Outwoods - Discovering Charnia
In 1956 and 1957, two schoolchildren independently made a startling discovery in this area. The local rocks are Precambrian in age, and at that time were thought to be too old to contain evidence of life. The astonishing fossil found by Tina Negus and Roger Mason was therefore about to turn science on its head.
Visit our Outwoods – Discovering Charnia geosite to unearth the story of a fascinating discovery, and the amazing science that has been undertaken since to reveal Charnia’s hidden story.
Our geosite is located near the cafe, at What3Words location ///CABS.REPLAYS.LENGTH , where you can view a set of interpretation panels to learn more about Charnia.
The Outwoods is 110 acres of ancient woodland to the south of Loughborough and is one of the oldest surviving woodland sites in Charnwood.
The Outwoods consists of a variety of different routes and walks, including an easy access path with a bird feeding station. There is a 24 hour car park for visitors, a children’s natural play area and a cafe. The north side of the ancient woodland is home to an display of beautiful bluebells during Spring every year.
The Outwoods is designated a Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI) by Natural England, which means it is protected by law to conserve its wildlife and geology. It is also part of the ancient Charnwood Forest and is the most easterly part of the National Forest.
The ancient woodland was gifted to the people of Loughborough in 1946 by two local benefactors, Allan Moss and George Harry Bowler, and is managed by the Outwoods Management Committee.