A new pipeline to carry chemical from Grangemouth in Scotland to Stanlow in Cheshire runs down the west coast, passing through areas of particularly Roman interest. Excavation was carried out at four sites: Hadrian's Wall at Stanegate; the Roman cemetery at Low Borrowbridge; an early medieval settlement at Fremington; and a medieval farmstead at Powsons. Shell's funding also gave the chance for a more detailed study of the Lune gorge, an important area now being eroded by road buildings. The techniques of this kind of archaeological assessment, the bread and butter of many units are also discussed.