Riddlesdown Common with its disused chalk quarry is a nature reserve and SSSI (Site of Special Scientific Interest) and is situated near the busy A22 north of Whyteleafe.

Centuries ago sheep grazed on this once quiet and rural part of the North Downs. The name Riddlesdown was first recorded in the 14th century and originates from the words rid (cleared), leah (woodland) and down (hill).

In the 18th century local people simply helped themselves to the chalk in the quarry until Riddlesdown Lime Works Ltd. opened in the 1820s. Tons of chalk was extracted over the years and lime was produced by burning chalk in kilns in the quarry.

During the Second World War prisoners of war were sent to work there and after the War it was owned by the Blue Circle Cement Company until its closure in 1967. It is now owned by the City of London Corporation (see cityoflondon. gov.uk).

The vertical, warm, sheltered, south facing slopes of the quarry have now reverted to nature by the colonisation of numerous chalk-loving plants, making it an ideal habitat for wildlife. Although the quarry is closed to the public and surrounded with a high security fence, organised groups are given prearranged guided walks during the summer months by rangers to view flowers, birds, insects and butterflies.

The success of this story is how an old industrial site has been colonised by wildlife, and has become an oasis of conservation amongst the hustle and bustle of the 21st century.