This summer, visitors to National Trust Greys Court will have the opportunity to witness archaeology in action as experts return to continue uncovering the site’s rich and layered history. The excavation, running from 19th–27th July, is part of the Festival of Archaeology and invites the public to engage with the latest discoveries and techniques used to explore the past.

Building on last year’s findings, archaeologists from the National Trust and the South Oxfordshire Archaeology Group (SOAG) will investigate a new area of the Oval Lawn, seeking evidence of a historic inter-court range that may have once connected buildings on the west and east sides of the medieval courtyard.

Last year’s excavation revealed part of a 16th-century courtyard wall and, even more remarkably, a section of a 13th- or 14th-century defensive ‘curtain’ wall. These discoveries shed light on how the site evolved—from a fortified medieval manor to a more formal Tudor residence. The curtain wall, likely enclosing the entire property, served both defensive and symbolic purposes, reflecting the status of its aristocratic owners.

Fragments of pottery, roof tile, brick, animal bone, shell, clay pipe, and iron nails spanning from the 15th to the 19th centuries were also uncovered. These finds offer glimpses into the lives of those who lived and worked at Greys Court—builders, servants and residents—revealing how the courtyard was used for both formal and practical purposes, such as stabling and workshops.

To guide their investigations this year, archaeologists have used geophysical survey techniques to allow researchers to detect buried features without disturbing the ground. Resistivity measures how easily electrical currents pass through the soil, revealing differences caused by features like walls or ditches. Magnetometry detects variations in the Earth’s magnetic field caused by the presence of buried materials, such as bricks or iron objects. These techniques help create subsurface maps to guide targeted excavations.

Adrian Cox, National Trust archaeologist, said:

“This exciting new archaeological work at Greys Court is shedding new light on the history and development of this very special place, and we want to engage with as many visitors as possible during this summer’s excavation. Come along and see archaeology in action and hear about the latest discoveries.”

A Living History Experience

Visitors are encouraged to explore the site during the excavation period, speak with archaeologists, and learn about the evolving story of Greys Court.

Festival of Archaeology runs at Greys Court from 19-27 July. No booking is required, and the event is included with standard admission. Families, history enthusiasts, and curious minds of all ages are welcome.