Shropshire Hist Archaeol 77

Account of detailed topographical and geophysical surveys of the castle, undertaken as part of a programme of works relating to its management and interpretation. The report includes a review of the historical background, followed by a description of the surveys and a detailed archaeological interpretation ranging from the twelfth-century motte and bailey, via the thirteenth-century masonry castle, to alterations to the surrounding landscape during the sixteenth century and the castle's decay during the seventeenth through to nineteenth centuries. Includes a

Report on the results of a programme of archaeological fieldwork carried out in relation to a proposed housing development centred around `The Moat House', Eardington. The project began in 1999 with a desk-based assessment that indicated the possibility of well preserved archaeological remains located below the existing ground surface. Subsequently a programme of archaeological field evaluation, excavation and watching briefs was undertaken which confirmed the presence of well preserved archaeological features and deposits relating to the medieval moated site, particularly the bridge access onto the moat platform. Includes specialist reports on

Report on the detailed recording of New Hall, a sixteenth-century H-shaped hall house in Ape Dale, to the north of Wenlock Edge. The original plan and elevations and subsequent alterations are described, followed by detailed descriptions of the wall paintings in what were originally the Great Chamber and the Great Parlour. These depict a hunting scene; three human figures in Tudor dress plus fragments of other figures, some carrying musical instruments; a hare, part of a bird and what appears to be a monkey or ape-like creature; and an oval medallion with the initials F F and I I. Other features noted are the corn mill (demolished in the late 1950s); an ovolo-moulded window; and a garden path allegedly paved with stone slabs from the roof (not found). The report concludes with a discussion of tenurial history, dating and conclusions.

Discussion on possible locations for the castle described in Welsh chronicle sources as Castell Coch or Castell Hychoet/Hithoet, which was taken and destroyed in 1233 by Llywelyn ap Iorwerth, prince of Gwynedd.

A summary of archaeological fieldwork undertaken in Shropshire in 2001--2002, and reported to the Archaeology Service, Shropshire County Council; arranged in alphabetical order by town or parish.