Rock Oven: At the southern end of Hyning Scout Wood is a large, well preserved lime kiln built in part on a rock outcrop. It's constructed of large blocks of limestone and as you spy it through the trees it has the look of some sort of Inca temple! Some courses of stone may be missing from the upper part of the kiln. Cunningly, it was constructed on one of the many limestone outcrops to save material. The hearth is unusually deep front to back. The bowl is open and protected by new mesh cover.
Heritage: This is one of many kilns in the Arnside/Silverdale AONB, which were used for 'baking' limestone to make lime for mortar and use on fields to improve fertility.
"The reason for their decline is largely explained by changes that occurred during the industrial revolution. Large limeworks were built in close proximity to quarries and produced relatively vast quantities of lime for sale at comparatively low prices. Early industrial limeworks around this area included one at Holme, producing Holmepark Lime, and one located at Sandside near the present day quarry site. Lime also was transported from further afield, from the huge quarry workings in Buxton, Derbyshire, for example. The building of the main Lancaster to Carlisle Railway in 1844 and the Carnforth to Ulverston Railway in 1857 significantly contributed to the easy transport of such material."
Hyning Scout Wood is an ancient wood now in the care of the Woodland Trust. Numerous paths run parallel to the road, as does a substantial limestone outcrop. It is a rich place with a diversity of flora. The cache is placed with the kind permission of the Woodland Trust. "Stroll beneath big beech and sweet chestnuts dating back maybe 200 years. Rare ferns and flowers include the downy currant and the rigid buckler fern."
A pleasant circular walk can be had taking in this cache and the other Rock Oven at the north end. Best place to park is shown on the other cache page. An old track runs past the kiln from the Warton/Yealand road and it's possible to park at the end, but don't block the gate. The paths can be a bit muddy in wet weather but the area is not boggy. Each season brings different delights in the wood.
Please note: the cache is not hidden in the structure of the kiln. Beware thorns! Gloves may be useful, or roll up a jacket!
