I think I've got the most comprehensive research on Almondbury - www.brigantesnation.com look under vitrified forts. The only thing I've not been able to get is details of Mr Varley's dig which was published privately.

I've just thought of something;
Only three vitrified forts in England (I think).
All of them in Brigantia.
located in Sheffield, Huddersfield and Lancs.
Could they align with Orion?

Almondbury was definately a kings castle, very much lord of all I survey rather than lets have a fight. The fields surrounding it were probably well cultivated during Almondbury's hay day.