Soggy Braco and Ardoch Roman Fort

For thoughts of you who have not been to Ardoch Roman fort before now what have you been waiting for? This is one of the best Roman sites in the whole of Scotland and perhaps one of the countries best kept secrets. Having visited the town of Braco twice before starting work with Archaeology Scotland I was delighted to see the breath-taking Roman fort of Ardoch as one of our possible Adopt a Monuments and jumped at the chance Phil give me to help the group hear (he is not as keen on Romans as me but tell anyone). On Thursday the 6^th we had a meeting in Braco with the Ardoch Development Trust. The group’s aims fit in very well with Adopt a Monuments in that they wish to raise awareness of the amazing sites in the village.



Ardoch Roman fort on a previous visit showing the huge ramparts still visible.



Not only are they living next to one of the best preserved Roman Forts in Scotland they also have a lovely Iron Age promontory fort just on the other side of the village. Between these lie a surviving pack horse bridge and a rather fine old church tower. After some discussion it was decided we would try and help the group set up a Braco trail taking in many of these sites. We will also help them improve the interpretation at each one and the access, particularly to the Iron Age Fort. It should be said though that members of the group are already doing a grate job of keeping the paths here open and that they are very knowledgeable about their Roman fort. The only aspect of this trip which was not so fantastic was the weather which got rather wet on our wonder round, although apparently this is normal for Braco so remember your wellingtons.

The Free Church tower

The steps leading to the Iron Age Fort that we hope to help update, and (below) the path that will also get some attention.