I just discovered via the BBC a little-known, and mostly unexcavated, Roman fort called "Whitley Castle," about 12-15 miles SW of Vindolanda, near the pretty little market-town of Alston. The BBC site has a short video clip (under "Archaeologists study the fort")of Stewart Ainsworth (of Time Team fame) doing a geophys survey there earlier this year. The ditches & ramparts look absolutely incredible. And there's a beauty to the area that's at times similar to and at times very different from the Wall. Thought I'd pass the link along to any and all who were looking for little side ventures whilst not digging or drinking! (Or both)

Happy June!

-- Harry

That's definitely one to visit this July Harry. Thanks for the link. It looks great in the light that was there on the day they were filming.

Kate.

A great fort in superb condition covered by grass and cow pats, and the most impressive series of fort dicthes to be seen anywhere in the UK. Get a good map though, it is easy enough to find but is not signposted, if you get to Alston you have gone too far. Nor is there a car park or any other facilities, oh, and watch out for the bull in the field as well. :D

Andy

You’ve missed it for this year, but you might like to know ……
Whitley Castle (Roman name thought to be Epiacum) is positioned roughly midway along the Maiden Way, the Roman road between Bravoniacum (Kirkby Thore) and Carvoran. The site was the venue for a walk and talk as one of the many events (for day-offs or non-digging partners?) organised by the North Pennines AONB Partnership. (www.northpennines.org.uk)

Sat 9 Aug 2pm – 5pm 2008
Whitley Castle: A Walk through Time (link to events program - north pennines events)
North Pennines AONB Partnership & English Heritage
Join archaeologists Stewart Ainsworth (English Heritage/TimeTeam) and Paul Frodsham (AONB Partnership) for a walk around the remarkably well-preserved but little known
Roman fort of Whitley Castle. We will focus on the fort, but will also discuss the development of the local historic landscape from the end of the Ice Age through to the present day. (Photo at English Heritage-Whitley Castle)

This event will possibly be repeated in 2009. A short book about the site by Alastair Robertson is available (price £3-50). Alastair is someone with a general interest, “but without specialist knowledge”. Just like me…..
Michael.

Sorry, my links hav'nt worked for some unknown reason. :(