Geophysical Survey at Harlaxton, Lincolnshire

Data was collected using a cart carrying four paired Bartington magnetic sensors. Four sensors mounted 1m horizontally apart and very accurately aligned to nullify the effects of the earth's magnetic field. Readings relate to the difference in localised magnetic anomalies compared with the general magnetic background. Each data point is geographically referenced using an on-board Trimble RTK survey grade GPS system. Readings were taken at 0.125m centres along traverses 1.0m apart. Readings relate to the difference in localised magnetic anomalies compared with the general magnetic background. The magnetometer survey has recorded numerous magnetic responses that have been interpreted as being of archaeological interest. In the north-west of Area 1 a complex of anomalies may be evidence of activity possibly pre-dating the mapped features. The survey has also detected tentative evidence of a western section of a moat associated with Harlaxton Manor, along with garden features and a possible bowling green. A magnetically strong 'square' anomaly in Area 1 could have been caused by burning or may mark the location of a former building. Historic ridge and furrow cultivation has also been mapped across both survey areas. Discrete anomalies, trends and zones of increased response are visible across the site which have been categorised as uncertain; the majority have probably been caused by underlying geological variations or agricultural processes. Former field boundaries have been detected in both fields and two parallel boundaries in Area 1 flank a holloway visible on Tithe Maps. Relatively modern ploughing and a small pipe have also been marked.