NHER 50656 (Cropmark and Earthwork record) - The cropmarks of a possible causewayed ring ditch

October 2007. Norfolk NMP.
The cropmarks of a possible causewayed ring ditch, potentially the remains of a Bronze Age round barrow, or alternatively a medieval to post medieval post mill, are visible on aerial photographs to the northeast of Scotchwood Hills, Morton on the Hill (S1). Another possible ring ditch is located approximately 125m to the east (NHER 50655). The site is located towards the base of slope on the western side of the Wensum valley. A similarly positioned group of barrows are located approximately 625m to the northwest (NHER 45361).

The ring ditch is centred on TG 1222 1668 and measures 17m in diameter. The cropmark is quite indistinct and blurry, but would appear to consist of a penannular and interrupted ring, visible as three ditch segments (no corresponding ditch could definitely be identified to the south). An angular central pit would also possibly be present; although it is possible that this is a fortuitously placed natural feature. Although this site has been tentatively interpreted as the remains of Bronze Age round barrow, it is also possible that this causewayed ditch, surrounding a central and angular pit, is the remains of a medieval to post medieval post mill.
S. Massey (NMP), 22 October 2007.

November 2021-March 2022. Geophysical Survey.
Magnetometer survey of site on proposed route of Hornsea Project Three offshore wind farm onshore cable.
This survey revealed no evidence for surviving sub-surface remains associated with these cropmarks. Although some magnetic disturbance was noted at this location this was deemed to be of natural origin.
See NHER 66318 for further details.
P. Watkins (HES), 4 September 2023.

February-June 2022. Trial Trenching.
Evaluation of site on proposed route of Hornsea Project Three offshore wind farm onshore cable.
One of the trenches excavated in this field was positioned to coincide with these cropmarks. Although two ditches were recorded neither appears to correspond with the mapped cropmarks. One contained single sherds of Roman and post-medieval pottery. The central, discrete cropmark was found to coincide with a part of intercutting probable quarry pits, the later of which produced a single sherd of late post-medieval pottery.
Information from draft report. Final version awaited.
P. Watkins (HES), 4 September 2023.