During an excavation in 2007 by Wessex Archaeology, 11 pits were found scattered across the east-facing lower slope. Each had charcoal-rich deposits sealed by re-deposited natural. They were thought to date to an early prehistoric date, possibly being of Neolithic date. The only artefacts recovered were flint blades and some flakes from two of the pits, one blade possibly being of Mesolithic or Early Neolithic date. Carbon dating of charcoal produced a Mesolithic date (7065-6767 cal BC). A cereal grain found in one pit was of a cultivated variety so therefore probably of Neolithic or later date. (1)

These excavations are collated and summarised in a January 2015 'Publication Report' by CgMs. RadioCarbon dating of cereal grains from one of the Bronze Age pits returned dates of 2460–2200 cal. BC and 2400–2140 cal. BC respectively. The report makes concluding interpretations of the different phases of occupation at the site but these are far too detailed to summarise here. See Source Ref for further information. (2)

<1> CgMs Consulting, 2009, Post-Excavation Assessment Report and Updated Project Design for Analysis and Publication: Hoo Road, Wainscott, Kent (Unpublished document). SKE16706.

<2> CgMs Consulting, 2015, Publication Text: Prehistoric and Romano-British Activity and Anglo-Saxon Settlement: Hoo Road, Wainscott, Kent (Unpublished document). SKE31283.