Excavation

Date 19 March 2018 - 21 March 2018

Event ID 1085058

Category Recording

Type Excavation

Permalink http://canmore.org.uk/event/1085058

NO 00512 95303 A programme of building recording and

excavation of a series of test pits was undertaken, 19–21

March 2018, as part of a wider restoration project. The

building recording involved 3D scanning to produce a model

(by McCreadie 3D), followed by the production of phased

archaeological drawings, intended to aid the development of

the restoration scheme.

Following scheduled monument consent, four test pits

were hand excavated in the ground floor of the castle. The

concrete surface at the first floor level of the castle is failing,

causing water to leak through to the vaults beneath.

Test Pits 1 and 2 were excavated in the W Hall. Test Pit 1

revealed a considerable depth of rubble and the remains of

a lime mortared wall, running E/W parallel to the front wall

of the castle. Test Pit 2 abutted the fireplace and revealed the

base of the moulded fireplace and hearth slab, indicating

the original floor level. Test Pits 3 and 4 were excavated

in the E Hall. Test Pit 3 uncovered what may have been a

rough levelling deposit of stones with a clay patch, possibly

sealing the top of the vaults. Within Test Pit 4 a deposit was

uncovered which has been interpreted as the top of the vault

beneath.

The evaluation established that archaeological deposits

relating to the earlier phases of the castle survive beneath

the concrete floor. The depth of these deposits was relatively

consistent in the test pits, at 200–300mm below the surface

of the concrete. In order to protect the vaults below from

further water damage and to help to stabilize the castle, it

will be necessary to remove the current concrete surface and

relay a suitable surface. This will afford an opportunity to

record and better understand the earlier phases of the castle,

and this information could be used to inform any future

consolidation and renovations, including plans to improve

visitor access.

Archive: NRHE (intended)

Funder: Lachlan Trust

Jenni Morrison – Addyman Archaeology

(Source: DES, Volume 19)

OASIS ID: addymana1-312767