EDO5642 - Geotechnical test pitsThe New Inn, 14 Long Street, Cerne Abbas; observations and recording

Terrain Archaeology was commissioned by JC & RH Palmer to make observations during the digging of geotechnical test pits within the range of outhouses and the courtyard and garden to the rear of the inn. Twelve test pits were dig:Test Pits 1-7 within the outhouse range, Test Pits 8-10 in the courtyard, Test Pit 11 in the kennel area within the footprint of the proposed extension, and Test Pit 12 in the garden. No original floor surfaces survived within the outhouses, but a later rough stone paving survived in one room. The remains of a flint cobbled courtyard was partially exposed. A feature interpreted as a probable medieval burgage boundary ditch, pre-dating the construction of the outhouses, was observed. The works were undertaken in part fulfilment of a grant of planning permission (Application No: 1/D/10/001942) which required the implementation of a programme of archaeological work in accordance with a written scheme of investigation approved by the planning authority.