Underground on a Sunny Day: Newmarket Road Lime Kiln

This lime kiln is on the site of one of Norwich's several former chalk mines, now an overgrown patch of woodland close to Newmarket Road. Although not terribly deep, it was nevertheless cold enough down there to be able to see one's breath, and this on a warm and clear day. The sheer abundance of green plant life crawling over the steps leading down to the kiln was possibly the most striking aspect.

Beneath the Streets - Harford Hills Calk Mine pt 2

Beneath the Streets - Harford Hills Chalk Mine pt 1

One of the many long-abandoned chalk mines in Norwich. Disused since the end of the Second World War, some go back to the twelfth century. Apparently, this mine was the last to be discontinued.

Deep, cold, and black as death down there. On a warm day up top, I could see my breath in the torchlight down there. A few times, I would switch my torch off, just to allow the sheer underground darkness to overwhelm me. Unsettling, but cool.

There's Chalk in Them There Woods

Wandering round Danby Woods, a small patch of urban woodland on the outskirts of Norwich. Formally the site of a chalk quarry and mine, and this is clearly apparent in looking at the landscape.

The entrance to the mine is sealed, so the last couple of shots were taken through a gap in the hatchway. The mine is now a breeding ground for bats.