SNN110685 - Upton Lodge, Upton, Northamptonshire: Archaeological evaluation 2013

An archaeological evaluation consisting of trial trenching was undertaken by CFA Archaeology Ltd at Upton Lodge, Northampton. This work followed on from a geophysical survey which identified anomalies interpreted as relating to possible or probable prehistoric or Romano-British settlement and agricultural activity as well as possible ditches, cultivation furrows and other features from later periods. Three enclosures, a surrounding field system and possible pit alignments, all dating from the late Iron Age or early Romano-British period were recorded. Analysis of the pottery suggested the peak of the activity on the site was immediately post-conquest, although there was some evidence that suggested the site was still in use for a short period into the mid 2nd century. The pottery was all domestic, probably indicating nearby settlement. A small amount of flint artefacts were recovered, which although likely to be residual in context, nevertheless indicated earlier prehistoric activity in the vicinity. Archaeological remains were recorded in areas identified by the geophysics as ‘magnetic disturbance’ and the trenching also showed that deposits of colluvium and buried soils had masked archaeological features from the geophysical survey. Other features identified by the geophysical survey were not present or were seen to be variations in the complex natural geology of the site. Four sets of human remains were recorded; an inhumation and cremation in Area I, an inhumation within an enclosure ditch in Area K and a further possible cremation in Area U. Although they were recorded at the point of discovery, they were not excavated and were left in situ. A small amount of Saxon pottery was recovered which was broadly 5th to 9th century in date. A possible ‘Grubenhaus’ was also identified in Area N. Other features included relict trackways and a possible as yet undated enclosure in Area R as well as ephemeral features such as relict cultivation furrows and possible trackways. Areas F, G, and S were devoid of archaeological features. Parts of areas Q and R had been previously disturbed which may have limited the survival of archaeological remains had they existed.