Test pit excavation as a method for reconstructing the development of currently occupied rural settlements: evidence from England

A review of the context and value of a new approach - archaeological test pit excavation within inhabited rural settlements of likely medieval date - to advancing knowledge and understanding of the long-term development of historical rural settlements where other techniques cannot be used due to their built-up nature. Includes discussion of previous research, details of methodology used and a series of analysed case studies from the author's work in eastern Englan