Historic Environment

The Howardian Hills has a remarkable number of archaeological remains and historic features, testifying to the continuity of settlement and land use. Prehistoric burial mounds and earthworks, Roman settlements and roads, medieval castles and monasteries, historic villages, churches and churchyards, country houses and their extensive parklands, woodlands, fields, rural industries and many smaller features all contribute to the area's special character.

As well as the physical historic remains there are also the cultural traditions that have developed over the centuries. Values associated with a long history of religious activity and farming in the area are still strong, despite modern patterns of population movement and social change.

More detailed information on the historic environment of the AONB can be found in the Management Plan.

One of the JAC's objectives is to ensure that the diversity, quality and distinctiveness of the AONB's historic heritage is conserved and enhanced. One of the ways this can be achieved is through the AONB Project Fund which provides a flexible package of advice, grant aid or direct works, to assist owners with the repair and conservation of archaeological and historic features. Examples of project-funded work include the restoration of historic park walls at Wiganthorpe and Newburgh, restoration work at Howsham Mill and re-roofing of the threshing barn at Moor House Farm, Hovingham. A long-standing project to stabilise a rare 3-pot limekiln near Gilling has recently been completed, including tree removal and masonry repairs. The limekiln is not accessible to the public but to see a photographic record of this project click here. We hope, in future, to be able to run guided walks to the site.

Giving archaeological remains and historic features a higher profile helps people to understand their value and ensure that they are not damaged or destroyed. Interpreting both common features and specific sites, using leaflets, information boards or signs helps to raise awareness among both local people and visitors. The JAC has produced a series of walks leaflets on the history and habitats of some of the local villages in the AONB.

As part of the CAN DO partnership the 'Lime and Ice' project has revealed a fascinating array of information about the past history of the Yearsley Moor area. This project has involved volunteers in research both on the ground and using archive material. You can follow their progress on their blog or read more here.