Cawthorn Camps

Cawthorn Camps is one of the archaeological treasures of the North York Moors. One evening nearly 2,000 years ago, a detachment of Roman troops halted here and built a temporary fort. Amazingly, its defensive banks and ditches remain largely intact.

Between AD 90 and AD 130 the Romans built three forts in all at Cawthorn. In each case their surrounding earthworks are remarkably well preserved. Standing amongst them, it's not hard to imagine the bustle of the soldiers going about their duties - fetching water, chopping wood, setting off on patrol or practicing their combat skills - and the smoke from their fires drifting between the leather tents.

Today Cawthorn Camps is owned and cared for by the North York Moors National Park Authority. There is a mile-long waymarked trail around the camps which takes about 45 minutes.