Doon Hill Geophysical Survey

Date 17 January 2019 - 19 January 2019

Event ID 1108426

Category Project

Type Project

Permalink http://canmore.org.uk/event/1108426

NT 68712 75550 A geophysical survey was carried out at Doon Hill (Canmore ID 57668). This survey forms part of a programme of research to increase the understanding of Doon Hill and its development. A combination of gradiometer (0.6ha), resistance (0.6ha) and ground penetrating radar (GPR) survey (0.08ha) was undertaken.

The gradiometer data has been significantly affected by the magnetic content of surface markers. However, several coherent positive anomalies have been noted which may be due to pit type features of archaeological interest. A few trends have also been recorded. However, interpretation is cautious given past excavation of the site.

Broad rectilinear high resistance responses surrounding the halls are thought to be associated with the past excavation trenches. A cluster of responses has been recorded along the northern limits of the survey area and coincide with a pronounced mound visible on the surface. However, there is no significant magnetic response associated with these anomalies, which one might perhaps expect if they were due to settlement. Additional discrete high resistance responses have been noted throughout the survey area. While these may be of archaeological interest, these would be indicative of stone filled features or structures, not soil in-filled cut features. While an archaeological origin cannot be dismissed for all of these anomalies, it likely that most are due to natural variations in the subsoil and / or past excavation and associated activity on the site.

A block of GPR survey was undertaken adjacent to the entrance of the palisade in the east of the site. A coherent cluster of anomalies has been recorded in the north of this area and while these may be of archaeological interest, the clear change in the level of response suggests they are simply due to past excavation. However, several coherent anomalies have been noted just to the north of the entrance of the palisade which may be of archaeological interest.

Archive: NRHE

Funder: Historic Environment Scotland

Dr Susan Ovenden - Rose Geophysical Consultants

(Source: DES Vol 20)

OASIS Id: cfaarcha1-435433