Great Haddon, Peterborough: An Archaeological Evaluation Assessment

Abstract

Cambridge Archaeological Unit (CAU) undertook a trenched evaluation at Great Haddon, Peterborough, Cambridgeshire in order to assess the archaeological potential of the site prior to a proposed housing development. The evaluation was carried out between the 18th August and 13th October 2021. No early prehistoric activity was recorded; however, two distinct areas of Iron Age activity were present, including a dispersed probable Early Iron Age settlement area consisting of pit clusters, a curving gully, at least one enclosure and a large watering hole concentrated within the south-western part of the area; and a more compact, probable later Iron Age site consisting of an enclosure, ring-ditch and associated features located close to the eastern edge of the proposed development. A single Romano-British ditch which likely connected to activity outside the northern limit of the area, together with a potential Romano-British field system within the southern part of the site were also recorded. The higher ground within the south-western half of the area was subject to periodic post-medieval quarrying, and several post-medieval ditches probably constituting part of a field system were also located within this part of the site, whilst the remainder of the site yielded medieval/post-medieval agricultural features in the form of furrows and small ditches.