Source/Archive record SCH3961 - Old Abbey Farm, Risley, near Warrington, Cheshire: Building Survey and Excavation at a Medieval Moated Site

Programme of evaluation undertaken between June 1994 and May 1995 for a medieval moated site, Old Abbey Farm, Risley, prior to the demolition of the farmhouse and incorporation of the site into the UK Waste Management Limited's Risley landfill operation. Work comprised documentary research, field survey, building recording, controlled demolition of the farmhouse and barn (both Grade II listed buildings), excavation of the farmhouse footings, the moated platform, causeway, moat, and selected areas outwith the moat. The findings suggest that the moated platform was probably constructed during the thirteenth century and was accessed by a timber bridge , with a timber-framed open hall occupying the platform. The remains of the bridge (as well as a stone built replacement) were preserved in situ in waterlogged deposits. A developmental sequence has been established and comprised seven broad phases from the thirteenth to the twentieth century. These phases represent changes in form and function, from an open hall with an added cross wing, through to extensive remodelling and rebuilding in brick during the seventeenth century. Partial conversion for agricultural use, and construction of the barn, reflect the changing status of the occupants and indicate varying patterns of ownership, function, and tenure during the latter periods of occupation. Dendrochronological dating of structural timbers from the buildings and the bridge will be undertaken in conjunction with typological analysis of the structural timbers to help determine the form and status of the structures. Environmental samples taken from the moat will should facilitate a reconstruction of the local palaeoecology of the site.