Geophyssing Grimspound
Jowan Albon
- Region:
- Anywhere
- Notice Period:
- Regular (more than one month's notice)
- Type:
- Hobby
- Fee:
- Paid: My standard fee is £75 for an approx. one hour talk + time for a Q&A afterwards. As standard, I no
- Category:
- Humanities
- Updated:
- 27th September 2026
- Tagged:
- Archaeology | Prehistory | Devon | Dartmoor
Grimspound is one of Dartmoor’s most famous prehistoric sites — but how much do we really know about what lies beneath its surface? In this talk, I take you behind the scenes of my geophysical survey of Grimspound, exploring how techniques such as magnetometry and earth resistance can reveal features that aren’t visible to the naked eye. We’ll explore what the survey revealed about the settlement, including possible structures, unusual anomalies and some intriguing questions about how Grimspound was used. I’ll also look at the different theories surrounding the site — from everyday settlement and farming to ritual activity, trade and defence. Most importantly, I’ll explore what happens when we stop simply looking at the archaeology we can see and start asking what else might be hiding beneath our feet? A story of prehistoric Dartmoor, archaeological detective work, geophysics and a few unanswered questions along the way.
Views: 18 | Enquiries: 0About Jowan Albon
I’m an archaeologist, researcher and public speaker with a particular passion for the stories, mysteries and hidden landscapes of Devon and the South West.
I grew up travelling the world before settling in Devon at the age of 12. While my fascination with history began with ancient civilisations and castles, it was Devon’s moors, tors and ancient landscapes that really sparked my passion for archaeology. From taking part in Ten Tors to volunteering on excavations across Dartmoor, I quickly became fascinated by the stories hidden beneath our feet. I studied Archaeology and Heritage at the University of Leicester, carried out archaeological fieldwork in Cyprus and completed a geophysical survey of the prehistoric settlement at Grimspound for my dissertation. I later worked in commercial archaeology across Devon, Cornwall and Somerset, including excavations associated with the discovery of a Roman road at Sherford.
Today, I combine archaeological research, fieldwork and public engagement, exploring everything from prehistoric Dartmoor and the archaeology of Grimspound, to ancient landscapes, defensive sites, Devon’s myths and legends, and the fascinating stories hidden within historic place names and tithe maps.
I’m also the founder and Secretary of the Teignbridge Archaeological Society, where I’m passionate about encouraging more people to explore, understand and protect the archaeology of our region.
Through my talks and guided walks, I aim to make archaeology accessible, engaging and — above all — exciting.
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