In Summer 1955 The Canterbury Excavation Committee excavated two trenches on the sites of the current 1 and 5 Canterbury Lane. The trenches were coded CXXVIII CXX and CXXI. The trenches were dug from the surface and revealed deep stratification indicating intensive occupation in Roman Saxon and Medieval times.
Trench CXX (1 Canterbury Lane)
Saxon occupation was represented by part of a late Saxon structure and associated material. Later pits had badly disturbed the structure but some of its plan could be seen. This included a substantial chalk floor, partially refloored upon which was a large hearth. Several smaller hearths were also found. One large post-hole was also found. To the west of the floor was a layer of gravel, perhaps representing an outer yard, though undated. A shallow pit cut into the hut floor containing saxon and residual Roman pot sherds. The pit seemed to have been covered by a deposit of black soil containing burnt daub with deep wattle imprints perhaps indicating the building had eventually burnt down.

Frere, S. S and Stow, S., 1983, Excavations in the St. George's Street and Burgate Street Areas. (Monograph). SKE29967.