The earthworks surrounding Stainton in North Yorkshire are part of a rich archaeological tapestry that speaks to the region’s ancient past. These structures are believed to be remnants of extensive field systems, possibly dating back to the post-Roman period.
Location: North Yorkshire
Grinton Lodge Earthworks
The earthworks that sit on the hillside between Grinton Lodge and the B6270 are part of a fascinating archaeological landscape in North Yorkshire. These features are distinct from the nearby Grinton-Fremington Dyke System, which dates back to the post-Roman period and is believed to have formed part of the boundary of an early British kingdom.
Newton Kyme Henge
Newton Kyme Henge occupies a slight rise on the south bank of the River Wharfe immediately west of the village of Newton Kyme (OS grid SE 45945 44982), its maximum external diameter extending to around 250 m (heritagegateway.org.uk). The monument is best understood as a Class IIa henge of Late Neolithic–Early Bronze Age date, defined by three concentric ditch circuits with a turf-and-earth bank wedged between the inner and middle ditches.
Bainbridge Roman Fort
Particularly of note is the multiple defense ditches to the west, the extension of the entire fort to the east and the well defined entranceway to the south (other entrances are available)But the real stunner is the 2 interior shots: firstly the interior of the classic fort itself where we have a road coming in from the south entrance and going north, surrounded by at least 5 buildings, all with wall lines clearly defined.
Bainbridge Camp – Hill Fort
The subject of much speculation and, frankly, little fact this looks like a classic hill fort to us, check out the below elevation map of the area with the hillfort showing up beautifully. We have also included elevation profiles so you, dear readers, can appreciate the classic hill top location: note how from all directions the hillfort perches nicely on the top of the highest point: visible from all directions and can see in all directions. A classic see & be seen location, achieving the twin aims of defence and impressing visitors.
Sinderby Henge
Although all the existing literature assures us that the Great Henge Alignments of North Yorkshire are now covered by – The Langthorpe Earthwork, Cana Barn Henge, Nunwick Henge and Hutton Moor, finishing with the astounding triple Henge alignment at Thornborough, this may not necessarily be the case.

