Monument record 43 - Possible Prehistoric Settlement, east of Castle Farm

Cropmarks of possible prehistoric enclosures and other features identified on aerial photographs. However, these features were not identified during the Northamptonshire NMP project. In 2026, a large enclosure complex identified by magnetometer survey. The settlement comprises at least four rectilinear enclosures containing numerous smaller enclosures, compounds, pits and ring ditches, together with probable associated peripheral enclosure and ditch features beyond the main core. The complex extends beyond the northern limit of the surveyed area.

{2} Magnetometer survey identified a substantial concentration of archaeological anomalies in the north-eastern part of the site. These comprise at least four large rectilinear ditched enclosures enclosing numerous smaller internal enclosures or paddocks, together with pit clusters, ring ditches and additional internal boundaries. The arrangement forms a coherent enclosed settlement landscape rather than isolated archaeological features. The enclosure complex occupies approximately 4ha within the surveyed area and continues north beyond the limits of the survey, indicating that its full extent remains unknown. Several weaker magnetic anomalies surround the principal enclosure group. Although less clearly defined, these are considered likely to be archaeological in origin and probably represent additional pits, ditches and enclosure features associated with the wider settlement complex. The morphology and organisation of the anomalies indicate a planned landscape of enclosed occupation, stock management and agricultural activity.

<1> Northamptonshire HER Collection of Aerial Photographs, NCC AP: SP4942/006, 025 (Aerial Photograph(s)). SNN104822.

<2> Thomas Cockcroft, 2026, Survey Report SUMO-23709: Land north of Banbury Lane, Middleton Cheney (Report). SNN117237.

Record last edited

Oct 8 2026 3:49PM