History

In 1995 the Poulton Project started with an interest in developing a multi-period archaeological landscape investigation in the Chester hinterland. The hope was to find a settlement that was archaeologically rich over several periods, and set in a landscape accessible to investigation. The chapel site at Poulton more than fulfilled these needs. The history and origin of the chapel were scarcely known, yet it had a close connection with the last Cistercian Abbey of Poulton. Although the Abbey was removed in the 13th century, the Cistercians continued to dominate and shape the landscape around Poulton until dissolution in 1534. In addition to the medieval archaeology, an initial evaluation in 1995 revealed unexpected evidence for Roman and prehistoric occupation. It has since been confirmed that at least two Roman buildings exist, one of which is very substantial, producing numerous brooches, coins etc. Establishment of the nature of this occupation and of possible continuity to the medieval period remains a main research objective at the site.