SNN116054 - Althorp Estate, Northamptonshire: Window sample, earthwork condition survey and archaeological trial pit survey

This report presents the results of a window sample, earthwork condition and archaeological trial pit survey carried out by York Archaeology at the Althorp Estate, Northamptonshire between 31/7/23 and 4/8/23. The fieldwork was commissioned by the Environment Agency on behalf of the Althorp Estate in advance of proposed works comprising the creation of wetland features including; floodplain lowering to create shallow pools, embankment removal, bed raising within the existing channel and reconnection of relict channels. The archaeological trial pits were targeted onto Area 1, over proposed Feature B which is in close proximity to the Harlestone cropmark complex. The archaeological trial pit survey demonstrated a lack of archaeological remains in this location. An earthwork condition survey was carried out on a possible moated feature of unknown date was highlighted within the Heritage Statement where a possible medieval date was noted. However, the earliest evidence available is the depiction of the course of the Brampton Brook, following the northern course of the moat, on 1885 OS mapping. There was some evidence of erosion of the grass sward by horses but on the whole, there was little in the way of erosion. The interior was free of tree growth with shrubs and remnant hedgerow confined to the exterior of the feature. The geoarchaeological window samples along the Brampton Brook recorded a similar sequence to that seen along the Brampton Branch at Lamport and Cottesbrook. The current channel is fairly steep-sided and deep but with only a shallow stream now in evidence. The alluvial sequence was mainly minerogenic and highly oxidised, with only five locations recording organic deposits. This suggests localised consistent waterlogging and the main areas of the floodplain have a low potential to preserve extensive deposits with palaeoenvironmental potential.