Wilmington Manor, Boughton Aluph

Description

The remains of a homestead moat are located in fields to the north of Park Barn Farm. The moat is 250m square, about 2m deep and about 10-13m wide and was once considered one of the finest examples of a homestead moat in Kent. The majority of the site was extensively damaged by bulldozing in 1974/5. Following this a rescue recording operation was undertaken by the Kent Archaeological Rescue Unit They found evidence of a bridge and three other buildings as well as a dupondius of Marcus Aurelius. Most of the features recorded at the site were dated to the 13th and 16th centuries although very few finds were noted. The moat was originally designated as a scheduled ancient monument in 1962, but was descheduled in August 1990. (Kent HER)

About a mile and a half south of the parish church is this typical example of a simple homestead moat, of which a plan is given. In works of this class the earth dug to form the moat, or fosse, was thrown inwards and spread, thus raising the enclosed space above the level of the surrounding land and securing a dry, well-drained site. Access was originally afforded by a drawbridge or removable platform. (VCH)

Comments

Whilst the loss of this scheduled moated site is a travesty the description of it as fortified by Philp seems rather loose. Other than the moat there doesn't seem to be little evidence of 'fortifications'. A wall, at least 55cm thick, along one arm of the moat is described as a possible 'if taken to any reasonable height' curtain wall. It was more generally described as a 'homestead moat' which, however unsatisfactory a term that is, gives a better idea of its status and form.