Medieval evidence found near Kingsclere

Archaeological excavations near the village reveal more of medieval hunting lodge

RECENT excavations at a medieval hunting lodge near

Kingsclere have unearthed evidence indicating that the ditches date back to the Middle Ages.

For the last four years, an archaeological field project has been run by the University of Southampton at Tidgrove Warren farm, between Kingsclere and Overton. It was initiated by members of the Kingsclere Heritage Association, investigating the prehistoric, Roman and medieval archaeology in the area.

According to Kristian Strutt, a geophysical researcher at the university's department of archaeology, the fieldwork has been carried out by staff, 25 students of the university and seven local volunteers and work this year has focused on a geophysical survey of Bronze Age, Iron Age and Roman settlement and field systems, with excavation of Iron Age and Romano-British ditches and associated features, such as agricultural terraces.

Excavation last month at the medieval hunting lodge, exposed the entrance and excavations of the aisled hall structure are still taking place.

Situated on chalk downland, the area forms part of extensive grassland, being returned back to its natural state by the landowner, Raleigh Place. Evidence has been found for human occupation from the Neolithic onwards. Bronze Age barrows (burial sites/mounds) have been located on the high ground north of the site.