King's Parade, Cambridge: Archaeological Watching Brief

Abstract

From July 2002 to March 2003 an archaeological watching brief was undertaken at numbers 13-22 King’s Parade, Cambridge. The work was carried out during the large-scale refurbishment of the existing buildings, installation of services, and redevelopment of the rear yard areas. Working closely together with the contractors Bluestone, exposures of archaeological interest were made available for record prior to destruction or shielding. Cellaring and recent services have disturbed a significant proportion of earlier archaeology, however where intact, the results demonstrate a complex and deep sequence of deposits dating from 12th century onwards. Large scale pitting, possibly for gravel extraction, smaller refuse pits, floors, yard surfaces and some structural traces were observed. The results complement the various investigations already carried out within the vicinity and further our understanding of urban development within this central area of Cambridge.