East Learmouth Temporary Camp

Marching or Temporary Camp

The Roman camp at East Learmouth most likely dates to the late-1st century, possibly around 78/79AD during the campaigns of governor Agricola , or may possibly be dated to the tenure of governor Quintus Lollius Urbicus, c. A.D.140, but this later date is far less likely. Both dates are suppositions only, and unfortunately, cannot be proven. There are other camps to the west at Carham and to the north at Norham. Another camp lies in Borders Region just across the English/Scottish border at Wooden (NT7433).

The modern name dates back only to the 12th century where it first appeared in a document dated 1177AD in which it was spelled Leuremue; an Old English name meaning ‘mouth of the stream where rushes grow’, from the OE words laefer (= ‘rushes’) + mutha (= ‘mouth’).

This sub-rectanglar camp has gateways placed centrally in the shorter east and west sides, each protected by external tituli. There are two gaps in the north side, one placed approx 110 yards (100m) in from the west corner protected by an external traverse, and another equidistant from the east corner-angle but without external defences. Several gaps appear in the south side but none can be identified as gateways.

References for East Learmouth Camp

  • Roman Camps in England – The Field Archaeology by the R.C.H.M.E.;
  • The Oxford Dictionary of English Place-Names by A.D. Mills (Oxford 1991).

Map References for East Learmouth Camp

NGRef: NT8736 OSMap: LR74

OS National Grid Reference: NT870369
Dimensions: 1,017 x 1,460 ft (c.310 x 445 m)
Area: c.33½ acres (13.6 ha)

Roman Roads near East Learmouth Camp

None identified

Sites near East Learmouth Temporary Camp