Unearthing Gorse Hall’s secrets during Heritage Week

To mark National Heritage Week (13–21 September), the Friends of Gorse Hall joined forces with the Tameside Archaeology Society for a special archaeological dig at the historic Gorse Hall site.

Armed with a resistivity meter – a tool that detects underground structures and changes in ground density – the team made exciting discoveries. They uncovered foundations of walls that were missed when the hall’s remains were first revealed back in 2000, shortly after volunteers began caring for the 35-acre site.

Exploratory trenches brought more of the past to light. Among the finds were sections of the dining room wall and evidence of window openings designed to allow natural light into the cellars below.

The discoveries have also raised fresh questions. Some parts of the foundations do not seem to match previous assumptions about the hall’s layout, sparking plans for further investigations. The groups hope to return in the winter months, when the demands of mowing and bramble clearing ease, to continue their exploration.

Before filling in the trenches for safety, members of Tameside Archaeology Society carefully measured and photographed the uncovered remains.

The Friends of Gorse Hall say they are eager to carry out more archaeology in the months ahead – but more helping hands are needed.

Anyone interested in joining the group or learning more can visit www.gorse-hall.co.uk for details about upcoming activities and guided walks, including the popular Nature Trail Sculptures. Alternatively, contact Alan on 07790 006345.

Cellar window uncovered in the dig.