Prehistoric and Early Medieval Activity on Danby Rigg, North Yorkshire

Abstract

Excavation and survey at Danby Rigg, North Yorkshire, produced evidence of activity on the site ranging from the Early Bronze Age to the Viking period. Re-excavation of a ring-cairn confirmed the account of J.C. Atkinson and enabled early bronze age radiocarbon dates to be obtained, but produced no further finds. A summary account of excavations by the Scarborough Archaeological Society on further early bronze age monuments is given. Survey in the adjoining cairnfield demonstrated that the site does not contain a regular field system though stone clearance was an evident pre-occupation; the nature of the economic practices adopted is discussed. A section cut through the massive Triple Dykes at the south end of the site, hitherto assumed to be of bronze age date, produced radiocarbon dates of the Viking period.