerows predominate on the coversands.


FG KeyChar:
•	A large-scale ‘upland’ escarpment broadly divided into north and south by the River Witham which cuts through the ‘Edge’ at Lincoln.  The straight sharp western scarp, known as the ‘Cliff’ is a distinctive feature along most of the edge, sometimes with a secondary lower scarp of ironstone.
•	To the north an area of windblown coversands creates an acidic sandy landscape of open heath, conifers, oak and birch woods.  The coversands wrap over the cliff and extend into a low lying area between Scunthorpe and Gainsborough.
•	The light calcareous soils of the broad ridgetop and shallower slopes support an open landscape of rectilinear arable fields with sparse hedgerows, shelterbelts and discontinuous rubble limestone walls.
•	Towards the eastern edge of the dip slope the landscape pattern is more enclosed, with dense hedgerows, hedgerow trees and some grazed pastures as there is a transition to the heavier clay soils of the Lincolnshire Vale.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	A large-scale ‘upland’ escarpment broadly divided into north and south by the River Witham which cuts through the ‘Edge’ at Lincoln.  The straight sharp western scarp, known as the ‘Cliff’ is a distinctive feature along most of the edge, sometimes with a secondary lower scarp of ironstone.
•	To the north an area of windblown coversands creates an acidic sandy landscape of open heath, conifers, oak and birch woods.  The coversands wrap over the cliff and extend into a low lying area between Scunthorpe and Gainsborough.
•	The light calcareous soils of the broad ridgetop and shallower slopes support an open landscape of rectilinear arable fields with sparse hedgerows, shelterbelts and discontinuous rubble limestone walls.
•	Towards the eastern edge of the dip slope the landscape pattern is more enclosed, with dense hedgerows, hedgerow trees and some grazed pastures as there is a transition to the heavier clay soils of the Lincolnshire Vale.


FG KeyChar:
•Minimal settlement on the ridgetops, a string of springline villages along the foot of the western scarp and larger settlements to the east of the dipslope.  Sited on the ridgetop, Lincoln Cathedral is a dominant landmark throughout the area.
•	Active and redundant airfields along the top of the Edge.

Edited_KeyChars:
•Minimal settlement on the ridgetops, a string of springline villages along the foot of the western scarp and larger settlements to the east of the dipslope.  Sited on the ridgetop, Lincoln Cathedral is a dominant landmark throughout the area.
•	Active and redundant airfields along the top of the Edge.


FG KeyChar:
•	To the north an area of windblown coversands creates an acidic sandy landscape of open heath, conifers, oak and birch woods.  The coversands wrap over the cliff and extend into a low lying area between Scunthorpe and Gainsborough.
•	Tree cover is variable.  The drier arable upland areas are relatively open, with shelterbelts along roads and tracks; to the east a more irregular field pattern includes more hedgerows and small semi-natural woodlands; and to the north the coversands support a mosaic of conifer plantations and oak/birch woodlands.

Edited_KeyChars:
The coversands support a mosaic of conifer plantations and oak/birch woodlands.


FG KeyChar:
•	Rich and varied agricultural land use including wide range of arable, root crops, bulbs, vegetable and livestock.  Horticultural glasshouses are a feature.


FG KeyChar:
•	Traditional built form strongly influences the landscape, particularly historic cathedrals and churches such as at Ely and Boston.
•	Due to soil shrinkage a number of agricultural buildings are now derelict – standing at alarming angles or shored up.


FG KeyChar:
•	Marshes directly adjacent to the Wash exhibit an exceptionally open aspect (broken only by sea walls).  Occurring at the coast are river outfall structures, tidal saltmarshes and mudflats.


FG KeyChar:
•	A distinct hierarchy of rivers, drains and ditches strongly influences the strong dominant rectilinear/geometric landscape patterning and is a consistent feature of the area (consisting embanked rivers above the level of the surrounding land, roddons, major high level drains and washes).

Edited_KeyChars:
•	A distinct hierarchy of rivers, drains and ditches strongly influences the strong dominant rectilinear/geometric landscape patterning and is a consistent feature of the area (consisting embanked rivers above the level of the surrounding land, roddons, major high level drains and washes).


FG KeyChar:
•	Soils over the coastal and central fens are rich, fertile calcareous and silty.  Further inland soils are defined by dark, friable fen peat.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	Soils over the coastal and central fens are rich, fertile calcareous and silty.  Further inland soils are defined by dark, friable fen peat.


FG KeyChar:
•	Although seemingly monotonous, there is considerable variation from fen to fen (amount of settlement, landscape scale and pattern) reflecting settlement history.


FG KeyChar:
•	Predominantly cultivated with little semi-natural land remaining. Remnants of relic wet areas are rare exceptions e.g. Wicken, Woodwalton and Holme.


FG KeyChar:
•	Although seemingly monotonous, there is considerable variation from fen to fen (amount of settlement, landscape scale and pattern) reflecting settlement history.
•	Settlement pattern varies – medium to large clusters around main towns with medieval pattern of north-south drove lines occurring at the coast and fen edge.
•	Long straight roads are typical.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	Although seemingly monotonous, there is considerable variation from fen to fen (amount of settlement, landscape scale and pattern) reflecting settlement history.
•	Settlement pattern varies – medium to large clusters around main towns with medieval pattern of north-south drove lines occurring at the coast and fen edge.
•	Long straight roads are typical.


FG KeyChar:
•	Large scale, flat, open landscape with extensive vistas to level horizons.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	Large scale, flat, open landscape with extensive vistas to level horizons.


FG KeyChar:
•	Woodland cover is sparse.  There are occasional avenues to roads.  Elsewhere isolated trees have marked significance.  
•	Shelterbelts including poplar and willow occur as do leylandii hedges around farmsteads.
•	There are numerous orchards around the Wisbech area.


FG KeyChar:
•	The light calcareous soils of the broad ridgetop and shallower slopes support an open landscape of rectilinear arable fields with sparse hedgerows, shelterbelts and discontinuous rubble limestone walls.
•	Towards the eastern edge of the dip slope the landscape pattern is more enclosed, with dense hedgerows, hedgerow trees and some grazed pastures as there is a transition to the heavier clay soils of the Lincolnshire Vale.

Edited_KeyChars:
Mostly arable fields with some mixed pasture for grazing.


FG KeyChar:
•	Roman roads and ancient trackways such as Ermine Street and High Dyke follow north-south routes with one significant east-west route, Salter’s Way. Green lanes occur throughout the southern area.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	Roman roads and ancient trackways such as Ermine Street and High Dyke follow north-south routes with one significant east-west route, Salter’s Way. Green lanes occur throughout the southern area.


FG KeyChar:
•	The higher land of the Edge is devoid of streams, but there is a springline along the foot of the western scarp where the limestone meets the clay.  The River Slea follows the distinctive valley of the Ancaster Gap to the north of Grantham.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	The higher land of the Edge is devoid of streams, but there is a springline along the foot of the western scarp where the limestone meets the clay.  The River Slea follows the distinctive valley of the Ancaster Gap to the north of Grantham.


Edited_KeyChars:
Mainly open, rectilinear arable fields enclosed by limestone walls and sparse hedgerows. More irregular fields for grazing have denser hedgerows and areas of woodland.


FG KeyChar:
•	A large-scale ‘upland’ escarpment broadly divided into north and south by the River Witham which cuts through the ‘Edge’ at Lincoln.  The straight sharp western scarp, known as the ‘Cliff’ is a distinctive feature along most of the edge, sometimes with a secondary lower scarp of ironstone.
•	The light calcareous soils of the broad ridgetop and shallower slopes support an open landscape of rectilinear arable fields with sparse hedgerows, shelterbelts and discontinuous rubble limestone walls. 
•	Towards the eastern edge of the dip slope the landscape pattern is more enclosed, with dense hedgerows, hedgerow trees and some grazed pastures as there is a transition to the heavier clay soils of the Lincolnshire Vale.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	A large-scale ‘upland’ escarpment broadly divided into north and south by the River Witham which cuts through the ‘Edge’ at Lincoln.  The straight sharp western scarp, known as the ‘Cliff’ is a distinctive feature along most of the edge, sometimes with a secondary lower scarp of ironstone.
•	The light calcareous soils of the broad ridgetop and shallower slopes support an open landscape of rectilinear arable fields with sparse hedgerows, shelterbelts and discontinuous rubble limestone walls. 
•	Towards the eastern edge of the dip slope the landscape pattern is more enclosed, with dense hedgerows, hedgerow trees and some grazed pastures as there is a transition to the heavier clay soils of the Lincolnshire Vale.


FG KeyChar:
•	The highest land of the plateaux is remote, devoid of buildings and man-made structures.
•	Traditional buildings are built and detailed in local 'gritstone', and are often solitary or in a compact cluster.
•	Some larger settlements are found in the valleys, including some village centres and expanded industrial settlements like New Mills.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	The highest land of the plateaux is remote, devoid of buildings and man-made structures.
•	Traditional buildings are built and detailed in local 'gritstone', and are often solitary or in a compact cluster.
•	Some larger settlements are found in the valleys, including some village centres and expanded industrial settlements like New Mills.


FG KeyChar:
•	The area forms a sharply defined high plateau that is underlain by Millstone Grit, giving rise to rounded hill summits and rocky outcrops and prominent linear edges.
•	There are strongly contrasting landscapes in deeply-incised cloughs around the margins of plateaux.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	The area forms a sharply defined high plateau that is underlain by Millstone Grit, giving rise to rounded hill summits and rocky outcrops and prominent linear edges.
•	There are strongly contrasting landscapes in deeply-incised cloughs around the margins of plateaux.


FG KeyChar:
•	Many enclosed valleys contain broadleaved semi-natural woodland and some are dominated by large forestry plantations.


FG KeyChar:
•	The dominant land use is improved grassland for intensive dairy farming.

Edited_KeyChars:
The dominant land use is improved grassland for intensive dairy farming.


FG KeyChar:
•	Buildings in villages are often constructed of limestone. Other buildings in the area, particularly in towns, are more variable, with limestone and 'gritstone' used either singly or in combination.

Edited_KeyChars:
Buildings and barns in villages are often constructed of limestone. In towns, gritstone is also used.


FG KeyChar:
•	Many of the dales are dry or seasonal, but clear, fast-flowing rivers and streams are found in some.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	Many of the dales are dry or seasonal, but clear, fast-flowing rivers and streams are found in some.


FG KeyChar:
•	Small narrow fields, often of medieval origin are found around many villages, while larger rectangular fields occur away from the villages.
•	Fields are enclosed by white, limestone, dry stone walls and walled up lead rakes.

Edited_KeyChars:
Fields are enclosed by white, limestone, dry stone walls and walled up lead rakes. Fields are small and narrow near villages and large and rectangular away from them.


FG KeyChar:
•	The area is elevated Carboniferous limestone plateau dissected by steeply cut dales and gorges with rock outcrops, screes, and cave systems.
•	Much of the limestone is overlain by deposits of loess, which give rise to fertile loamy soils in many parts of the plateau. Higher areas and steeper slopes are more strongly influenced by the underlying limestone.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	The area is elevated Carboniferous limestone plateau dissected by steeply cut dales and gorges with rock outcrops, screes, and cave systems.
•	Much of the limestone is overlain by deposits of loess, which give rise to fertile loamy soils in many parts of the plateau. Higher areas and steeper slopes are more strongly influenced by the underlying limestone.


FG KeyChar:
•	Small narrow fields, often of medieval origin are found around many villages, while larger rectangular fields occur away from the villages.
•	Long-disused workings for limestone and ores, particularly lead rakes, provide features rich in ecological, historical and cultural interest.

Edited_KeyChars:
Fields of medieval origin around villages. Dew ponds common over the plateau. Features from disused limestone ore works.


FG KeyChar:
•	Houses are located on higher ground in this thinly populated area.
•	An influx of visitors during the summer leads to crowding in tourist towns.
•	Roads cling to the valley sides, linking settlements that cluster along the edges.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	Houses are located on higher ground in this thinly populated area.
•	An influx of visitors during the summer leads to crowding in tourist towns.
•	Roads cling to the valley sides, linking settlements that cluster along the edges.


FG KeyChar:
•	The Broads are a series of river valleys that have been excavated for peat and subsequently flooded.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	The Broads are a series of river valleys that have been excavated for peat and subsequently flooded.


FG KeyChar:
•	Broadleaved woodland is present as copses and plantations on higher land in the upper reaches of the valleys.
•	Alder carr woodland and willow pollards are typical of the wetter areas, such as the undrained peat fen.

Edited_KeyChars:
Broadleaved woodland copses and plantations in upper valley reaches
Alder carr woodland and scrub in wetter areas/ undrained fen
Willow pollards


FG KeyChar:
•	Traditional unimproved wet pasture is grazed with sheep and cattle. 
•	Extensive drained and ploughed productive arable land is protected from floods by sea walls.
•	There are some areas of more mixed agriculture on higher ground.

Edited_KeyChars:
Reclaimed farmed marshland
Extensive drained arable land behind sea walls

Traditional unimproved wet pasture grazed with sheep and cattle
Some areas of mixed farming on higher ground


FG KeyChar:
•	The Thames edge marshes are themselves subject to the chaotic activity of various major developments including ports, waste disposal, marine dredging, urbanisation, mineral extraction and prominent power stations plus numerous other industry-related activities such as petrochemical complexes.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	The Thames edge marshes are themselves subject to the chaotic activity of various major developments including ports, waste disposal, marine dredging, urbanisation, mineral extraction and prominent power stations plus numerous other industry-related activities such as petrochemical complexes.


FG KeyChar:
•	The pervasive presence of water and numerous coastal estuaries extends the maritime influence far inland. 
•	A deeply indented coastline with distinctive island and peninsula features.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	The pervasive presence of water and numerous coastal estuaries extends the maritime influence far inland. 
•	A deeply indented coastline with distinctive island and peninsula features.


FG KeyChar:
•	Hedgerows are absent from the large, rectilinear fields.
•	Open grazing pastures are patterned by a network of ancient and modern reed-fringed drainage ditches and dykes, numerous creeks and a few vertical boundaries such as hedges or fences.

Edited_KeyChars:
A landscape of large rectilinear fields demarcated by ditches, general lack of hedgerows 
Remaining grazing pastures patterned bya network of ancient and modern  ditches, dykes and creeks
On the south coast (e.g.Isles of Sheppey, Dengie, Canvey, Isle of Grain and Mersea) some thick hedgerows of scrub elm 
Fringing reed vegetation of ditches gives a strong marshland character


FG KeyChar:
•	Contrast and variety within the Estuary is provided by Sheppey, a long low island rising from a stretch of very flat marsh along the Swale estuary in Kent with low, steep, clay cliffs facing towards Essex across the Thames estuary.
•	Strong feeling of remoteness and wilderness persists on the open beaches and salt marshes, on the reclaimed farmed marshland and also on the mudflats.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	Contrast and variety within the Estuary is provided by Sheppey, a long low island rising from a stretch of very flat marsh along the Swale estuary in Kent with low, steep, clay cliffs facing towards Essex across the Thames estuary.
•	Strong feeling of remoteness and wilderness persists on the open beaches and salt marshes, on the reclaimed farmed marshland and also on the mudflats.


FG KeyChar:
•	Distinctive military heritage, such as Napoleonic military defences and 20th century pillboxes, occurs on the coastline.
•	The modern day pattern of local parishes reflects the historical layout of settlements, surrounded by farmland on the higher ground inland and giving way to marsh on the waterfront.
•	The historically important coastal cargo transport network of 'Thames Barges' developed as a result of the settlement pattern.

Edited_KeyChars:
Distinctive coastal military heritage eg Napoleonic defences and 20th century pillboxes
Coastal cargo transport network of 'Thames Barges'
Field and decoy ponds
Archaeological resources under grassland and arable cultivation
Remnant areas of parkland on higher ground


FG KeyChar:
•	Numerous small villages and hamlets are related to the coastal economy of fishing (at Mersea), boatbuilding and yachting.  
•	The modern day pattern of local parishes reflects the historical layout of settlements, surrounded by farmland on the higher ground inland and giving way to marsh on the waterfront.
•	The historically important coastal cargo transport network of 'Thames Barges' developed as a result of the settlement pattern.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	Numerous small villages and hamlets are related to the coastal economy of fishing (at Mersea), boatbuilding and yachting.  
•	The modern day pattern of local parishes reflects the historical layout of settlements, surrounded by farmland on the higher ground inland and giving way to marsh on the waterfront.
•	The historically important coastal cargo transport network of 'Thames Barges' developed as a result of the settlement pattern.


FG KeyChar:
•	A predominantly flat, low-lying landscape where extensive open spaces are dominated by the sky.
•	Contrast and variety within the Estuary is provided by Sheppey, a long low island rising from a stretch of very flat marsh along the Swale estuary in Kent with low, steep, clay cliffs facing towards Essex across the Thames estuary.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	A predominantly flat, low-lying landscape where extensive open spaces are dominated by the sky.
•	Contrast and variety within the Estuary is provided by Sheppey, a long low island rising from a stretch of very flat marsh along the Swale estuary in Kent with low, steep, clay cliffs facing towards Essex across the Thames estuary.


FG KeyChar:
•	Trees begin where the marsh ceases and the ground starts to rise on land overlying the London Clay Lowlands. 
•	Tree cover is limited to farmsteads, dwellings and villages on the higher ground.

Edited_KeyChars:
General absence of trees and woodland
The trees that there are on rising ground inland of marshes
Tree cover focused around farms and settlement
On the southern Kent shores orchards enclosed be tree lines and windbreaks


FG KeyChar:
•	Arable cultivation dominates much of the remaining area of the Sandlings.  In some areas field boundaries have been removed creating extensive open landscapes.  Elsewhere hedges and tree belts have been retained creating a smaller scale landscape.  Open air pig farming is also found across the area.  Soils are light and sandy often resulting in wind erosion.  The use of large scale irrigation equipment is common.

Edited_KeyChars:
Arable cultivation on much of Sandling
Open air pig farming
Soils light and sandy often resulting in wind erosion
Use of large scale irrigation equipment common
Traditional pastoral landscapes in river valleys


FG KeyChar:
•	Rural buildings are traditionally constructed from soft hued red bricks with thatch or pantiles.  Some buildings are rendered and painted (often in ‘Suffolk Pink’) while others (including churches) make extensive use of locally occurring split or knapped flint.

Edited_KeyChars:
Traditional rural buildings in soft-hued red brick with thatch or pantiles
Some buildings rendered and painted (often in ‘Suffolk Pink’)


FG KeyChar:
•	Coastal settlements are distinctive in character, many enjoying a relatively unspoilt atmosphere.  Some show the influence of Dutch architecture.

Edited_KeyChars:
Low lying coast with shingle beaches (including Orford Ness spit)
Eroding clifflines
Intertidal mudflats and saltmarsh characteristic along estuaries
Areas where flood defences have been abandoned, recreating marshes and mudflats


FG KeyChar:
•	The area is laced with lanes and minor roads, many enclosed between hedges and field boundary trees, though in some areas trees have been lost and hedgerows have removed.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	The area is laced with lanes and minor roads, many enclosed between hedges and field boundary trees, though in some areas trees have been lost and hedgerows have removed.


FG KeyChar:
•	The coastline is cut by a series of more sheltered estuaries comprising the lower reaches of the Rivers Stour, Orwell, Deben, Butley and Alde, together with low lying valleys of Hundred River, Minsmere River, Dunwich River and the River Blyth.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	The coastline is cut by a series of more sheltered estuaries comprising the lower reaches of the Rivers Stour, Orwell, Deben, Butley and Alde, together with low lying valleys of Hundred River, Minsmere River, Dunwich River and the River Blyth.


FG KeyChar:
•	Marshes, wetlands and drained pastures and fields are characteristic of these estuaries and valleys.
•	The estuaries and rivers are separated by rolling areas of the Sandlings, comprising a mosaic of heathland, woodland and farmland.
•	The area is laced with lanes and minor roads, many enclosed between hedges and field boundary trees, though in some areas trees have been lost and hedgerows have removed.

Edited_KeyChars:
Enclosure mainly by hedges, creating a small scale landscape
Some areas have been subject to hedgerow removal creating extensive open landscapes


FG KeyChar:
•	The area’s soils comprise glacial sands, gravels and till, covering the crag deposits that lies along the North Sea coast.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	The area’s soils comprise glacial sands, gravels and till, covering the crag deposits that lies along the North Sea coast.


FG KeyChar:
•	The lower slopes, particularly the steeper ones, are densely wooded often with patches of ancient woodland and occasional plantations.

Edited_KeyChars:
Steep lower slopes densely wooded, scrub encroaching upward
Patches of ancient woodland and occasional plantations including wooded dingles and streams
Densely treed hedgerows in areas of small irregular pasture fields
Trees line water courses
Localised orchards


FG KeyChar:
•	Extensive arable farming dominates the fertile soils of the lower ground; pasture is more common on the higher ground with steeper slopes.
•	There are many traditional and bush orchards on slopes throughout the area.

Edited_KeyChars:
Extensive arable farming on fertile soils of lower ground
Pasture more common on steeper and higher ground
Permanent pasture and meadows along river valleys


FG KeyChar:
•	Farm buildings to the west are predominantly red sandstone, however to the east of the river Wye include brick, timber framed and grey Silurian limestone.

Edited_KeyChars:
Farm buildings to west mainly red sandstone
East of River Wye building materials include brick, timber framed and grey Silurian limestone


FG KeyChar:
•	There are several narrow meandering floodplains with rivers important for fishing.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	There are several narrow meandering floodplains with rivers important for fishing.


FG KeyChar:
•	Fields are bounded by hedgerows of variable height, which are often species-rich, particularly along lanes.

Edited_KeyChars:
Hedgerows often dense and species-rich, particularly along lanes, of variable height
Some hedgerows of very considersble age


FG KeyChar:
•	Much of the area is underlain by Old Red Sandstone, although the area around the Woolhope Dome incorporates Silurian limestones, shaley mudstones and siltstones.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	Much of the area is underlain by Old Red Sandstone, although the area around the Woolhope Dome incorporates Silurian limestones, shaley mudstones and siltstones.


FG KeyChar:
•	Iron Age forts are found on several hill summits.
•	The west of the area was part of Archenfield, giving Welsh character.

Edited_KeyChars:
Iron Age hillforts on several summits
West of area was part of Archenfield, giving Welsh character
Parklands scattered across the landscape


FG KeyChar:
•	Unimproved grassland is found on areas of open common land and occasional remnants in small fields.

Edited_KeyChars:
Acidic unimproved grassland on open common land
Remnant limestone grasslands on slopes 
Unimproved or semi-improved neutral grasslands with abundant wild daffodils
Remnants of species rich lowland meadows in valleys
Significant fen and reed bed habitats in river valleys (needs to be checked - not described in the Biodiversity section of the NCA Profile)


FG KeyChar:
•	There is a dispersed settlement pattern throughout the area with small hamlets and clustered settlement around commons.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	There is a dispersed settlement pattern throughout the area with small hamlets and clustered settlement around commons.


FG KeyChar:
•	This is an undulating landscape with some prominent rounded hills, lower rolling ground and narrow meandering flood plains.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	This is an undulating landscape with some prominent rounded hills, lower rolling ground and narrow meandering flood plains.


FG KeyChar:
•	Woodland is largely confined to the steeper slopes adjacent to the flood plain and to hillsides.
•	Trees are often found in groups around farmsteads including small areas of parkland style planting.
•	There are also scattered trees along hedgerows and water courses.

Edited_KeyChars:
Woods mainly on slopes above floodplain and on hillsides
Distinctive tree clumps and parkland style planting around farmsteads (in need of management)
Scattered hedgerow and riparian trees
Many traditional (and bush) orchards on slopes throughout area


FG KeyChar:
•	Agriculture is primarily dairying with some livestock rearing.  In addition, there are small holdings of small to medium-sized fields supporting market gardening, orchards, livestock rearing and horse grazing.
•	Commons, together with areas of enclosed farmland are used extensively for sheep grazing which tends to be unrestricted.

Edited_KeyChars:
Pastoral landscape outside of the Forest supports livestock rearing, with some dairying along the edge of the Severn and Avon Vale
Smallholdings of small- to medium-sized fields, supporting market gardening, orchards, livestock rearing and horse grazing
Commons and the statutory Forest are used extensively for unrestricted sheep grazing
Remnant areas of wet grassland


FG KeyChar:
•	Traditional buildings represent a wide range of materials including sandstone, limestone, brick, pebble dash, slate and tiles, whilst more recent buildings are of white render with slate or dark pantile roofs.

Edited_KeyChars:
Traditional buildings represent a wide range of materials including sandstone, limestone, brick, pebble dash, slate and tiles
More recent buildings of white render with slate or dark pantile roofs


FG KeyChar:
•	Several small rivers drain from the plateau to the south and south east into the Severn, whilst others feed the Wye to the north and west.  Occasional pools are evident.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	Several small rivers drain from the plateau to the south and south east into the Severn, whilst others feed the Wye to the north and west.  Occasional pools are evident.


FG KeyChar:
•	Fields sizes range from small, irregular enclosures to medium rectilinear fields.  Fields are either bounded by hedgerows or stone walls with few hedgerow trees.

Edited_KeyChars:
Fields sizes range from small, irregular enclosures to medium rectilinear fields
Fields either bounded by hedgerows or stone walls with few hedgerow trees


FG KeyChar:
•	The strong chequer-board pattern of the ‘rhynes’ or ditches reflects a planned landscape reclaimed from wetland, initiated in the 13th Century with the construction of raised causeways and further major reclamation undertaken in the late 17th Century.

Edited_KeyChars:
Strong chequer-board pattern from reclaimed land from the 13th to 17th century
Boundaries on the Levels and Moors are generally  deep, wide, wet rhynes
On drier land hedge boundaries vary in condition


FG KeyChar:
•	Extensive peat extraction, particularly in the Brue Valley to the east, gives rise to a more complex landscape of excavations and re-colonising scrub with ‘reclaimed’ nature reserves adding further variety.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	Extensive peat extraction, particularly in the Brue Valley to the east, gives rise to a more complex landscape of excavations and re-colonising scrub with ‘reclaimed’ nature reserves adding further variety.


Edited_KeyChars:
Rich archaeological remains on the peat moors


FG KeyChar:
•	Pockets of semi-natural unimproved grasslands, wet meadows, fen, mire and reed beds are highly characteristic and underline the area’s wetland character, as does the emergent vegetation of the rhynes.
•	Extensive peat extraction, particularly in the Brue Valley to the east, gives rise to a more complex landscape of excavations and re-colonising scrub with ‘reclaimed’ nature reserves adding further variety.

Edited_KeyChars:
Pockets of semi-natural unimproved grasslands, wet meadows, fen, mire and reed beds


FG KeyChar:
•	A strong planned element is also evident in towns and villages, with buildings running along single streets e.g. Langport and surrounded by strip fields.
•	Settlements on the edge of the Levels include Weston super Mare and Bridgwater and the M5 is a significant feature.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	A strong planned element is also evident in towns and villages, with buildings running along single streets e.g. Langport and surrounded by strip fields.
•	Settlements on the edge of the Levels include Weston super Mare and Bridgwater and the M5 is a significant feature.


FG KeyChar:
•	The area ranges from peat moors, clay levels, inland ‘burtles’ or gravel beds to the mudflats, storm gravel beaches and dune belt fringing the edge of Bridgwater Bay.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	The area ranges from peat moors, clay levels, inland ‘burtles’ or gravel beds to the mudflats, storm gravel beaches and dune belt fringing the edge of Bridgwater Bay.


FG KeyChar:
•	Many parts of the Levels and Moors are treeless, although groups of pollarded willow fringe the islands and ridges of higher ground and mark the lines of rhynes.

Edited_KeyChars:
Largely treeless although isolated small woodlands
Groups of pollarded willow on islands and following the banks of rhynes
Hedgerow trees (ash and oak)
Orchards a particular feature of the land at the edge of the levels


Edited_KeyChars:
Permanent pasture is the main landcover with significant areas of arable


FG KeyChar:
•	A complex pattern of rivers  -  the Axe, Sid, Otter and Yarty - flows southward whilst the Fivehead River flows to the north east.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	A complex pattern of rivers  -  the Axe, Sid, Otter and Yarty - flows southward whilst the Fivehead River flows to the north east.


FG KeyChar:
•	Field boundaries throughout the area are defined by either hedgerows or hedgebanks.
•	A strong rectilinear pattern of 18th Century enclosure and straight roads characterises the plateau which contrasts with the small-scale Medieval enclosures of the slopes and vale bottoms.

Edited_KeyChars:
Hedgerows or hedgebanks throughout often with associated ditches on poorly drained soils
Strong rectilinear pattern of 18th century enclosure on plateau
Small medieval enclosures on slopes and vale bottoms


FG KeyChar:
•	Whilst the Upper Greensand of the upper plateaus and ridges gives rise to poor, slightly acidic soil, the river valleys consist of fine loams and silts.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	Whilst the Upper Greensand of the upper plateaus and ridges gives rise to poor, slightly acidic soil, the river valleys consist of fine loams and silts.


FG KeyChar:
•	A strong rectilinear pattern of 18th Century enclosure and straight roads characterises the plateau which contrasts with the small-scale Medieval enclosures of the slopes and vale bottoms.
•	Bronze Age barrows are found predominately between Gittisham Hill and Black Down with Iron Age Hill forts both on the coast and inland including, Castle Neroche.

Edited_KeyChars:
Bronze Age barrows and Iron Age Hillforts both on the coast and inland including Castle Neroche
Remnant areas of parkland associated with larger estates
Small water features a common feature in this often ill-drained landscape


FG KeyChar:
•	A mosaic of lowland and wet heathland, neutral/acidic and species rich grassland, wet and ancient oak ash woodland, are characteristic of the area with extensive coastal salt marshes in the Axe floodplain.

Edited_KeyChars:
Lowland and wet heathland vulnerable to loss
Remnant areas of  neutral/acidic and species-rich grassland


FG KeyChar:
•	Settlement on higher ground is sparse with farm buildings following straight enclosure roads.  Elsewhere settlements lie mainly along the spring lines at the foot of escarpments or at river crossing points.
•	The Character Area includes the towns of Honiton, Chard, Axminster and the coastal towns of Lyme Regis, Seaton and Sidmouth.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	Settlement on higher ground is sparse with farm buildings following straight enclosure roads.  Elsewhere settlements lie mainly along the spring lines at the foot of escarpments or at river crossing points.
•	The Character Area includes the towns of Honiton, Chard, Axminster and the coastal towns of Lyme Regis, Seaton and Sidmouth.


FG KeyChar:
•	The dramatic open, heathy windswept scarp slopes and plateaus up to 300m AD in the north fall southwards to sheltered lush valleys and ridges.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	The dramatic open, heathy windswept scarp slopes and plateaus up to 300m AD in the north fall southwards to sheltered lush valleys and ridges.


FG KeyChar:
•	A well wooded appearance dominates the area, created by wooded scarp slopes, shelterbelts and avenues, and coniferous and deciduous plantations of beech, oak and pine, willow-dominated carr woodland on valley spring lines, and hedgerow trees and copses.
•	Traditional orchards were once a key characteristic of the southern half of the Character Area and remnants still remain.

Edited_KeyChars:
Wooded scarp slopes with ancient oak-ash woodland
Shelterbelts, copses, avenues, plantations of beech, oak, pine
Willow-dominated carr on valley spring lines
Mature hedgerow trees, often beech and scattered in-field trees largely of oak
Remnant traditional orchards in southern half of area


FG KeyChar:
•	Mixed farming predominates but as the land rises northwards to the Culm, pasture becomes more widespread and the Redland soils disappear.

Edited_KeyChars:
Mixed farming predominates with more pasture in the north
Remnant wet grasslands and rush pasture within river valleys
Marginal areas of rough grassland


FG KeyChar:
•	Cob, red sandstone and thatch rural buildings are distinctive to the area.
•	Linhays – open-fronted animal shelters of timber frame or stone – are a feature.

Edited_KeyChars:
Cob and red sandstone construction with thatch characterise rural dwellings 
Longhouses and cross passage houses characteristic
Linhay animal shelters are distinctive of the area


FG KeyChar:
•	Extensive urban development, coastal resorts, roads and railways are found on the lower valleys and coast.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	Extensive urban development, coastal resorts, roads and railways are found on the lower valleys and coast.


FG KeyChar:
•	Much of the area is characterised by winding sunken lanes, irregular field patterns and varied hedgebanks, often rich in wildflowers.
•	The lower floodplain and coastal landscapes, by contrast, have large, open arable fields and low-cut hedges.

Edited_KeyChars:
Floodplain and coastal landscapes have large open fields with lowcut hedges
Irregular field pattern with flower rich hedgebanks elsewhere


FG KeyChar:
•	Soils derived from red sandstone give this area its name.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	Soils derived from red sandstone give this area its name.


FG KeyChar:
•	Large parks and manor houses occur near the towns.

Edited_KeyChars:
Bronze Age barrows  found on the Haldon Hills and a number of Iron Age hill forts, such as at Stoke Hill
Parkland and estate planting associated with manor houses


FG KeyChar:
•	The Exe and Teign estuaries have extensive reedbeds, saltmarshes and sand dunes.

Edited_KeyChars:
Estuarine habitats: reedbeds and marshes
Land in the west of the NCA rises to the flat, flint-topped Haldon Hills with some remnant lowland heath
Remnant areas of species-rich and Culm grassland


FG KeyChar:
•	Large parks and manor houses occur near the towns.
•	Settlement is mainly dispersed farmsteads and hamlets; villages are often of medieval origin and layout.
•	Extensive urban development, coastal resorts, roads and railways are found on the lower valleys and coast.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	Large parks and manor houses occur near the towns.
•	Settlement is mainly dispersed farmsteads and hamlets; villages are often of medieval origin and layout.
•	Extensive urban development, coastal resorts, roads and railways are found on the lower valleys and coast.


FG KeyChar:
•	Steep-sided valleys with wide floodplains cut through the hilly landscape, the hills gradually decreasing in height toward the coast.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	Steep-sided valleys with wide floodplains cut through the hilly landscape, the hills gradually decreasing in height toward the coast.


FG KeyChar:
•	Large woodlands are confined mainly to the steep valley sides.
•	Elsewhere, particularly in the upper valleys, small, irregular, broadleaved woodlands and copses may give a strong sense of enclosure.
•	East of the Exe the land rises to dry, open heathland with gorse, scattered pine, wind-trimmed beech and wooded ridges.
•	West of the Exe the conifer plantations and heathland of the Haldon Hills rise high above the valleys.
•	In the lower valleys there are open flood meadows with little tree cover.

Edited_KeyChars:
Large woodlands on valley sides with small broadleaved woodland in the upper valleys
Hedgerow trees and small copses often give a wooded appearance to the hills
Scattered field trees in more open landscapes including riverside trees marking the line of water courses


FG KeyChar:
•	Pasture (dairying, beef cattle (traditionally including Devon Reds) and sheep) is the dominant land use and there are significant areas of semi-natural vegetation.

Edited_KeyChars:
Mosaic of improved and unimproved grassland
Also significant areas of arable
Significant areas of semi-natural vegetation including areas of the highly characteristic Culm grassland

 (Culm grassland occurs as patches on common and unimproved land.  It describes damp unimproved grasslands that are found overlying the Culm Measures and  incorporates a diverse range of vegetation communities from mire, fen, swamp and wet heath vegetation communities.  As it is classificed with the BAP Habitat for purple moor grass and rush pasture it is considered here (under wet grassland), although aspects of its vegetation are picked up under 'F Semi-natural Habitats')


FG KeyChar:
•	Rural buildings are traditionally of cob and thatch or slate.

Edited_KeyChars:
Rural buildings traditionally of cob and thatch or slate


Edited_KeyChars:
Wide range of coastal landscape features
Sand dune and estuarine features including saltmarsh in the Taw-Torridge estuary
High wooded cliffs and combes around Clovelly
Rugged, rocky, exposed Atlantic coastal cliffs in the west


FG KeyChar:
•	Main roads tend to follow ridges and have wide verges.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	Main roads tend to follow ridges and have wide verges.


FG KeyChar:
•	Ridges are separated by an intricate pattern of incised valleys forming the catchments of the rivers Taw, Mole, Torridge and the upper reaches of the Tavy.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	Ridges are separated by an intricate pattern of incised valleys forming the catchments of the rivers Taw, Mole, Torridge and the upper reaches of the Tavy.


FG KeyChar:
•	Ridgetop fields are generally large and regular, representing parliamentary enclosures, with low hedgerows and hedgebanks that reveal long views.
•	By contrast, valley sides have winding sunken lanes, irregular older fields, and earth hedgebanks of mixed species.
•	There is a mosaic of improved and unimproved grassland.

Edited_KeyChars:
Large, regular fields of the Parliamentary enclosures on ridge tops with low hedgerows and hedgebanks 
By contrast, valley sides have irregular older fields enclosed by  earth hedgebanks with mixed species


FG KeyChar:
•	Culm Measures give rise to heavy, infertile soils on the hilltops and valley bottoms; some valley sides have more fertile and better-drained soils.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	Culm Measures give rise to heavy, infertile soils on the hilltops and valley bottoms; some valley sides have more fertile and better-drained soils.


FG KeyChar:
•	Clusters of Bronze Age barrows are found on the ridgetops.

Edited_KeyChars:
Clusters of Bronze Age barrows are found on the ridgetops
Localised parkland landscapes


FG KeyChar:
•	There is a mosaic of improved and unimproved grassland.
•	Culm grasslands occur on patches of common and unimproved land.

Edited_KeyChars:
significant areas of semi-natural vegetation
Culm grasslands occur on patches of common and unimproved land

 (Culm grassland occurs as patches on common and unimproved land.  It describes damp unimproved grasslands that are found overlying the Culm Measures and  incorporates a diverse range of vegetation communities from mire, fen, swamp and wet heath vegetation communities.  As it is classificed with the BAP Habitat for purple moor grass and rush pasture it is considered here (under wet grassland), although aspects of its vegetation are picked up under 'F Semi-natural Habitats')


FG KeyChar:
•	Small settlements are sited at river crossing points or in prominent hilltop locations.
•	Coastal resorts and development occur at Bideford, Westward Ho!, Clovelly and Bude and locally have a strong visual influence on landscape character.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	Small settlements are sited at river crossing points or in prominent hilltop locations.
•	Coastal resorts and development occur at Bideford, Westward Ho!, Clovelly and Bude and locally have a strong visual influence on landscape character.


FG KeyChar:
•	Spectacular cliffs and broad, rolling ridges up to around 200m AOD offer wide views across a remote landscape.
•	Ridges are separated by an intricate pattern of incised valleys forming the catchments of the rivers Taw, Mole, Torridge and the upper reaches of the Tavy.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	Spectacular cliffs and broad, rolling ridges up to around 200m AOD offer wide views across a remote landscape.
•	Ridges are separated by an intricate pattern of incised valleys forming the catchments of the rivers Taw, Mole, Torridge and the upper reaches of the Tavy.


FG KeyChar:
•	There are some substantial valley and coastal woodlands (oak, birch and rowan) and some large blocks of plantation woodland on the moors.
•	Otherwise there is little tree cover except wind-shaped hedgerow, in-field and farmstead trees (oak, ash and beech, the latter typically occurring on high ground).

Edited_KeyChars:
Substantial valley and coastal woodlands (oak, birch and rowan)
Large blocks of plantation woodland on the moors
Generally little tree cover except wind-shaped hedgerow, in-field and farmstead trees (oak, ash and beech, the latter typically occurring on high ground).


FG KeyChar:
•	The distinctive character of the ridge stems from its history as the site of a series of Royal Forests from the 13th century.  The remnants of these woodlands at Salcey Forest (Yardley Chase) and Whittlewood remain important landscape features.
•	11% of the character area is wooded and the extensive blocks of oak/ash woodland are supplemented by tracts of more recent conifer plantations.

Edited_KeyChars:
Distinctive character of the ridge stems from its history as the site of a series of 13th century Royal Forests now found as remnants in Salcey Forest (Yardley Chase) and Whittlewood, including areas of ancient wood pasture
11% of NCA wooded - extensive blocks of oak/ash woodland supplemented with tracts of more recent conifer plantations
Hedgerow oaks and ash trees - Dutch elm disease has had a dramatic effect, resulting in the widespread loss of hedgerow trees


