Monument record 3738/1/2 - Earthworks near to Berry Mount

{1} The accompanying report and plan describe earthworks within 75 metres north-west of Berry Mount (SP8517/6384). While some of these are Post Medieval it is suggested they should be considered in case they offer any clues as to the origins of Berry Mount eg. Fragments of the bailey suggested in the Victoria County History Vol II, p405, or Saxon activity relating to the Saxon church tower. The remains include a three sided embanked enclosure, partly within a ditch or moat and related linear banks. Observations are also made on the evidence for the base of Berry Mount on its south side.

{2} This report enlarges on that dated 21st/22nd August, by looking at specific evidence for a bailey north of Berry Mount, Earls Barton. The sketch accompanying is a simplified and modified version of its predecessor, and shows the east side of the bailey G1/G2 and possible west side H. Other modifications are the interpretation of D and west end of C (now C/D on sketch) as later features and evidence that ‘A’ features a round tower, and A/B may be a gatehouse.

{3} There are no visible remains of further entrenchments but the ground on the north is level so that a courtyard might easily have existed on that side.

<1> Welsh T.C., 2001, Earthworks, Bury Close, Earls Barton, SP85056391 to 8515392, (unchecked) (SMR Report Form). SNN101226.

<2> Welsh T.C., 2001, Further Evidence For A Bailey, Bury Close, Earls Barton, (unchecked) (SMR Report Form). SNN101228.

<3> Serjeantson R.M.; Ryland W. (Editors), 1906, The Victoria History of the Counties of England: Northamptonshire, p.405 (checked) (Series). SNN100369.

Record last edited

Dec 5 2014 2:09PM