Elginhaugh

Elginhaugh Roman Fort stands in Midlothian, Scotland, one kilometre west of Dalkeith. The 1st-century fort was built by the Romans and discovered in 1979 through aerial reconnaissance. Dr William Hanson led its full excavation between 1986 and 1987, revealing the most complete timber-built auxiliary fort in the Roman Empire. The site includes a large annexe where activities changed rapidly over a short period. Evidence shows horses and soldiers shared stable-barracks, unlike standard plans. This suggests the fort housed a mixed cavalry unit rather than a single regiment. The fort guarded a key crossing on Dere Street, a vital Roman road running north-south. It was occupied between about AD 79 and 87, likely during Agricola’s campaigns to secure Roman control in Scotland. A coin hoard found in the headquarters building dates construction to no earlier than AD 77-78. After the garrison left, the site became a livestock collection point, with cobbled floors and new wells dug. Artefacts include locally made pottery and evidence of hand-held artillery used by the garrison. Visitors see the excavated remains of the fort and annexe, including the headquarters building where the coin hoard was found. The site offers clear views of the surrounding landscape, including the nearby river crossing once controlled by the Romans. Environmental studies from the dig reveal details of local food supplies and conditions. The fort’s layout shows how Roman forces adapted to local needs. The remains stand as a rare example of a fully uncovered early Roman fort in Britain.