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An Investigation into the Archaeological History of Tidgrove Warren Farm |
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There is considerable evidence that the downland above Kingsclere has been occupied and farmed for many ages.
From the early years of aerial photography it was noticed that there was a large anomoly visible at Tidgrove Warren Farm and the Kingsclere Heritage Association decided that they would like to undertake an investigation into the site with the permission of the occupier of the farm, Raleigh Place, and with the expertise of the Archaeology Department of Southampton University.
Thus in 2003 the Association together with pupils from local schools carried out a field walking excercise on the site and the University undertook a geophysical survey on various parts of the farm.
The Bronze Age
At one of the highest areas on the farm, there was evidence of barrows and grain storage pits. We did not investgate these until 2005 as it was decided in 2004 to carry out an investigation into the area of the farm showing Roman period activity.
The Romans
This site was investigated in 2004 and then again in 2005 as the site proved to be extensive. The land owner of the adjacent farm also gave permission for a geophysical survay to be carried out in an adjoining field so that the extent of the site could be determined.
The Medieval Period
It was thought for some considerable time that the anomoly shown on air photographs could be man made and had been linked, through preliminary research, into the construction by Hery II of a complex of buildings for him to use as a resting place on his journies to a from France, via Southampton. This area has been investigated from 2005 - 2007.
Next Step
It is hoped to continue the investigation of the Medieval site during September 2008, funds permitting.