Evaluation undertaken by Heritage Network in 2003 found evidence of a possible iron-working site. 5 linear features and one possible pit were found, one ditches containing iron slag fragments . No dating evidence was found, though a single sherd of C13 pottery was found nearby. (1)


From the excavation report: "Following the targeted archaeological evaluation of the route of the A21 Lamberhurst bypass, an open area excavation was undertaken by the Heritage Network on Spray Hill, to the west of Scotney Castle estate... An assessment of the data recovered in the excavation deomonstrates that the area was divided by ditches into rectangular plots during the 13th century AD. Three plots were identified within the width of the road corridor and within these there was limited evidence of occupation activity, consisting of gullies and pits. In the middle plot numerous fragments of iron working slag were recovered, some encapsuating furnace wall fabric. Other slags have, in cooling, preserved the shape of furnace elements and tap pits. Beyond the plot boundaries an oven was recorded which may have been used to roast the natural ironstone ore prior to smelting." (1)

The heritage network Ltd, 2004, A21 Lamberhurst Bypass , Spray Hill, Archaeological Assessment Report (Unpublished document). Ske13215.

<1> Heritage Network, 2003, A21 Lamberhurst By-Pass Lamberhurst,Kent : Phase 1: Archaeological Evaluation Report (Unpublished document). SKE17105.

<2> The heritage network Ltd, 2004, A21 Lamberhurst Bypass , Spray Hill, Archaeological Assessment Report (Unpublished document). SKE13215.