Weald Country Park
Soaked in history – Unearthing Weald Hall’s forgotten bath
As part of our Designated Funds programme of heritage and archaeology activities across Kent and Essex, the Lower Thames Crossing team supported a community excavation at Weald Country Park in Brentwood, once home to the grand Tudor mansion, Weald Hall.
The excavation revealed a surprising discovery: a Georgian-era sunken stone bath, complete with steps and a seat. Another interesting find was a toothbrush made from bone or ivory. These objects offer a fascinating insight into the everyday lives of the people who lived on the estate over two hundred years ago. The discovery of the bath and toothbrush reveals a more personal side to the history of Weald Hall, helping paint a richer picture of life on the estate and connecting us more closely with the people who lived there.
Weald Hall was built in the 16th century and was home to the Tower family for generations. During the Second World War, the building was occupied by the military before being demolished following a fire in 1951. In 1953, Essex County Council purchased the estate, creating the much-loved country park that is there today.
"The project at Weald Hall is a great example allowing both schools and the public to engage, appreciate and enjoy the heritage on their doorstep."Dr. Steve Sherlock, Heritage Advisor, Lower Thames Crossing
The excavation was organised by Essex County Council’s Place Services team and delivered by Oxford Cotswold Archaeology, who trained 24 local volunteers aged between 17 and 78 in excavation skills. The volunteers ranged from students considering a career in archaeology, to retired people keen to explore local history, with some volunteers going on to pursue professional archaeology roles. Many said the project gave them their first real taste of uncovering the past, connecting them more closely with the area’s heritage.
With hundreds of finds ranging from bottles and plates to fragments of Medieval and Tudor pottery, each piece has been carefully recorded, analysed and preserved, which builds clearer picture of how life at Weald Hall changed through the centuries. Some artefacts will also go on display, giving local communities the chance to see the discoveries for themselves.
Dr. Steve Sherlock, Heritage Advisor, Lower Thames Crossing said: “The project at Weald Hall is a great example allowing both schools and the public to engage, appreciate and enjoy the heritage on their doorstep”.
Today, Weald Country Park is a Grade II listed, 520-acre country park, offering visitors a chance to enjoy its beautiful open spaces and discover the amazing stories of the past that still shape it today.
