Peel Castle Hinterland

Peel was the Viking capital of Mann. St Patrick's Isle held the Norse fortress, cathedral, and Round Tower. Archaeological excavations found a rich Norse lady burial with necklace of glass and amber beads (now in Manx Museum). WHY DETECT HERE: The fields south and east of the castle were the Viking-era trading area — beach markets where Norse, Irish, and English traders exchanged goods. These flat agricultural fields have NEVER been systematically metal detected. Any ploughed field within 1km of the castle could contain Viking trade weights, silver hacksilver, coins, or brooches dropped during 300+ years of continuous Norse occupation (c.800-1265 AD). The harbour approach was the busiest landing point on the west coast.