Henley Archaeological and Historical Group

ADRIAN Cox, an archaeologist with the National Trust, spoke to members of the Henley Archaeological and Historical Group about the recent work to restore the White Horse of Uffington, in association with members of the local community, and on his excavations this summer at Greys Court.

These excavations took place on the Oval Lawn, formerly a courtyard, at the property. The locations of the 4m by 4m trenches were guided by parch marks in the dry summer and by a geophysical survey.

The excavations, in partnership with South Oxfordshire Archaeology Group, discovered a brick wall which formed the southern boundary of the courtyard.

Fragments of glazed floor tiles were found, suggesting a high status building nearby. The foundations of a 16th century wall and a brick-lined drain were uncovered as well as the 13th/14th century curtain (defensive) wall which lined up with the two towers.

After the dig, the trenches were restored to their original condition, to the satisfaction of the property’s gardener. The presence of the archaeologists increased the number of visitors, much to the gratification of the property manager.

It is hoped that the trust will allow further investigations, notably of the raised area north of the Oval Lawn on which surveys suggest that a substantial building stood.

On December 10, the group held a Christmas party, at which a number of members spoke about historical objects they owned.

The next meeting of the group will take place on Tuesday, January 6 at the Chantry House at 7.30pm when Tim Healey will speak to us on the subject of Drovers’ Roads in Oxfordshire and beyond.

Anthony Lynch