Archaeologists Mystified by Unearthed Surprise: 25 Enigmatic, Expansive Pits Found Across London Countryside

Archaeologists have made an intriguing discovery near London – more than 24 large prehistoric pits dating back 8,500 to 7,700 years ago, marking a significant prehistoric site. These pits, found at Linmere in Bedfordshire, offer valuable insight into the Middle Stone Age, a period that remains largely shrouded in mystery when it comes to life in Britain.

The pits, which measure up to 5m wide and 1.85m deep, were unearthed during separate excavations by the Museum of London Archaeology (MOLA) and Albion Archaeology. Radiocarbon dating indicates that they were likely dug during the late Mesolithic period, approximately 9,000 – 6,000 years ago.

These round pits with steep sides and flared bottoms suggest that Stone Age hunter-gatherers put great effort into their construction. Furthermore, the pits are arranged in multiple straight lines spanning up to 500m, clustered around former stream channels.

“The Linmere Mesolithic pits are an exciting discovery, providing a significant addition to our knowledge. While similar large pits created by hunter-gatherers have been found elsewhere in Britain, including at Stonehenge, the sheer number and extensive coverage of the Linmere pits is striking,” commented Professor Joshua Pollard from Southampton University.

Researchers note that very few Mesolithic sites of this scale have been found in the UK, as evidence of human existence during this period is often scarce, consisting mainly of flint tools and occasional animal remains.

During the Mesolithic period, ice sheets retreated and sea levels rose, leading to a significant transformation in the UK’s landscape and isolating Britain from mainland Europe.

While similar pits have been discovered in other parts of Britain and France, they have been found in smaller numbers. Stonehenge itself contains comparable pits, but only five have been dated to the Mesolithic period.

The purpose behind the construction of these numerous pits at Linmere remains uncertain. Animal remains found within the pits, including wild species such as aurochs, marten, deer, and boar, suggest possible uses in hunting or food storage.

However, researchers find it unlikely based on the shape and size of the pits that these were their primary functions. The effort involved in digging the pits and their proximity to water sources suggest a potential ritual or ceremonial significance.

Currently, researchers are investigating whether the pits align with any major celestial events, such as the solstice.

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