East of Avebury: tracing prehistoric activity and environmental change in the environs of Avebury henge (excavations at Rough Leaze 2007)

Abstract

The results of a programme of geophysical survey, test pitting and excavation at Rough Leaze, immediately to the east of the Avebury henge, are here described. Intended to examine evidence for settlement and other activities pre-dating or contemporary with the henge, the fieldwork revealed a moderate density scatter of mostly Neolithic flintwork, colluvial build-up against the henge bank, stake-holes, and a series of Neolithic tree-related features, one of which had been modified. Molluscan analysis indicates that activity here during the early and middle Neolithic took place within a woodland setting. Other evidence relating to the pre-henge settlement history and environment is reviewed.