History
The history of the grounds of Manor House
date back to the Doomsday Book, second only to Stonehenge in terms
of archaeological significance in Wiltshire.
Castle Combe's own Sherwood...
Castle Wood stretches along the left of the first fairway
and green and to the right of the Hotel buggy path. Partly ancient
in origin it has links with the wildwood that once covered Britain
during the Norman ages. There is much evidence of the medieval
settlement within the woods, with banks, ditches and remains
of buildings - including that of an impressive rectangular
tower.
King of the Castle...
On top of the spur, within the wildwood, sits the remains of the
Castle. An ancient monument of outstanding interest, it is recorded
as being a well-preserved motte-and-bailey from the Norman period.
It is scheduled under the Ancient Monuments &
Archeological Area's Act, 1979. The Castle has never been
excavated, but finds include iron arrowheads, spurs, buckleheads
and the odd coin or two. (The picture is a digital image of the
interior of the motte-and-bailey highlighting the earthworks)
For the budding Tony Robinson's out there...
Other features of archaeological significance include:
- A circular stone wall deep underneath the North Western corner
of the driving range.
- Romano-British pottery fragments which were uncovered near the
Clubhouse.
Further details of these features can be
obtained from the Archaeological Department of the Wiltshire
Library and Museum Head Quarters, Trowbridge.