Geophysical Survey at Stud Cottage, Crafton, Buckinghamshire
Year: 2025
Type: report
Abstract: This geophysical survey was completed using a Sensys FMG650/3 system. Readings were recorded at a resolution of 0.01 nT and data collected with a traverse interval of 1 m and a sample interval of between 0.16 - 0.25 m. Data was collected by traversing the survey area in 4 m increments using a hand-pushed non-magnetic cart system to achieve the best possible results. The survey produced good results throughout, and confirmed the presence of numerous anomalies that are likely to be archaeological in origin. Anomalies within Field 1 highlight multiple phases of land use, likely dating to the medieval period. A large, unrecorded ditch extends across the width of both Field 1 and Field 2, likely to indicate a former boundary. Furthermore, this anomaly runs on a parallel alignment to the modern boundary to the north which indicates an earlier period of land division within the medieval to post-medieval landscape. Numerous rectilinear anomalies are clearly noted within the dataset which are encompassed by a larger boundary feature, which covers much of the southwest corner of Field 1. Furthermore, there a clear indications of previous land use within the same period in form of relatively weaker linear and semi-circular anomalies, which have clearly been truncated as the historical landscape has evolved. Additional evidence of earlier medieval to post-medieval land division is also noted within Field 2, as are anomalies that are indicative or former trackways. A small focal point of weaker, anthropogenic features is present in the southwestern portion of Field 2, which may denote an earlier stage of land use within the field. Ridge and furrow trends are also present within Fields 1 and 2 which is characteristic of medieval to post-medieval cultivation. This strongly suggests that the land was later cleared of all structural and boundary features and repurposed for large parcels of agricultural crop. Numerous, sub-circular features are also noted throughout the Site, which are indicative of pit-like features associated with mineral extraction or refuse. The remaining anomalies noted with the dataset are limited to ferrous disturbances along the survey boundaries and ferrous "spikes". Modern services also the length and width of Fields 2 and 3, respectively. A large area of increased magnetic response is noted in the northeast corner of Field 2, which has likely been caused redeposited materials associated with modern agricultural activity or landscaping.
Source: Archaeology Data Service
DOI: 10.5284/1142345
Author: Yates, Daniel
Language: English
Subfield: Geophysics
Field: Earth and Planetary Sciences
Domain: Physical Sciences
Open Access status: green
OpenAlex ID: W7162000335