This volume presents the findings from four archaeological excavations carried out by Archaeology South-East between 2002 and 2007, on sites located near the western limits of the downland landscapes in southeast England. Together, these sites offer evidence of occupation from the Bronze Age through to the Late Iron Age and Romano-British periods, with a particular emphasis on the Middle to Late Iron Age.

Situated on or near the lower chalk slopes of the western North and South Downs, the sites lie close to the Wessex region—an area well known for its Iron Age upland settlements and agricultural practices. Among them, the Hawks Hill House site stands out for its large pits, interpreted as grain-storage features, which closely parallel similar structures found in Wessex.

The analysis explores the potential ritual significance of post-use deposition in these pits, including links to feasting and ceremonial activity. The concluding discussion considers the broader implications of grain storage practices, their social and symbolic roles, and reflects on recent debates around the interpretation of ritual discard and alternative frameworks for understanding Iron Age lifeways.