Monument record IPS 497 - Holywells Park, Moated Enclosure, Ipswich, (IAS 9002).

Please read our .

Summary

Archaeological evaluation and monitoring of the moat at Holywells Park revealed see details for results.

Location

Grid reference Centred TM 17551 43564 (126m by 174m)
Map sheet TM14SE
Civil Parish IPSWICH, IPSWICH, SUFFOLK

Map

Type and Period (3)

Full Description

2006: A trenched evaluation was proposed within this moated enclosure in advance of new play equipment being installed in the area. Long believed to be the site of the Ipswich residence of the bishops of Norwich, excavation showed that no substantial structure stood within the moat and that settlement within the moated area itself was unlikely. Documentary research by Anthony Breen has indicated that the bishops of Norwich were very infrequent visitors to Ipswich and that a large residence was doubtful. Rather than thinking in terms of a bishop's palace, it is more probable that the bishop's interests were served by his representative or bailiff who had a more modest dwelling. A quantity of pottery, tile and oyster shell of late medieval to early post-medieval date indicates nearby settlement during this period. Glazed and imported pottery and early rooftile might suggest that a high status dwelling could be within the vicinity. Local schools, youth organisations and community groups were invited to site and helped with the recovery of finds from selected layers and from the spoil heaps (S1).
2007: Archaeological monitoring of desilting of the moat at Holywells Park revealed four bored elm tree trunks used as pipes totalling 12m, possibly for an ornimental fountain (S2).
See also IPS 063.

[letter, number] refers to mentions in the Suffolk Council Archaeological Service Ipswich Documentary Card index, (S6).
A366
Lords moat, 1651

Sources/Archives (4)

  • <S1> Unpublished document: Meredith, J.. 2006. Archaeological Evaluation Report, Holywells Prak, Moated site, Ipswich, IPS 497.
  • <S2> Unpublished document: Sommers M. 2007. Monitoring report. Ipswich: Holywells Park - Moated Enclosure (IPS 497), Ipswich.
  • <S3> Index: Ipswich Museum. IPSMG card. 1941.95.
  • <S4> Index: Suffolk County Council Archaeologcial Service. Ipswich Documentary Card index.

Finds (18)

Protected Status/Designation

  • None recorded

Related Monuments/Buildings (1)

Related Events/Activities (3)

Record last edited

Aug 1 2017 2:48PM

Comments and Feedback

Do you have any more information about this record? Please feel free to comment with information and photographs, or ask any questions, using the "Disqus" tool below. Comments are moderated, and we aim to respond/publish as soon as possible.