Reasons for Designation
Roman camps are rectangular or sub-rectangular enclosures which were constructed and used by Roman soldiers either when out on campaign or as practice camps; most campaign camps were only temporary overnight bases and few were used for longer periods. They were bounded by a single earthen rampart and outer ditch and in plan are always straight-sided with rounded corners. Normally they have between one and four entrances, although as many as eleven have been recorded. Such entrances were usually centrally placed in the sides of the camp and were often protected by additional defensive outworks. Roman camps are found throughout much of England, although most known examples lie in the midlands and north. Around 140 examples have been identified and, as one of the various types of defensive enclosure built by the Roman Army, particularly in hostile upland and frontier areas, they provide an important insight into Roman military strategy and organisation.
Despite the fact that it has undergone cultivation, the Roman temporary camp 435m north west of Hetton North Farm retains significant archaeological deposits; below ground features, including pits, post holes and defensive ditches will provide evidence relating to its construction, use and abandonment. Additionally, the monument provides insight into the Roman military campaigns and the occupation of northern Britain.
Details
The monument includes the remains of a Roman temporary camp, situated on a gentle south facing slope. The camp survives as an enclosure, sub-rectangular in shape with rounded corners, forming a slightly elevated platform measuring approximately 50m by 60m. It is surrounded by a single bank and outer ditch which are visible as low earthworks and as crop marks on aerial photographs. These defences are interrupted by a single entrance in the centre of the south east side.
Legacy
The contents of this record have been generated from a legacy data system.
Legacy System number:
ND 439
Legacy System:
RSM - OCN
End of official list entry
