Exciting Research to Take Place at Bolingbroke Castle Thanks to Funding from the Castle Studies Trust:

Heritage Lincolnshire and Archaeological Project Services are delighted to announce a new research opportunity at Bolingbroke Castle, having secured funding from the Castle Studies Trust. The archaeological activities will further advance the understanding of one of England’s most important castles, and the birth place of Henry IV. The site is currently open to the public all year round and is managed by Heritage Lincolnshire on behalf of English Heritage.

Whilst much is known about the castle itself, this work will concentrate on helping to reveal the connections and mysteries of the surrounding areas, including Dewy Hill and the Rout Yard. Dewy Hill is currently thought to be the site of a fortified hall and pre-curser to the castle, whereas the Rout Yard is assumed to have been a site used for containing stray livestock. This fascinating work will help to guide our understanding, and may unfurl the mystery of these connections.

Archaeological activities are scheduled to take place from 29 May to 1 June, and will include the opportunity to work with the local community, promoting better understanding and engagement within the historic village of Old Bolingbroke. Visitors will have the opportunity to see and talk to the archaeologists whilst they work, and even have a go with some geophysical equipment. 

Paul Cope-Faulkner, Senior Project Manager of Archaeological Projects Services is delighted that the work will take place:

 “This will be an exciting and rare opportunity to examine the development of Bolingbroke, not only the castle and its surrounds but the origins of the village itself. What’s more, the work we are planning will have a strong emphasis on local community involvement, enabling them to contribute to this important research and the history of their neighbourhood”

 Castle Studies Trust Chair of Trustees Jeremy Cunnington says:

“Bolingbroke is a site of historical importance and while the remains of the existing castle have been researched, little is known about what preceded the existing castle or what else was there. The Trust is delighted to be able to fund further work on this important site and learn more about its hidden past.”

Listen here to a recent interview with Jeremy Cunnington on BBC Radio Lincolnshire, where he talks about the project.