SNN110577 - Early to Middle Saxon iron smelting furnaces at the Kitchen Garden, Fineshade Abbey, Northamptonshire

A series of archaeological investigations within the former kitchen garden at the site of Fineshade Abbey, Northamptonshire, in 1998, resulted in the excavation of a group of iron smelting furnaces and other features, including hearths and ditches. Associated finds were sparse, but a single calibrated radiocarbon date of Cal AD 560-690 suggests an early to middle Saxon date. Roman tile present in the furnaces and other features is thought to be residual. While the hearths and other features are also likely to relate to ironworking, there was insufficient evidence to suggest specific functions. The results support recent research which suggests that the Rockingham Forest region was an important iron production centre in the Saxon period.