Excavations on the Leven, Loudoun Hill, Ayrshire, 1993

Abstract

Rescue excavations at Loudoun Hill Quarry revealed the remains of timber structures, defined as pits and postholes in the subsoil. A primary phase of activity was represented by two pits which are tentatively dated to the early Neolithic period by association with artefactual and botanical evidence. The second phase of occupation at the site was represented by the construction of a double palisaded enclosure. A third phase of activity is postulated by the construction of a second and larger double palisaded enclosure which contained internal structures. Phase 3 is dated by association with artefactual material to the Iron Age. The fourth phase of activity at the site was represented by an enclosure defined by a fence slot which overlay the phase 2 enclosure. The most remarkable small find was a pair of decorated bronze tweezers.