The first ever archaeological investigation at Dinas Bran was conducted by CPAT in August 2021 when four hand-dug trial trenches were undertaken internally within the eastern end of the southern gatehouse, and externally at its western end and northern side. The work was to inform planned consolidation by Denbighshire County Council’s Our Picturesque Landscape team, of the exposed gatehouse walls, by assessing the condition of the lower parts which have been buried for many years.
Results
Within the gatehouse at least 1m of debris had built up during the 18th – 20th centuries, with earlier deposits remaining unexcavated. Along the external entrance corridor accumulated stone fragments and debris was excavated to a depth of c.600 – 800mm, with a basal deposit interpreted as a medieval trampled surface. One sherd of medieval pot was recovered. A ledge/kerb was discovered projecting from the gatehouse wall, with a portcullis slot in it near the east end, and a fine masonry carved pillar base at the western end. The report is awaiting a second phase of work in 2022.
