SNN116625 - Observation, Investigation, Recording, Analysis and Publication (OIRAP): Lilford Hall, Lilford, Northamptonshire

In October 2023, Archaeology England was commissioned by Heritage Archaeology to carry out an Observation, Investigation, Recording, Analysis and Publication (OIRAP) at Lilford Estate, Lilford Hall, Lilford, Northamptonshire, PE8 5SG. The OIRAP was aimed at locating and recording any buried remains of archaeological interest revealed during the construction of a solar installation (particularly the cable route) on the Lilford Estate - Planning Application NE/22/01456/FUL. The OIRAP revealed the remains of a cobbled carriageway running from the hall to the Boat Houses. This evidence is documented in all OS 6-inch map editions from 1885 to 1952. Furthermore, the remains of sett paving were also revealed during the works, most likely corresponding to the track running parallel to the west wing of Lilford Hall. The cable trench runs adjacent to the game larder. The work revealed the foundations for the structure. While the footings appeared in line with the wall above, they were tentatively interpreted as the footings for a former structure. This is supported by the fact that, while historic maps documented a structure as far back as 1885, the materials and construction methods utilised for the game larder appeared to post-date the 19th centur