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Earthwork
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Earthworks can take the form of banks, ditches and mounds. They are usually created for a specific purpose. A bank, for example, might be the remains of a boundary between two or more fields. Some earthworks may be all that remains of a collapsed building, for example, the grassed-over remains of building foundations.
In the winter, when the sun is lower in the sky than during the other seasons, earthworks have larger shadows. From the air, archaeologists are able to see the patterns of the earthworks more easily. Earthworks can sometimes be confusing when viewed at ground level, but from above, the general plan is much clearer.
Archaeologists often carry out an aerial survey or an earthwork survey to help them understand the lumps and bumps they can see on the ground.
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FIELDWORK *
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A usually temporary earthwork or fortification, the latter constructed by military forces operating in the field. Use more specific type where known.
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FEATURE *
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Areas of indeterminate function.
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FIELD *
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An area of land, often enclosed, used for cultivation or the grazing of livestock.
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COUNTRY PARK *
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An area of managed countryside designated for visitors to enjoy recreations, such as walking specified parks and trails, in a rural environment. Often provides public facilities such as parking, toilets, cafes and visitor information.
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TRACKWAY *
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A pathway, not necessarily designed as such, beaten down by the feet of travellers.
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EARTHWORK *
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A bank or mound of earth used as a rampart or fortification.
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HOLLOW WAY *
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A way, path or road through a cutting.
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TERRACE *
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A row of houses attached to and adjoining one another and planned and built as one unit.
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* Copyright of English Heritage (1999)
