SNN113423 - Apethorpe Palace, Archaeological Observations during Renovations

Observations during works to provide modern services within and around the palace, along with the removal of intrusive and inappropriate modern sub-division confirmed structural and contextual chronologies. Within the Gatehouse Tower Chamber a previously un-recorded archway was revealed and fragmentary elements of a lost decorative plaster ceiling were uncovered from a below-ground context. Importantly, the extent of modern destruction has been recorded, identifying areas where future installations can be safely considered if, or when, they may be required. Restoration of previously destroyed interior schemes to known historic decorative and spatial layouts have restored the integrity of the building.