Tag: Archaeology

Guide – Archaeological Periods in Western Europe

A landscape showing the evolution of human history

Understanding the archaeological periods across Western Europe is essential for exploring the evolution of human societies from prehistory to the beginnings of written history. These periods are generally defined by shifts in technology, social organization, and the environment, and they often vary slightly from region to region.

Guide – Landscape Features

Field systems and earthworks at Grassington

This is a placeholder for the introduction page for our Guide to recognising and understanding landscape features

Guide – Landscape Features: Drainage Gullies

A typical modern looking field drain

Identifying and Interpreting Field Drainage Gullies When conducting a field walk, it’s essential to be able to identify and interpret the various types of features that appear on the landscape. One common feature you might encounter is a drainage gully—a shallow ditch or channel, often running across fields, which is used to direct water away …

Continue reading

Guide – The Flora and Fauna of Prehistoric Britain

Before we delve into the appearance of humans on the landscape, it’s important to understand the flora and fauna that dominated the earth, and particularly Britain, during the Pleistocene and Holocene epochs. The development of ecosystems in prehistoric times was heavily influenced by the global climatic shifts of the Ice Ages.

Guide – Introduction to Fieldwalking

Fieldwalking is one of the simplest and most accessible forms of archaeological survey. It involves systematically walking over a landscape, searching for surface artifacts—such as pottery, stone tools, and animal bones—that may have been left behind by past human activity. This activity can offer valuable insights into ancient settlements, trade routes, and other key elements of the past.

Guide – Introduction to Glacial Archaeology

A frozen River close to Keld in the Yorkshire Dales

Glacial archaeology is a fascinating field that examines the impact of glaciation on the landscape, and how ancient human activity interacted with the forces of ice and meltwater. The processes of glacial erosion and deposition have left behind a variety of landforms, such as moraines and glacial terraces, which not only shape the topography of the region but may also provide clues to human occupation and activity in prehistoric times.

Guide – Photography: Camera Buying Guide

A photographer attempting to take a photo while standing on the edge of a clif

When it comes to archaeological photography, capturing the best possible images—whether of small artifacts or large sites—requires thoughtful consideration of the camera’s capabilities. The right camera allows you to document sites and findings clearly, effectively, and with long-lasting quality.

Guide – Photography: Framing the Shot

Earthwork features from Stainton Swaledale

When photographing archaeological sites, the key to a successful shot lies not just in the technology you use but in how you frame the scene, manage lighting, and anticipate the environment. The art of capturing the best possible image is a blend of technical understanding and creative intuition.

Guide – Introduction to Photography

Gold Head from St Andrews Church Aldborough

Photography has long been an essential tool in archaeology, providing a visual record of sites, finds, and features. In the context of archaeological research, photos do more than simply document—they offer crucial evidence that can be revisited, analysed, and shared.

Guide – The Power of Air Photo Coverage

Thornborough Southern Henge from the air

When it comes to uncovering the secrets of the past, air photography is an invaluable tool that offers a bird’s-eye view of archaeological sites and their surrounding landscapes.

Contact Us
close slider