The evidence that proves the A1 is over 10,000 years old

Based on newly-discovered archaeological evidence, the A1 road, which connects London and Edinburgh, is 10,000 years old.

14:53 13 June 2014

A Mesolithic settlement has been unearthed by researchers alongside the A1 near Catterick in North Yorkshire. This evidence suggests that A1 road, which connects London and Edinburgh, predates estimates that claimed it was built by the Romans. 

 

The site, which has been compared to a modern-day service station, is believed to have been a kind of overnight shelter, used by people travelling north and south thousands of years ago. 

 

Researchers also discovered flint tools that are believed to have existed between 6000 and 8000 BC. 

 

Steve Sherlock, Archaeological Clark for the project, said: "This was a place that these people knew of - a place they could return to on many occasions, to stay sheltered overnight during their travels.

 

"It is telling us there is evidence for people using the route and moving through the area over periods of time.

 

"It is also adding to our knowledge of the early Mesolithic period, a time we don't know very much about and this is very interesting.

 

"We found a small structure which resembled a type of shelter where they were making the flint tools that were also present at the site."