A Reappraisal of the Twelfth-Century Building at Burton Agnes, East Yorkshire

Abstract

The twelfth-century building at Burton Agnes known as the ‘Manor House’ is reconsidered. Previously identified as a hall, the new survey suggests that the upper room was a grand chamber of unusually large dimensions. It was connected to an adjoining inner chamber and garderobe to the rear by a timber bridge, none of which survives. The ground floor was a very finely decorated undercroft, possibly serving as sleeping quarters for senior members of the household. Together with the nearby church which was rebuilt at the same period, it is argued that chamber block and now demolished hall were intended to make a statement about the status of the lord of Burton Agnes.