Surrey Archaeological Society

Evaluation by T Malim of GAP encountered extensive remains of 19th century structures relating to gunpowder manufacture on the site, although little evidence for earlier activity was observed

Evaluation by J Pine of TVAS revealed evidence for 13th–15th century layers, with the possibility of a cut feature of medieval date also being discovered, although this could not be confirmed. Evidence of 17th–18th century pitting activity was also revealed, followed by 19th–20th century disturbance in a relatively deep sequence that suggested continuous activity on the site for some considerable time.

Topographic survey by D and A Graham of SyAS of a Bronze Age barrow previously investigated by Pitt-Rivers in 1877. The survey revealed clear evidence for the external bank and ditch, although previous suggestions of a related causeway were disproved. (Bulletin 382)

Radiocarbon dating of samples taken from four sections cut across boundary banks by J English of SyAS indicated a Middle Bronze Age date. (398)

Evaluation by D Eddisford of AOC revealed no finds or features of archaeological interest.

Excavation by J Pine of TVAS following evaluation in 2004. The earliest features recorded were a series of 13th–14th century pits containing an array of domestic rubbish. There appeared to be a hiatus in activity following this, with little further activity noted until a 17th century soil/rubbish horizon was revealed. Pitting then continued into the 18th and 19th centuries in a sequence of fairly typical urban backlands activity. A subsequent watching brief was undertaken during the underpinning of a boundary wall.

Evaluation by P Copeland of McCurdy & Co prior to redevelopment within the Scheduled area of Guildford Castle. Evidence for extensive post-medieval modification was revealed, although only residual medieval pottery indicated earlier activity, in an investigation that ceased at the formation levels of the proposed development. It was thought likely that earlier remains lay deeper in the sequence, but these were not revealed.

Evaluation in two phases by W Bedford of OA prior to commercial redevelopment. No finds or features of archaeological interest were revealed in phase 1 investigations. Phase 2 works have yet to be undertaken

Observations during building work by T Howe of SCC. Removal of part of the ground floor revealed the remains of what appeared to be a brick-built 18th century cellar, extending from the street frontage where an entrance was noted. The remains were preserved in situ, sealed beneath a replacement floor surface.

Investigative test pitting by C Currie of CKCA to obtain information about the construction of the lock behind the early 20th century concrete facing, in advance of restoration works by the NT. Documentary evidence suggested the concrete facing covered a timber structure, although it was thought that the record was incomplete and the sides of the lock were actually of brick. The test pits revealed substantial timber braces and no evidence for brick remains, indicating that the documentary sources were indeed correct.