Monument record MDO4031 - Deserted medieval village of Ranston, Iwerne Courtney

Earthwork remains of a medieval settlement recorded in the Domesday Book. The remains cover about 6 acres. It is not known when the village was deserted, but it seems to have been unoccupied by the late seventeenth century. A square enclosure in the centre of the settlement has been interpreted as the possible site of a chapel. The record for this monument has been enhanced with support from Wessex Water.

The area of Ranston Park known as 'Chapel Hayes' is traditionally the site of a chapel dating from about the 14th century. No documentary evidence could be found, but the earthwork at ST 86371199 is similar to other chapel sites examined. <3> ST 86371199 The oval platform (published as Chapel (site of) (b)), within the central enclosure measures 21.0 m east to west by 11.0 m north to south and up to 0.6 m high. The surrounding enclosure is poorly defined and two further rectangular enclosures, whose purpose is unclear, can be distinguished to the west and north east, as well as faint scarps and hollows. No further building platforms were identified. The causeway which crosses the east part of the site is a former carriageway, now disused. Survey (1:2500) revised on AO Model and CR paper copy. <6>

Record last edited

Aug 24 2022 2:50PM