Car Dyke

Car Dyke is an ancient man-made waterway located in Cambridgeshire, England. It is considered a significant heritage site due to its historical and archaeological importance. Spanning over 70 miles, Car Dyke was constructed during the Roman period, possibly around the 1st century AD, and is believed to have served as a drainage channel, transport route, and defensive fortification.

The waterway was engineered with a unique design, featuring a flat-bottomed channel with sloping sides and an average width of 50 feet. It is believed to have connected the rivers Witham and Cam, forming part of the larger Fens water management system. Car Dyke also intersected several other Roman roads, including Ermine Street, which further highlights its strategic significance.

Today, Car Dyke remains visible as an earthwork in various locations throughout Cambridgeshire, although it has suffered from natural decay and human interference over time. Its historical importance has led to efforts to preserve and protect the site. In some areas, the waterway has been incorporated into modern drainage systems, while in others, it serves as a local landmark and recreational feature.

Car Dyke provides valuable insights into the engineering capabilities and agricultural practices of the Roman Empire. It also offers a glimpse into the region's historical landscape and the significant role played by water management in the development of the Fens. As a heritage site, Car Dyke attracts historians, archaeologists, and visitors interested in exploring ancient Roman infrastructure and the cultural heritage of Cambridgeshire.