Excavations on the Site of the Early Norman Castle at Gloucester, 1983–84

Abstract

INVESTIGATIONS AT 28–32 Commercial Road, Gloucester, provide the first excavated evidence for the first Norman castle. Parts of the bailey surface and motte ditch were explored. Gullies, pits and post-holes attributable to the occupation and use of the castle were found in the bailey; one pit contained the remains of a tabula board with bone inlay and a complete set of counters. Sealed beneath the bailey surface were the remains of a substantial late Roman building which, according to a radiocarbon date, continued in use through the 5th century. This late occupation of the building was associated with the formation of a ‘dark soil'outside its walls. The ruins of the building intermittently provided the setting for a range of activities between the 6th century and the 11th, at one stage being the site of a farrier's workshop.