Chalk valley and downland historic information

Almost entirely large scale planned enclosure, with some areas of parliamentary enclosure. Predominantly large scale enclosure of areas of downland in relatively recent times. Some enclosure of areas of former open fields adjacent to villages. Some notable country houses, but with relatively minimal impact in terms of ornamental landscaping.

Known archaeology

Extensive prehistoric field systems with associated enclosures and settlements, and large-scale boundaries such as Bokerley Dyke. In the eastern areas there is a concentration of prehistoric ritual and ceremonial features, for example the Dorset Cursus. Roman roads – no more here than any other type, but very visible here. For example, Ackling Dyke. There tends to be a concentration of known archaeology in these areas. This is partly because of the nature of successive agricultural activity in these areas tending to leave (until very recently) extensive areas of earthwork features undisturbed, and partly because the nature of the geology makes recognition of below-ground archaeology from aerial photographs very easy.