The Vallum, a New Fort Annexe and a Triple-ditched Enclosure at Halton Chesters, Investigated by Multi-Method Geophysics [dataset]
Year: 2026
Type: dataset
Abstract: Landscape-scale magnetic gradiometry has revealed the only definitive fort annexe on Hadrian’s Wall at Halton Chesters fort. Stratigraphy inferred from early 20th century excavations and the new magnetic gradiometry suggests that this annexe may have respected the Vallum ditch, questioning the hypothesis of the Vallum's function as a military exclusion zone behind the Wall. The survey also revealed a previously unknown triple-ditched enclosure which may pre-date Hadrian’s Wall, perhaps a fortlet. The possible fortlet’s landscape position is interpreted in the context of patterns of movement and control before the construction of Hadrian’s Wall. Alongside stratigraphic geophysical surveys (resistivity profiles and GPR), these results underscore the transformative potential of multi-method geophysical prospection along Hadrian’s Wall.
DOI: 10.15128/r1vt150j350
Author: Bithell, Sam
Institution: Durham University
Subfield: Ocean Engineering
Field: Engineering
Domain: Physical Sciences
Open Access status: green
OpenAlex ID: W7171682003
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