SNN101353 - Archaeological Watching Brief At Fineshade Abbey, Northamptonshire May - June 2000

In May and June 2000, Northamptonshire Archaeology maintained an archaeological watching brief during the excavation of test pits and trenches as well as the removal of topsoil prior to the reinstatement of the original drive and the planting of a conifer hedge to the north of the stable block at Fineshade Abbey. Six short lengths of limestone walls were uncovered within the trenches, but there was no associated dating evidence. Two sections belonged to the same wall, orientated East-West, the remainder North-South. Only one possible yard surface may be medieval, dating to between the 13th and 15th centuries, suggesting by association that the walls are of a similar date and may thus be part of the Abbey. A demolition layer containing limestone rubble occurred over the majority of the site, probably relating to the dismantled buildings. Tiles and pottery recovered from this layer suggests that demolition occurred between 1550 and 1700.