Location

Head north along the A591 from Lake Bassenthwaite after about 3 miles; there is a right turn to Whirrigg. Continue through a wood up the slope and the fort is on the left at the end of the wood with Caer Mote hill 750 yards behind the fort. A mound can be seen but not immediately identified as a Roman fort, the site expends across the road.

Caermote History

The site is far from perfect but it has good views to the south. Caermote covers 2 periods the first probably dates from the first occupation of the area, probably before 75AD (see Bannerhasset).

The surprise is that is only 4 miles from Bannerhasset. which controlled the plains north of  Bassenthwaite. So why put a fort here. The first fort at Caermote covered nearly 4 acres nearly 400ft square, 20ft turf ramparts built on brushwood with a gravel code. Two gates have been identified.

It was big enough for a mixed infantry cavalry unit, of unknown origin.

There were 2 counterscarp ditches 8ft wide i.e. one side was almost vertical.

One of the  reasons for the invasion was mineral wealth, which was never adequately fulfilled. In a building outside the fort, lead ore was found. There was always lead in the Lake District and its surround. It is possible that the availability of lead may have influenced the fort’s location.

Caermote’s first fort was probably abandoned within a few years

Over forty years later a fortlet was built in the north west corner. It was 215ft by 235ft.defended by a bank and ditch. It covered just over an acre and housed 2 to 3 centuries. There appears to be an eastern gate.

There were very few fortlets found away from the coast in Cumbria, perhaps the lead mining was recommenced. There appears to be some building on top the first fort.

Caermote was excavated in 1902 and 1959.