The excavation of Gourock Burn homestead, West Kilbride, North Ayrshire

Abstract

Intermittent excavation at Gourock Burn homestead, between 1961 and 1980, revealed the presence of two substantial roundhouses which had served as living and working accommodation during one period of occupation, from the second half of 1st century until mid 2nd century AD. An attempt at reconstruction followed immediately but was not completed. Both roundhouses were of similar structural design with entrance passageways. Finds illustrated a wide range of domestic and craft activities suggesting that the inhabitants had enjoyed a considerable status, with trading relations with the Roman occupying power.