SNN110583 - Astwell Park Farm, Astwell Road, Helmdon, Northamptonshire: Archaeological Investigation, 2016 Archaeological Investigation

An archaeological investigation was carried out by Souterrain during groundwork preparation for a new stable block and its adjoining yard at Astwell Park Farm, Helmdon, Northamptonshire. The investigation took place on the 9th and 10th of November 2016. The proposed site of the new stable block lay on the projected southeast/ northwest course of a medieval deer park boundary which probably comprised a ditch and bank. Ground reduction took place over an area of 376 sq. m. There was no evidence of the deer park boundary. Neither were there any features or artefacts earlier than 19th century date. It is surmised that the deer park boundary ditch is either buried beneath 20th century deposits just inside the north-eastern perimeter of the development footprint, or that its course approximates to the property boundary further to the northeast. Exposed within the reduced area were the brick footings of a range of 19th century farm outbuildings. The outbuildings, which are depicted on the first edition Ordnance Survey map of 1885, were demolished at sometime between 1980 and 2000. The land was subsequently landscaped into a garden. The areas of ground investigation were surveyed and photographed, and the depth of impact recorded.