Monument record 7392/1 - Possible medieval hunting lodge, Ferrels Wood

Earthwork Enclosure with Possible Internal Buildings

{1} NGR centre c.SP93889450, within the northern part of the wood. Following information received from Mr Conant, Gill Johnston and Burl Bellamy had earlier in the week confirmed the presence of a substantial, well preserved and previously unrecorded earthwork enclosure. Further inspection identified this as rectangular in form, with straight sides and approximately 70m east to west by 56m north to south (ditch centre to ditch centre), and the remains of a low inner bank. A break in the bank approximately midway along the eastern side of the enclosure might represent an entrance. The enclosing ditch was c.8m wide (3m to outer edge and 5m to top of inner bank) and at least 1.5m deep. Concentrations of limestone observed along parts of the inner bank and elsewhere within the enclosure may suggest the former presence of buildings. One fragment of stone roof slate (with peg hole) found protruding from outer face of bank by the south-east corner of the enclosure. No other finds. Enclosure remains undated. Poor visibility prevented verification as to presence of any adjoining or nearby features though depressions visible on a woodland ride approximately 17m to the south of the enclosure, hinted at the possible presence of two ditches running south from the enclosure.

{2} NGR centre c.SP93889450; limited scrub and bramble clearance has taken place since initial inspection in November.

{3} Most notable has been the recording of a large and very well preserved rectangular earthwork enclosure within Ferrels Wood. This contains the remains of stone building(s) and has been provisionally identified as a large medieval hunting lodge, though documentary confirmation of this is still being sought. Potentially of national importance. Plan of earthwork: Figure 3.
Recommends that the enclosure be preserved within an open area managed to prevent damage from trees, scrub and other growth.

<1> Cadman G., 1999, Bulwick Woods:Notes On Rapid Reconnaissance Inspection, (checked) (Notes). SNN100577.

<2> Cadman G., 2000, Bulwick Woods - Notes On Rapid Reconnaissance Inspection, Part 2, (checked) (Notes). SNN100578.

<3> Kennedy A.; Cadman G., 2000, Bulwick Estates Forest Plan: SMR Assessment Report, (checked) (Report). SNN100912.

Record last edited

Dec 3 2024 9:56AM