Roman period native settlement

Digging around an Iron Age settlement in County Durham isn't everyone's idea of a day out, but if you're the sort who gets genuinely excited by post holes and pottery shards, this Roman period native site near Bishop Auckland will reward you properly. What you're looking at here is evidence of how people actually lived before the Romans arrived - roundhouses, field systems, the lot. The archaeology tells a story of settlement and survival that feels more real than any museum display.

The site itself is fairly low-key, which means no crowds and no artificial presentation. You'll need to do a bit of work to imagine what stood here two thousand years ago, but that's half the appeal. Walkers and history types will get far more from it than families with young kids, who'll find it a bit thin on visible remains and things to actually do.

Based in Bishop Auckland, you're well-placed for exploring the wider area. Leekworth Caravan Park sits just 5.6 miles away and makes a solid base if you're mixing archaeology with leisure time. Mickleton Mill is fractionally further at 6.0 miles and consistently rates well with caravanners.

Bring decent walking shoes. Allow an hour if you want to study the site properly - longer if you're photographing everything. It's free to visit, which is worth knowing when you're planning a no-spend afternoon. Best visited when the grass isn't waterlogged, so spring or early autumn beats winter hands down.