Roman Droitwich: Dodderhill Fort, Bays Meadow Villa, and Roadside Settlement

This colume covers three major sites in Roman Droitwich ( Salinae ). The full extent and character of the Neronian fort on Dodderhill are explained, and the remains of the large and spectacular villa at Bays Meadow are also revealed. Finds from the latter indicate a highly Romanised lifestyle, possibly with direct imperial connections, indicating that the salt production was being operated under state control. Occupation of the villa, however, was severely disrupted at the end of the 3rd century. A third site provides evidence for settlement alongside an adjacent Roman road, and was notable for producing rich deposits of charred grain.