Archaeological investigations including an evaluation, excavation and watching brief carried out in 1999-2000 found evidence of an Early Iron Age ditch and hollow way, together with Neolithic and Bronze Age finds.

To the south-west of the site, a large feature with a flat base interpreted as a hollow way was identified. This feature was initially interpreted as a large chalk quarry or enclosure ditch, but was thought to have possible wheel ruts in its base. The feature measured over 40m in length and reached a depth of up to 70cm below the ground surface. The fill contained Neolithic/Bronze Age flint flakes and bone, alongside a small quantity of Early Iron Age pottery. These finds are thought to date this feature to the Early Iron Age period or earlier.

A linear ditch or feature was visible in the vicinity of the hollow way. This feature was aligned NW-SE and continued into the adjacent trench. These trenches also contained evidence for a wide chalk platform extending for around 6m in width. "The surface of the compressed chalk was also scored by a series of narrow, shallow irregular linear cuts, mostly aligned north-west to south-east" (from the original report, 1). It is unclear whether this feature is contemporary with the hollow way or a modern feature.

An undated pit, undated post-holes, a possible beam slot, possible graves, oval features, and a dog burial were also identified at the site. (1, 2)

<1> Canterbury Archaeological Trust, 1999, Former Spinning Wheel Hotel Site, Old Dover Road, Barham, Kent: report on archaeological evaluation. (Unpublished document). SKE54762.

<2> Canterbury Archaeological Trust, 2000, Former Spinning Wheel Hotel Site, Old Dover Road, Barham, Kent: Report on archaeological strip & map and watching brief (Unpublished document). SKE56286.