Monument record 726/24 - Possible Roman Temple, east of Watling Street

Archaeological evaluation in 1991 identified part of a circular building predating the later 2nd century town defences. Interpreted as a possible temple or shrine.

{1, 2, 3} During evaluation ahead of proposed housing development a possible temple was identified. It was indicated by a short length of curved walling and associated stone floor that may have been part of a circular building predating the defences. The stone foundation was 70-80cm wide and internally was stone rubble, possibly part of the internal flooring. It was not, however, excavated. The author believes the section of wall foundation relates to a circular building, possibly a shrine with a timber ambulatory. In the absence of other evidence, however its interpretation remains open to question.

<1> Taylor J.; Foard G.; Laughton J.; Steadman S.; Ballinger J., 2002, Northamptonshire Extensive Urban Survey: Towcester, Section 3.5 (unchecked) (Report). SNN103132.

<2> JACKSON D.A., 1992, An Archaeological Evaluation Near The Masonic Lodge at Towcester, Northants, p.13 (checked) (Report). SNN54665.

<3> Woodfield C., 1992, The Defences of Towcester, Northamptonshire, p.25 (unchecked) (Article). SNN60159.

<4> BRANIGAN K., 1985, The Catuvellauni, p.89-91 (unchecked) (Book). SNN60083.

<5> Towcester & District Local History Society, 1995, Towcester: The Story of An English Country Town, p.5 (unchecked) (Book). SNN72341.

<6> Woodfield, C., 2007, Letter concerning excavations at the Masonic Lodge, (unchecked) (Letter). SNN106847.

<7> Cadman G, 1991, Masonic Hall Evaluation, Towcester, 1991 (Photographs). SNN111075.

Record last edited

Jan 12 2026 11:47AM