What question did this study set out to answer?

To conduct a geophysical survey and identify archaeological anomalies at Isley Woodhouse.

May 16, 2026Open Access

Geophysical Survey at Isley Woodhouse

Key Points

To conduct a geophysical survey and identify archaeological anomalies at Isley Woodhouse.
Survey conducted over 314 hectares using SenSYS MX V3 cart system and Bartington Grad601 magnetic gradiometers.
Data collected at 0.25m intervals in a grid pattern and processed using DLMGPS, MAGNETO, and bespoke software.
Readings analyzed to identify agricultural features and potential archaeological responses.
Identified agricultural anomalies including former field boundaries and medieval ridge and furrow cultivation.
Recorded archaeological patterns suggestive of prehistoric and Roman activity, with high potential in certain areas.
Magnetic disturbances also noted, corresponding with nearby military activities and disturbances from infrastructure.

Abstract

Most of the survey was carried out using an eight channel SenSYS MX V3 cart system containing eight FGM650 sensors. Readings are taken every 20MHz (between 0.05 and 0.1m). Data were recorded onto a device, using a Carlson GNSS Smart antenna, for centimetre accuracy. These readings were stored in the memory of the instrument and downloaded for processing and interpretation. DLMGPS and MAGNETO software, alongside bespoke in-house software was used to process and present the data. Fields 46-48 were conducted using Bartington Grad601 magnetic gradiometers. These were employed taking readings at 0.25m intervals on zig-zag traverses 1.0m apart within 30m by 30m grids, so that 3600 readings were recorded in each grid. These readings were stored in the memory of the instrument and later downloaded to computer for processing and interpretation. Bespoke in-house software was used to process and present the data. A geophysical (magnetometer) survey was undertaken on approximately 314 hectares of land located to the south of East Midlands Airport and between Diseworth and Isley Walton, Leicestershire. The majority of the anomalies recorded are agricultural including former field boundaries, medieval/post-medieval ridge and furrow cultivation, modern ploughing and land drains. Archaeological and possible archaeological responses have been recorded within the Site. These comprise rectilinear enclosures, linear ditches and trends, possibly indicative of prehistoric or Roman activity. Uncertain anomalies recorded within the data may also have an anthropogenic origin. Magnetic disturbance in the northeast of the Site corresponds with military camps associated with RAF Castle Donnington. Other disturbance within the dataset can be attributed to adjacent tracks and metal fencing within field boundaries and also 'green manuring' in one of the fields. Former ponds and service pipes have also been recorded. Geological responses seen within the dataset reflect either former water courses, the topography of the site, or discrete pockets of natural variations. Based on the geophysical survey, the archaeological potential of this Site is deemed to be high where there are areas of activity and low elsewhere.

Geophysical Survey at Isley Woodhouse

Key Points

Abstract

Cite This Study