NHER 64926 (Cropmark and Earthwork record) - Cropmarks of post medieval and undated field boundaries, enclosures and possible settlement

November 2021. Broads Hidden Heritage: Aerial Perspectives.
Post medieval and undated field boundaries, ditches and enclosures are visible as cropmarks on aerial photographs (S1). It is probable that more than one phase of activity is evident, with the latest elements corresponding with field boundaries depicted on 19th century maps, such as Strumpshaw Tithe Map (S2). The group includes at least one large rectilinear enclosure or field, and what appears to be an unusual elongated trapezoidal enclosure with a rounded end (at approximately TG 3457 0702). The latter is reminiscent of a Neolithic long barrow or mortuary enclosure but appears to be aligned with the rectilinear enclosure to its west. More closely spaced, overlapping ditches at the southern end of the field (at approximately TG 3458 0673) could relate to former settlement. They could even relate to a Roman villa, comparable with other examples in Norfolk, such as the double ditched enclosure at Mautby, approximately 4km to the east (NHER 21762). There are fragments of could be outer precinct boundaries. The larger enclosures or fields generally lack the double-ditched boundaries or trackways that characterise the extensive co-axial field systems of possible Iron Age and/or Roman date that are evident on the Broads uplands further to the east (see Albone et al 2007, S3). This suggests that they may belong to a different, probably later phase of activity. It is also likely that several phases of activity are represented.
S. Tremlett (Norfolk County Council, Historic Environment Service), 12 November 2021.