Trans Woolhope Natur Fld Clb 49 (1)

The article explores the evidence concerning settlement and landscape use in and around Stretton Grandison, from the Roman period through to the start of the twentieth century. Influences discussed include the presence of Roman roads through the area; the influence of the church from pre-Norman times through to the post-medieval period; land ownership, and the move from manorial control to that of wealthy farmers; and the creation of a landscaped estate around Homend during the nineteenth century. Includes

The article puts together an account of the partial excavation in 1949--50 of a ring-ditched enclosure at Lords Wood, Whitchurch, by the Archaeological Society of Monmouth School, using notes and drawings from the excavation. The pear-shaped enclosure lies on a small plateau across the River Wye from two Roman villa sites, and finds of pottery and a bronze fibula indicate a time-span of the first to third centuries AD. Includes

The study aims to interpret Anglo-Saxon documentary evidence from the 972 AD charter of Actune and to relate this to a landscape which is still largely undisturbed, in the hope that this will help in understanding the early settlement of Acton.

Report detailing the results of excavations in 1978 within the great tower of Longtown Castle, Longtown, in advance of restoration work. The castle was part of the marcher estates of the Lacy family established in the immediate post-Conquest period; a stone keep built on top of a motte stands at the corner of three baileys, with a further enclosure to the north. Three phases of development are suggested for the castle motte and earthwork defences, with successive extensions first by the addition of the eastern bailey, and second by the enclosure to the north. Evidence of medieval occupation suggests that the second phase enclosure was brought into domestic use. The report also describes the historical and documentary background of the site, the layout of the castle and its relationship to the village, its date, and its regional context in relation to other defensive structures of the period.

Short accounts of archaeological investigations carried out in Herefordshire during 1997 by the County Archaeological Service; Archaeological Investigations Ltd; Marches Archaeology; and investigations at Hereford Cathedral; with an introduction by the author.