Cr8ive Media
Drone Services
Specialists in drone-based imaging from structural inspections and construction surveys to heritage preservation and estate monitoring
CASE STUDY
Drone Survey Reveals Insights at Norton Priory Field
​
Norton Priory, located in Runcorn, Cheshire, is one of the most important and extensively excavated monastic sites in Europe. Originally founded in 1115 as an Augustinian priory and later elevated to an abbey in the 14th century, the site has revealed more than 12,000 artefacts through archaeological research. It offers a rare and detailed glimpse into medieval monastic life, featuring the well-preserved remains of the priory complex, a Georgian mansion, and an award-winning museum housing treasures such as the giant statue of Saint Christopher. Today, the site serves both as a heritage attraction and an active archaeological resource, with ongoing investigations into the wider landscape.
​
It was within this context that Cr8ive Media UK was commissioned by Norton Priory’s head archaeologist to carry out a detailed visual study of the adjacent events field. The aim was to explore the potential presence of historic structures or earlier activity linked to the priory or to even older nearby settlements.
​
The Solution
We deployed a high-resolution drone survey using oblique imagery techniques, capturing over 750 overlapping images of the entire field. From this dataset, we generated a highly accurate 3D photogrammetry model and a dense point cloud. While the 3D model offered valuable contextual visuals of the field and its surroundings, the true analytical strength came from the classified point cloud.
​
Through digital classification techniques, we separated out vegetation from the bare earth layer, effectively removing foliage from the scene and exposing the terrain beneath. This revealed an unencumbered view of subtle features that would otherwise remain hidden. We then generated a high-precision contour map with 0.1 metre intervals, sufficient to capture even minor changes in ground elevation that might suggest buried walls, ditches, or foundations.
​
​
​
The Result
Although no definitive evidence of lost buildings or structures was detected in this survey, the results provided meaningful direction for the next stage of exploration. The detailed surface model and classified point cloud allowed archaeologists to identify areas of interest and rule out zones unlikely to yield findings. This informed perspective means that any future excavation particularly the placement of sample trenches can now be planned with greater accuracy and efficiency.
​
Wider Benefits
This non-invasive survey has added an important layer to the understanding of the Norton Priory landscape. By digitally recording and analysing the field in such fine detail, we’ve enabled the archaeologists to make informed decisions without committing to costly or time-consuming groundworks. Discussions are now underway to conduct multispectral and infrared imaging of the same field, which could reveal signs of sub-surface activity not visible in standard RGB imagery. This step-by-step approach demonstrates how drone-based heritage documentation can be both cost-effective and scientifically valuable, offering a scalable method for investigating historic landscapes while preserving them.
This innovative technology provides Norton Priory with a detailed digital record of the events field, offering immediate insights while laying the groundwork for future research, excavation planning, and heritage preservation through accurate, cost-effective, and non-invasive archaeological analysis.
