NHER 44939 (Monument record) - Multi-period cropmarks

August 2006. Norfolk NMP.
A group of multi-period cropmarks, including a series of probable field boundaries, are visible on aerial photographs to the south of St Mary’s Road, Aldeby (S1-S3). A series of field boundaries of possible medieval to post medieval date are located within the same fields and have been recorded separately (NHER 44938). The site is centred on TM 4537 9252.

These cropmarks are located in close proximity to a multi-period finds assemblage (NHER 41979), although Roman finds predominated. A group of fragmentary ditches have been recorded to immediate north of the road and tentatively interpreted as being Roman in date (NHER 44937). It seems likely that at least some of these multi-phase cropmarks also date to the Roman period.

The majority of the cropmarks are too fragmentary for any detailed interpretation and phasing to take place. The majority appear to be former field boundaries of unknown date. At TM 4549 9256 is a possible incomplete elongated rectilinear enclosure (S1), measuring 13m across and potentially 40m long. The date and purpose of this cropmark is unknown.

To the south of the site, towards Sutton’s Farm, is a series of parallel ditches running NE-SW, several of them are double ditched. These cropmarks are not particularly clear on the oblique aerial photograph (S2), due to the angle of the image. A number of geological cropmarks are also visible within this area, which may be masking or leading to misinterpretation of archaeological features. It is possible that some of the linear cropmarks located on the lower parts of the site, running towards the valley floor and marshes to the south, may be more recent drainage features. It is possible that the meandering linear cropmark, running from TM 4547 9262 to TM 4542 9251, may represent a natural feature such as a former channel.
S. Massey (NMP), 15 August 2006.