ENN111210 - Althorp Estate, 2023 (Test pit)

The archaeological trial pits were targeted onto Area 1, over proposed Feature B which is close to due to the Harlestone cropmark complex. The archaeological trial pit survey demonstrated a lack of archaeological remains in this location. An earthwork condition survey was carried out on a possible moated feature of unknown date was highlighted within the Heritage Statement where a possible medieval date was noted. However, the earliest evidence available is the depiction of the course of the Brampton Brook, following the northern course of the moat, on 1885 OS mapping. There was some evidence of erosion of the grass sward by horses but on the whole there was little in the way of erosion. The interior was free of tree growth with shrubs and remnant hedgerow confined to the exterior of the feature. The geoarchaeological window samples recorded a similar sequence to that seen along the Brampton Branch at Lamport and Cottesbrook. The current channel is fairly steep-sided and deep but with only a shallow stream. Information from OASIS online form.