Marygate, Berwick-upon-Tweed, Northumberland
NT 9983 5296; Gavin Glover and Katherine Murphy; watching brief; February, October and December 2004; MGB 04
An archaeological monitoring and recording exercise was conducted on groundworks relating to the excavation of a pipe trench for the provision of improved drainage along Marygate. The work was commissioned by Northumberland County Council. The watching brief was undertaken as a planning condition due to the fact that Marygate is located within the medieval core of Berwick, where the town market is believed to have been held since the 12th century. Although the investigations only covered a small area, significant archaeological remains were recorded.
Natural deposits, comprising boulder clay, were exposed only at the north-western end of the area of investigation. A sequence of levelling dumps, accumulation layers and ditches of medieval origin were encountered throughout the monitored area. Assemblages of 14th century pottery were recovered, along with faunal remains resulting from primary butchery waste, fish processing, household/domestic rubbish and craft activities. The ditches were interpreted as medieval boundaries or drainage features, possibly demarcating properties fronting onto Marygate.
The foundation for a sandstone wall was recorded in the central portion of the trench. This may represent part of a small building or possible a boundary wall. The foundation was sealed by a layer of demolition material. Bricks recovered from this deposit were dated to the late 18th or early 19th century.
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