This article explores the archaeology and ancient history of the Isle of Thanet, which lies in the extreme south-eastern corner of Britain. It once was an island separated from the rest of Britain by a sea channel (now the rivers Wantsum and Stour). It features extensive archaeological remains, and was said to have more Bronze…
This article continues from part 1. The Romans arrive Julius Caesar and the Romans are said to have landed on the southern shores of the Isle of Thanet in 54 and 55 BC. This arrival at Ebbsfleet has received much publicity recently, through the archaeological work undertaken by the University of Leicester – more on…
The Ordnance Survey maps of West Wales show a dashed line running from south to north, sometimes on the course of modern roads, sometimes over hills and moorland, sometimes raised on a causeway, sometimes disappearing from view. It is labelled as ‘Sarn Helen’, often with ‘ROMAN ROAD’ in bold lettering beside. But was this route,…
This article continues from Part 1 and explores some other Helen and Elen associations that could help to shed light on the meaning and origins of the ancient trackways known as ‘Sarn Helen’ – that is, if they don’t confuse matters even further! Sarn Helen above the Vale of Neath (Image © Alan Richards) The…
