Cawthorn Roman Camps

• A self-guided illustrated trail loops the earthworks, starting from the information sign in the far corner of the car park, near the parking machine.
• Interpretation panels along the way explain how the forts and camp were laid out and reimagine what stood here. Archaeologists link the site to two periods of Roman use, broadly around the late first and mid second centuries AD.
• A viewing platform with a bench gives the clearest overview of the earthwork ramparts and a broad, big-sky outlook across the surrounding country.
• The designated area also includes a stretch of medieval trackway known as the Portergate.
• Grazing goats are sometimes used on site to hold back bramble, bracken, and scrub that damage the remains.

The circuit is about 1 mile with roughly 140 feet of gentle climbing, usually 30 minutes to an hour at an easy pace, longer if you read everything. The main path has a hard, compacted surface and is fairly level, with a short undulating grass section that is the weak link after rain. Parking is within about 50 metres of the trail entrance, with designated accessible bays, and charges apply. The approach drive is slightly uneven in places. Bring sturdy footwear, water, and a windproof or waterproof layer, since the site is fully exposed. OS Explorer OL27 covers the area, and the grid reference is SE 783 894.

• No toilets, cafe, or visitor services on site. The nearest refreshments are at Cropton and Newton-upon-Rawcliffe.
• Parking is paid, which surprises some visitors at a site with no facilities.
• The grass section can become difficult when wet, and the access drive is bumpy.
• These are earthworks, not standing walls. Without the panels and the platform, some visitors find the shapes hard to read, so allow time to use both.
• There is no shelter anywhere on the loop, so poor weather is felt immediately.