Field Walking

Purpose 

The main goal of field walking is to gain an initial understanding of a site's archaeological potential without destructive excavation. This process allows archaeologists to: 

• Discover new sites that are not visible on the surface.

• Assess the extent, nature and period of past human activity in an area.

• Identify target areas for further investigation by showing "hotspots" or concentrations of finds. 

Methodology

The methodology is systematic to ensure comprehensive data collection: 

• Systematic Survey: A grid is laid out over the field.  We will usually mark out a set of 30m x 30m grids (using highly accurate GPS equipment). The same set of grids is used for field walking, metal detecting, magnetometry and/or resistivity, allowing the resulting maps from each different survey to be directly overlaid to ensure the effective comparison of results.  

• Collection and Recording: A team of field walkers lines up and moves across the field following this grid system.  Each person is responsible for observing a specific 30m x 30m grid or width of ground within a grid, collecting and bagging any artefacts they find. The location of each finds bag is carefully recorded by the individual grid number.  If you haven't field walked before don't worry we will buddy you up with a more experienced walker.

• Analysis: The collected data is later analyzed and plotted on distribution maps. The density and types of artefacts (e.g., pottery, flint tools, building materials)  can be used to identify both the nature and period of past activity, such as a bronze age settlement, a Roman Villa, or a Medieval trade route. 

Best Conditions

Field walking is most effective under specific conditions: 

• Ploughed fields: Tilling the soil brings buried artefacts to the surface.

• Good visibility: The best time for field walking is after the field has been ploughed and weathered by rain, which washes the soil off the artefacts, making them easier to spot.

• No crop cover: The ground surface needs to be clearly visible.

Equipment

We will provide the finds bags and Sharpie pens.  Other than that field walking does not require any specialist equipment,  only a stout pair of walking boots or shoes, preferably with ankle support as you will be walking over uneven ploughed land.  Always come dressed for the weather - coat and waterproofs, if rain is forecast or hat and sun tan lotion if its going to be a sunny day.  You will be out in the open in the middle of a field with very little or no shade/protection from the elements.  Also (as with all our activities) don't forget to bring a folding chair, drinks, snacks and your lunch!  

Typical finds from field walking