Archaeologists found evidence of Roman homes and farming
Nestled within a Peterborough suburb is an ancient woodland where Roman homes once stood. In Cambridgeshire, there are many places that were once conquered by the Romans.
There was Durobrivae town, now known as Water Newton, former Roman roads and much more. In Bretton, a suburb home to over 12,500 people, is Grimeshaw Woods.
What may seem like a simple woodland today, was once where Roman homes were. Grimeshaw Woods is made up of 16.8 hectares and owned by Peterborough City Council. In the south of the woods is where archaeologists found evidence of Roman homes and farming activity.
Also at this end of the woods, they found evidence of the Iron Age. The area is known for its strong Iron Age links, with Flag Fen not far away.
Grimeshaw Woods is one of several ancient woods within Bretton that has survived development. As well as an extensive history the woodland is full of biodiversity.
Greenery within it includes nettle-leaved bellflowers, and it is also home to pipistrelle bats.
Many birds have been spotted in the woods. These include buzzards, red kits, wood pigeons, black birds, tree creepers, a green woodpecker, collared dove, pheasants and more. In January 2022, a pair of Tawny owls were seen landing there. Deer have also been seen in these woods.
The woodland is popular with local residents for walks. Local primary schools also visit the woodland for outings.
