SNN107215 - Archaeological Geophysical Survey at Chester Farm, Irchester, Northamptonshire

Northamptonshire County Council commissioned Northamptonshire Archaeology to conduct a geophysical survey on land around Chester Farm, Irchester, Northamptonshire. The purpose of the survey was to provide an enhanced understanding of the nature and extent of archaeological remains associated with Irchester Roman town in order to inform the future management of the site. Magnetometer survey of the walled town revealed a large square ditched enclosure, possibly of Iron Age date and pre-dating the town, which adds to the known Iron Age landscape of the area. Of the town itself, the enclosing wall was located along with the internal road arrangement and a gateway to the west and, possibly, the south. The major new contribution is that the survey has provided sufficient detail of the internal stone buildings to enable the likely function of several major building complexes to be determined; thus beginning the process of understanding the details of urban life within the town. An area to the east of the Roman town, not previously surveyed, produced evidence of enclosures, a droveway, features relating to Chester-on-the Water deserted village, two further Roman roads and a tramway leading to the easternmost field, which has been mostly quarried for ironstone.