What question did this study set out to answer?

To investigate the structural failure of the south moat revetment wall at the Tower of London.

April 24, 2026Open Access

Watching Brief of the Excavation of a Trench to Investigate the Failure of the South Moat Revetment Wall Opposite the Byward Tower, Tower of London

Key Points

To investigate the structural failure of the south moat revetment wall at the Tower of London.
Opened an investigative trench behind the revetment wall
Documented signs of structural failure and earlier construction phases
Observed and recorded structural elements, including a brick arch
Noted progressive structural failure of the revetment wall
Identified earlier phases and historical attempts at consolidation
Discovered a brick arch from the 18th century indicating past repairs

Abstract

Archaeological monitoring and recording. The south moat revetment wall opposite the Byward Tower had been showing progressively worsening signs of structural failure. An investigative trench was opened behind the revetment. Probable earlier phase(s) of the wharf revetment wall and associated activity were observed. The arch of a brick wall, of c. 18th century date, represented an attempt to consolidate a pre-existing stone revetment.

Watching Brief of the Excavation of a Trench to Investigate the Failure of the South Moat Revetment Wall Opposite the Byward Tower, Tower of London

Key Points

Abstract

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