Event/Activity EPM133 - Portsdown Peak Excavation by South Hampshire Archaeological Rescue Group

An excavation was carried out by the South Hampshire Archaeology Rescue Group (SHARG) in an area between Southwick Hill Crossroads and the Defence Research Agency site on Portsdown Hill in 1979. The aim of the fieldwork was to try and identify the source of a 'localised scatter of Romano-British pottery and building material' which had been found in plough soil on the site. The most significant feature (a circular pit) contained a number of post holes and finds dating from the Bronze Age period to the 20th century. The exact function of the site could not be identified. However, due to its position overlooking the sea, and its close proximity to the Roman fort at Portchester, a possible look-out post or signalling station was suggested.