Geophysical Survey at Land at Barn Hall, Wickford, Essex

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 magnetic responses which have been interpreted as being of archaeological interest. In Area 1 a cluster of pit-like responses and trends have been detected which could mark the location of a post-built structure of unknown date. Anomalies are visible in the south of Area 4 which correspond with former buildings, including the kiln, chimney, quarries and tramway associated with a 20th century brickworks. In Area 1 bands of concentric rings have been detected which have probably been caused by geological banding though it should be noted that the HER states that an Iron Age hillfort could be present based on past archaeological investigations in the vicinity. Parallel uncertain trends in Areas 3 and 4 could tentatively mark the location of a Roman road, but again, this interpretation is tentative at best. Other uncertain response are visible in the survey which are probably due to natural processes, agricultural practises or buried ferrous debris. The locations of former field boundaries, drains and three service pipes are also marked.