NHER 49575 (Monument record) - Cropmarks of possible Saxon grubenhauser or extraction pits

June 2007. Norfolk NMP.
The cropmarks of a cluster of sub-rectangular pits, possibly Saxon grubenhauser or later extraction pits, are visible on aerial photographs to the east of Braydeston Hall Lane (S1). The site is centred on TG 3417 0923. Cropmarks of sub-rectangular pits of a similar size and arrangement have been interpreted as possibly Saxon grubenhauser (S2).

The site consists of a series of oblong and sub-rectangular pit-like features, ranging in length from 4.5-7m and 2.5-6m across. Some of the pits are obviously cut into one another, indicating more than one phase of excavation or extraction. No Saxon date finds have been recorded for the immediate vicinity. It is possible that the pits could have been created through episodic gravel extraction, although it would be unusual for such neat and rectangular cuts to have been dug.
S. Massey (NMP), 29 June 2007.