Roman occupation

The most famous Roman site in the Moors is the Cawthorn military complex, although there are known to be other sites such as a fort at Lease Rigg, 2 villas and 5 signal stations along the coast.

Recently work has been underway to re-interpret Cawthorn. Long considered a group of practise camps, it is now clear that the well-preserved earthwork remains include two forts, one with an annexe, together with a temporary camp built to a very odd plan. This site really comes to life as you walk around the Cawthorn Trail.

Although long assumed to be so, experts now consider that the well-known Wheeldale Road may not in fact date to the Roman period. It was perhaps built late in the occupation, at a time when normal standards were not applied and thus it appears ‘less Roman’ in character.

What you can see today ...
Cawthorn ‘Camps’ and Wheeldale Road are both open to the public. The best preserved Roman Signal Station can be viewed within the grounds of Scarborough Castle.

The booklet Walks around Goathland includes a pleasant 6 mile walk from Goathland to Wheeldale Road. Available from our Online Shop.