Field Systems

An introduction to field systems. They represent a physical manifestation of farming, both animal husbandry and cultivation, from its prehistoric origins to the present day and the earliest examples may be identified from patterns of boundaries preserved in or buried beneath the modern landscape.

Descriptions of Prehistoric, Roman Period, Medieval and Post-Medieval field systems include discussions of what different patterns mean in terms of land use, land division and administration and agricultural technology. Associations of early fields with round barrows; barrow cemeteries; linear boundaries; hillforts; settlements and enclosures are also discussed as are associations between medieval open fields and contemporary settlements and related agricultural structures such as hollow ways and barns.