More information : [SJ 9396 8759] Moat [GT] (1)
Torkington Moat is 15 yards wide surrounding an earthwork which is
48 yards by 49 yards in extent. This area was cut across by Mr. Matthew Shaw c. 1860-70 and there were no foundations of buildings. (2)
A well preserved homestead moat which is still waterfilled.
Resurveyed at 1/2,500. (3)
SJ 940876. Moated site north-west of Broadoak Farm. Scheduled
(Gtr. Manchester No 25). (4)
SJ 9394 8759. The site includes a raised island measuring some 46m by
43m that is surrounded by a waterlogged moat varying between 8m and
20m wide and 1.6m deep to the water level. Access to the island is
by a modern wooden bridge situated at the mid-point of the SE arm
where the moat is at its narrowest.
The Torkington family were first mentioned in documents dating to
c.1200. A manor house existed in Torkington by 1350. Further
reference to a manor at Torkington is found in the Chester forestry
proceedings of 1363. This states that John de Legh cleared woodland
prior to constructing a manor house consisting of two chambers and a
kitchen surrounded by a moat. The house was abandoned around the
beginning of the 16th century. Torkington Hall was constructed on the
moated site during the early 17th century.
Limited excavation on the platform identified three phases of
activity, all involving timber structures. Artefacts found included
medieval pottery, 14th or 15th century roof tiles, and post-medieval
clay pipes pottery and nails. Scheduled RSM 13520. (5) |