White Lias is a type of fine-grained limestone which occurs locally in parts of England including Warwickshire and parts of Somerset. The name 'lias' is derived from quarrymen's dialect for "layers" as 'white lias' and the more common 'blue lias' can be seen as being in natural layers when quarried. White lias is relatively durable and easy to carve. Pale beige and white in colour with a fine texture, it is well suited for interior decorative work.[1]. The White Lias is late Triassic in age, roughly 205 million years old.
White lias is currently quarried at Bowden Quarry near Langport, Somerset and is mainly used in flooring, walling and paving slabs - both coursed and layered. Evidence of white lias can be found in buildings in the nearby towns of Midsomer Norton, Radstock, Wincanton, Sparkford and Langport.[1]