Archaeologists have unearthed what is believed to be the ruins of one of Britain's oldest homes during construction work in a field north-west of Edinburgh.

The remains, which are thought to be more than 10,000 years old, were found during archaeological excavation works in preparation for building the Forth Replacement Crossing, a new bridge across the Firth of Forth, the Independent reported.

The remains of the house include a large oval pit, nearly seven metres in length, a handful of holes, and more than 1,000 flint artefacts, thought to be from old tools and arrowheads.

It has been dated to the Mesolithic period, around 10,252 years ago.

"The radiocarbon dates that have been taken from this site show it to be the oldest of its type found in Scotland," the Independent quoted Rod McCullagh, a senior archaeologist at Historic Scotland, as saying.

Several internal fireplace hearths, and large quantities of charred hazelnut shells were also identified, suggesting whoever lived there roasted the nuts for food.