Monument record 7028 - Hollow Way in Kelsall

<1> Various, Written Communication to the HER, Morris M, 19/03/2012 (Written Communication). SCH3756.

This is a superb holloway. This type of feature is created where heavily used routeways meet a slope, and the breaking of the topsoil causes a cycle of erosion resulting in the typical vee-shaped trackway. Given the massive depth of the Kelsall holloway it can be assumed it was caused primarily by extensive stock movement such as packhorses and/or cattle.

Dating of such features is frequently problematic. There is good evidence that the Roman road lay to the north, with the holloway taking a more contoured, natural route. It may have been mainly created in the Medieval and Post-Medieval period. However, a much earlier origin in the prehistoric period, and its use in the Roman period perhaps as a more practical downhill route for supplying stock to the Roman fortress at Chester, cannot be discounted.

<2> Chester City Council, 2007, Kelsall Parish Landscape and Design Statement ( Supplementary Planning Document), 6.10 (Report). SCH6804.

The Hollow Way between Street House and Kelsall Hall is a substantial feature which has been largely neglected. It is believed to be one of the most extensive remaining early routes in Cheshire. Only a small section remains a public right of way.

<3> Various, Written Communication to the HER, Leah M, 16/03/2012 (Written Communication). SCH3756.

Early editions of the historic Ordnance Survey mapping (see 4) show a substantial hollow way and it is also described as the line of Watling Street, or the Roman Road to Manchester. Modern Ordnance Survey mapping suggests the course of the Roman Road lies further to the North.

<4> Ordnance Survey, 1871-1882, Ordnance Survey County Series (Epoch 1) 25 inch to 1 mile - Cheshire, SJ5168, 1874-1875 (Maps and Plans). SCH2462.