Whitehawk Camp, Brighton

Whitehawk Camp is a Neolithic causewayed enclosure situated in the city of Brighton, United Kingdom. This prehistoric site, estimated to date back to around 5,500 years ago, is an important archaeological landmark that offers a rare glimpse into the early human settlement and societal structures on the British Isles.

The enclosure consists of concentric rings of ditches and banks, typical of causewayed enclosures found across Europe, which were likely used for various purposes including ceremonies, trade, and possibly as a communal gathering space. These enclosures are so named because the ditches are crossed by causeways, giving the site its segmented appearance.

Excavations at Whitehawk Camp have uncovered a wealth of artifacts, including flint tools, pottery, and animal bones, which provide insight into the daily lives and diets of the Neolithic people who once inhabited the area. The site is also notable for its human remains, suggesting it played a role in burial practices of the time.

Despite being a significant historical site, Whitehawk Camp is not as widely recognized as other British prehistoric sites such as Stonehenge. However, it is a scheduled ancient monument, and efforts have been made to preserve its integrity for future generations to study and appreciate.

Located near the Brighton Racecourse on the outskirts of the modern city, Whitehawk Camp is accessible to the public, though there are no facilities on site. For visitors interested in the prehistory of the UK, Whitehawk Camp offers a unique opportunity to connect with the ancient landscape and ponder the lives of those who built and used this enclosure thousands of years ago.