Roman and Medieval Carlisle: The Northern Lanes Volume Two: The medieval and post-medieval periods

The Lanes in Carlisle, a densely built-up area, were redeveloped in the mid-1970s, destroying many historic buildings. Archaeological and historical investigation was undertaken between 1978 and 1982, funded by Carlisle City Council, the Department of the Environment, and the Manpower Services Commission. The project was split into the northern and southern Lanes, with the results of the latter being published in 2000. This volume presents the evidence for post-Roman activity, including the creation of narrow burgage plots and the lanes themselves, which persisted until the modern redevelopment.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 338 pages
Publication date: 31 May 2022
Publisher: Oxford Archaeology North

Carlisle City Council undertook a redevelopment project in the mid-1970s, focusing on the Lanes area, a densely built-up region in the northeastern corner of the city's historic core. The area was characterized by narrow 'vennels' and was crossed by several roads. The construction of the Lanes shopping center resulted in the demolition of most of the adjacent buildings, including many of historical and architectural significance. Prior archaeological work had revealed complex Roman and medieval deposits on the site, which would be destroyed by the development. Consequently, a comprehensive archaeological and historical investigation was initiated, funded by Carlisle City Council, the Department of the Environment (now Historic England), and the Manpower Services Commission. The project was completed between 1978 and 1982. Historic England also funded the post-excavation analysis and the publication of the results. The Lanes project remains one of the largest and most significant archaeological projects ever undertaken in northern England. It was divided into the northern and southern Lanes, with the results of the latter being published in 2000. However, the publication only included a summary of the standing-building survey. This volume, which accompanies the 2019 publication of the Roman remains at the northern site, presents the evidence for post-Roman activity. The site appears to have been abandoned by the fifth century, with layers of 'dark earth' accumulating over the latest Roman levels. Several decades after Carlisle was re-established by William II, narrow burgage plots were created, extending from Scotch Street to the recently constructed city wall. These plots were intensively occupied and yielded a wealth of evidence for the everyday lives of the inhabitants. Around the mid-thirteenth century, the lanes themselves were created between Scotch Street and the city wall. The lanes were used for various purposes, including housing, commerce, and religious activities. The excavation revealed a range of structures, including timber buildings, stone buildings, and evidence of industrial activity. The findings from the Lanes project have significantly contributed to our understanding of the history of Carlisle and the surrounding region. The project has also highlighted the importance of preserving and interpreting historic sites for future generations.

Dimension: 297 x 210 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781907686382