Quartzite tors, stone stripes and slopes at the Stiperstones, Shropshire, England
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.26485/BP/1981/28/5%20Keywords:
tors, patterned ground, freeze-thaw weathering, Devensian glaciationAbstract
This study examines the morphology and origin of tors, associated slopes, and patterned ground features in the Stiperstones Ridge, western Shropshire. The ridge, composed of highly jointed Ordovician Arenig quartzite, hosts some of Britain's most distinctive tors. Detailed slope measurements and analysis of patterned ground, especially sorted stripes and stone polygons, reveal features characteristic of periglacial environments. The distribution and morphology of these landforms, including rock stripes composed of angular quartzite blocks and vegetation-filled polygons, suggest formation during the Devensian glaciation under severe cold conditions. The study supports the Palmer and Radley (1961) single-cycle periglacial model over alternative theories, such as Linton’s deep weathering model. Present-day processes, including frost action and seepage, appear to have limited geomorphic significance.
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