The Nottinghamshire Wolds comprise a series of low hills and flat areas that are in the main underlain by a geological type of land called glacial till (‘Oadby Till’). The characteristic open valleys of the Wolds were created during the last glacial period through the action of glaciation and meltwater
The name Wold is derived from the Old English wald meaning “forest”, (cognate of German Wald, but unrelated to English “wood”, which has a different origin). Wold is an Anglian form of the word, as in other parts of England, different variations can be found.
Over the years the meaning has changed from “forest” to “open high ground”. Wold originally would have applied to high forest land. However when the forest was cleared for agricultural uses, it is probable that the original name survived.
The present day Nottinghamshire Wolds merge with the Lincolnshire Wolds and are extensively used for agriculture.