most of the former gravel workings are to be found (see map 3(b)). Here the deposit is
probably well over 2m thick in places and in general the depth of the deposit decreases
downslope to Forest Edge where the London Clay outcrops. The decrease in depth is not
uniform and, from studying material caught up in the root systems of fallen trees, it is
clear that London Clay can be near the surface in areas where there are apparently thick
deposits of sand and gravel. The map of the geology, also drawn from evidence of
material caught up in the root systems of fallen trees, shows approximately the extent of
the sands and gravels to a depth of a few centimetres (though it should be noted that on a
national level superficial deposits such as these are mapped only if they attain a depth of
1m or more). A further point to note is that the division between the two deposits is not
as marked as is shown on the map and physical processes such as downslope erosion
must further blur the boundary between the two formations. London Clay can also be
exposed in areas of sand and gravel by the erosion of ditch sides.
Topography and Aspect
Lords Bushes is on a south-east facing slope overlooking the valley of the River
Roding. The land surface drops fairly evenly over a distance of 825m (a slope of 1:20)
from a maximum height of approximately 79m (O.D.) in the extreme north west corner
to a height of about 38m (O.D.) on the eastern edge (Forest Edge).
Drainage
Drainage is achieved by four main ditches (see map 3(b)) at least two of which were
probably dug in order to drain gravel workings. One of these (the longest) was re-
excavated in early 1979
Soils
Woodland soils are very complex and a number of factors such as the underlying
geology, slope, drainage and nutrient status must all be taken into account when
assessing the soil types of a given area. In Lords Bushes soils on glacial gravels are acid,
base deficient and a characteristic feature is a relatively deep layer of partly decomposed
leaf-litter: a 'mor' almost peaty in consistency.
The climatic regime of south-eastern England produces wet conditions in winter,
while the soils tend to dry out in the summer (spectacularly so in 1976).
Surface features
Lords Bushes being formerly part of a wood-pasture system lacks the woodbank
typical of ancient coppiced woodland. Around much of the perimeter of Lords Bushes
are ditches, presumably of recent origin to define the boundary of the woodland against
possible encroachment by the adjacent houses, as well as for drainage purposes. Those
dug on the border of Monkhams Lane prevented cars from entering on to the woodland.
Until quite recently vehicles were able to go up and down Monkhams Lane, access is
now restricted by a series of wooden posts across either end of the lane.
Knighton Wood, on the other side of Monkhams Lane, has a woodbank:
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