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Woodland Archaeology and History

Walking through History
Step into the hidden history of the woodland and discover how generations of people have shaped the landscapes we live and work in today. Learn to read the signs beneath your feet, uncovering traces of past industries, woodland management, and rural life woven into the landscape.

Reading the landscape

With thousands of years of changing land use across Britain, our ancient woodlands are rich with hidden features and forgotten stories.

Banks, boundary ditches, charcoal hearths, saw pits, trackways and even military remains all leave their mark on the landscape, offering a fascinating glimpse into how people have lived, worked and managed these woods over the centuries. 

 

Course Outline

During the course we will explore a range of woodland archaeological features and learn how to recognise and interpret the signs left behind by past generations. 

Topics covered may include:

  • Ancient woodland boundaries, banks and ditches
  • Coppice stools and evidence of historic woodland management
  • Charcoal hearths and traces of woodland industries
  • Saw pits and timber processing sites
  • Old trackways, holloways and extraction routes
  • Boundary markers and estate features
  • Agricultural use of woodland and wood pasture
  • Military remains and wartime woodland use
  • Reading maps, landscape clues and historic features in the field
  • Understanding how traditional woodland crafts shaped the modern landscape.

 

The course combines guided walks, practical observation and discussion, helping you develop the skills to “read” the woodland and uncover the hidden history beneath your feet.

Woodland Archaeology - an image showing a wood bank in the woods

Site

Unless otherwise stated all of our courses will be carried out in our own woodland here in Hampshire

Food and refreshments

There will be an ample supply of tea/coffee on tap but no other food is provided, we can of course set up the bbq if requested.

Accommodation

There are a good number of local hotels and b and b’s in the area for which we can give you detail on application.

Costs 

£60 per day

Reductions for group booking

New courses and dates available