The spatial distribution of Holocene cryptotephras in north-west Europe since 7Â ka: implications for understanding ash fall events from Icelandic eruptions

► We present distribution maps of 22 Holocene tephras from NW European deposits. ► We demonstrate that the tephra occurrences are, in most cases, spatially clustered. ► Tephras are relatively rare in Scandinavia and more common in Ireland than expected. ► Basaltic tephras are spatially restricted due to preservation and dispersal factors. ► Our analysis will inform future tephrochronological and hazards research.