Volunteers uncover Iron Age settlement in Deepdale Valley

A rare Iron Age settlement has been revealed in Deepdale Valley, part of the Lake District National Park, thanks to the dedicated work of 25 volunteers led by the Lake District National Park Authority.

Known as Deepdale Bridge Settlement, the site features several hut circles and small enclosures surrounded by a rubble bank, indicating where ancient communities lived, cooked, and kept livestock.

The excavation, supported by landowners Jimmy and Chris Brown, Eden Heritage, and the Lake District National Park Authority, is significant due to the rarity of native enclosed settlements being archaeologically investigated in the district.

Marnie Calvert, Graduate Historic Environment Assistant, noted the volunteers' enthusiasm in uncovering this key evidence of late prehistoric life in the park.

Settlement Revealed

Radiocarbon dating of charcoal found within the soil indicates the roundhouse was occupied between 76 and 216 AD, and the enclosure bank was constructed between 40 BC and 118 AD, showing continuous occupation from the late Iron Age through to the Roman period.

Digging one trench uncovered a timber doorway, internal dividers, and a cobbled yard outside likely used to keep animals.

Continued Investigation

Volunteers are set to continue their efforts with a 2026 excavation at Lanthwaite Green near Crummock Water. Martin Railton will discuss findings at the Lake District National Park Authority's Archaeology Conference on 14th November 2026.