Archaeologists from South Oxfordshire are set to explore the grounds at a Henley country house.
As part of July’s Festival of Archaeology, the National Trust and South Oxfordshire Archaeology Group are planning to delve into Greys Court’s hidden archaeological treasures.
The known history of Greys Court stretches back over 900 years, with the earliest known record being the Domesday Book of 1086.
Built by the de Grey family, some original structures such as the Great Tower and adjacent wall fragments, which date back to between the 12th and 14th centuries, are still visible today.
The archaeologists will analyse a series of ‘parch-marks’ that appear on Greys Court’s oval lawn during particularly dry weather.
These markings suggest the presence of a courtyard wall and potentially a gatehouse. There were also other buildings on the site, which are now demolished.
The research will also incorporate data from a geophysical survey carried out on the lawn.
National Trust archaeologist Adrian Cox said: "We are hoping to add to our knowledge of the fascinating early history of Greys Court.
"We have a range of information already, including aerial photographs and the evidence of an 18th-century engraving depicting the site and showing its courtyard walls.
"We want to better understand the medieval and post-medieval layouts of the manor, so that we can give visitors a more accurate picture of how it looked in the past.
"We are aiming to give visitors close access to this archaeological research as it unfolds on site."
The project is supported by the National Trust in partnership with the Council for British Archaeology as part of the UK’s biggest annual celebration of archaeology.
Shannon Hogan, national archaeologist with the National Trust, said: "We're delighted to be working with Council for British Archaeology on the Festival of Archaeology at the places we care for.
"Archaeological experiences and activities offer opportunities for more people to find ways to connect with and learn about their local history and heritage.
"The Festival of Archaeology helps us deliver more for communities by uniting children and adults alike in a range of heritage activities and events.”
Archaeologists will be working at Greys Court from July 15-21, and will be speaking to visitors, explaining the work. There may also be opportunities for visitors to get involved.
It comes after archaeologists from the National Trust and Oxford Archaeology completed work to restore the head and neck profile of Britain’s oldest chalk figure, the Uffington White Horse, after grass had grown over the edges of the figure and topsoil had partially covered it.
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