More information : (TQ 33809891) The site of Elsynge Hall was excavated by the Enfield Archaeology Society in 1964. Findings include an external wall, presumed to be of the 15th century and a later structure with alterations and additions of circa 1540. These consist of a brick built drain and another wall. Traces of a moat were found but its extent is not yet known. (1)
Excavation in 1965 concentrated on the courtyard area and confirmed four structural phases for the site. Further excavation is planned for 1967 (none has been recorded by EAS from 1966-1975.) A gas pipeline trench has been cut through the remains of the Hall, about 100ft to the northeast of the 1963-66 excavation area. (2,3)
Elsings was a palatial house of Sir Thomas Lovell. He left it to his brother-in-law, Thomas Manners, who exchanged the house with the King for some monastic land in the Midlands in 1539.
Although repaired from 1542-3, on Edward VIs accession it was found to be ruinous. It was repaired, and many visits by Queen Elizabeth are recorded. From 1582, she no longer stayed at the house when visiting the chase, and in 1597 the house was reportedly in danger of collapse. In 1608 most of the house was carefully demolished, the materials being reused at Theobalds. The demolished part formed one side of a courtyard, andd the rest was restored in 1609-10. However, the house was finally demolished shortly after 1656. (4) |