Monument record 2882/2/7 - Post Medieval Formal Garden Earthworks

Earthwork: Non-destructive fieldwork. (Medieval ditches, possibly garden remains: original Morphed Aerial Archaeology Interpretation)

{1} A third garden, also possibly of medieval date, has been found at Collyweston, Northamptonshire. The remains, though much damaged, consist of two sets of low terraces, bounded by scarps. One group has evidence of internal sub-divisions, presumably flower beds. Documentary evidence shows that the garden was partly remodelled soon after 1486, but that perhaps it originated somewhat earlier, in 1453-5. The 'stone borders', which one John Steynesmore was paid 6d for constructing, were perhaps the edging to the flower beds which still survive. The site was abandoned in the mid C17th. Earthwork plan.

{3} To the west of the house (marked 'b' on the earthwork plan) are two rather degraded terraces up to 1.5m high and below them a set of smaller terraces together with a bank which is the remains of a stone wall. These appear to be parts of a formal garden.

<1> Taylor C., 1983, The Archaeology of Gardens, p.38-9 (unchecked) (Series). SNN41440.

<2> Northamptonshire SMR Collection of Aerial Photographs, Used with NMR & CUCAP collections (Photographs). SNN104822.

<3> Royal Commission on The Historical Monuments of England, 1975, An Inventory of The Historical Monuments in The County of Northampton, p.30-31 Site 8 (checked) (Series). SNN77379.

Record last edited

Aug 30 2013 11:51AM