Birmingham & Warwicks Arch Soc Trans (116)

Archaeological investigations in advance of a new gas pipeline in Stratford-on-Avon District were undertaken in 2000 by Archaeology Warwickshire. Work included the evaluation of several known sites, further open-area excavations at two sites, geophysical survey and watching briefs. At Walton, Wellesbourne, geophysical survey and excavation investigated a moderately well-preserved Iron Age settlement complex which included ditched enclosures and pit burials placed alongside a boundary ditch. Further geophysical survey depicted an agglomerated complex of roundhouses, enclosures and open spaces juxtaposed either side of the boundary ditch, representing a unique settlement type in the region. An unusual C-shaped ditch adjacent to the pit burials enclosed a hollow filled with charcoal and fuel-ash slag, then capped with limestone rubble. Possible interpretations of this structure are discussed. A previously unknown Romano-British settlement site occupied from the mid-2nd to 4th century AD was identified at Long Marston during a watching brief. However, further investigation of this site was not permitted. At Goldicote, Alderminster, geophysical survey indicated possible features associated with the deserted medieval village. Trial trenching and subsequent excavation revealed evidence for a stone farmhouse and other buildings, yard areas and boundary ditches. A significant assemblage of finds including ironwork and pottery reflected the activities of a typical rural medieval village.