Ascot d'Oilly Castle, Medieval motte-and-bailey castle in Ascott-under-Wychwood, England.
Ascot d'Oilly Castle is a motte-and-bailey fortification in Ascott-under-Wychwood featuring a central raised mound with a crescent-shaped outer enclosure. Broad ditches surround the earthworks, crossed by an earth causeway that once provided access to the inner fortified area.
The castle was built around 1129 by Roger d'Oilly, a Norman granted land by William the Conqueror following the invasion. It was abandoned and demolished shortly after 1175, marking the end of its occupation.
Archaeological excavations in 1946 revealed significant 12th-century artifacts, including shelly ware pottery that provides insights into medieval life.
The site is easy to explore on foot since the earthworks remain clearly visible above ground and the layout is straightforward to follow. It is best to check access beforehand, as the land may be privately owned and not always open to visitors.
Excavations conducted in 1946 uncovered medieval pottery and household objects that reveal details about daily life within the fortification. These archaeological discoveries provide a window into how residents actually lived during the castle's occupation period.
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