Monument record EYE 111 - Hartismere Hospital Evaluation, Eye

An initial phase of evaluation trenching was carried out at Hartismere Hospital, Eye, Suffolk, to the south of the existing buildings and within the garden area. Twelve trenches were excavated, of which three were disturbed, two were blank and the rest contained features. Another phase of evaluation is required after the demolition of four additional buildings. A phase of later medieval/post-medieval quarrying and other activity was indicated by several large pits and a ditch, which mainly produced CBM. Earlier occupation was characterised by small pits, ditches and a gravel spread, which are thought to probably be Roman and/or Early Anglo-Saxon, but may be of later prehistoric date. Finds from these periods include prehistoric flint and Iron Age pottery, Early Anglo-Saxon pottery and a brooch, and Roman pottery. Small quantities of animal bone were also present. The archaeological levels to the west of the three disturbed trenches were generally well preserved, often below several layers of imported or redeposited topsoil. It has been recommended that the area of the main building and potentially any areas of landscaping be excavated prior to development on the site (S1).