Ep 4. Henham's Lost Mansions

In this episode of Time Team, the team travels to Henham in Essex to investigate the lost mansions of the Earls of Warwick. Henham was once home to two grand mansions, one of which was demolished in the 18th century, while the other has been lost to time. The team is joined by local archaeologists and historians who have been researching the site for years.

The team begins by investigating a large mound near the village green, which is believed to be the site of the lost mansion. The mound has never been excavated before, so the team is excited to see what they will find. Using a combination of ground-penetrating radar and excavation, the team is able to uncover evidence of a large building, possibly a chapel, that once stood on the site.

Meanwhile, metal detectorist Gary is exploring a nearby field in search of any artifacts that may give clues to the lost mansion. He uncovers an array of fascinating finds, including pottery and coins dating back to the 12th and 13th centuries. These artifacts suggest that the area around Henham was once a thriving hub of activity, and may have been home to a wealthy community.

As the team continues their investigation, they learn more about the history of the site and the people who once lived there. The Earls of Warwick were known for their lavish lifestyle, and it's clear that no expense was spared in the construction of their grand mansions. The team discovers that the second mansion, which was destroyed in the 18th century, was a magnificent example of Georgian architecture.

But as the investigation progresses, the team begins to uncover evidence of something darker lurking beneath the surface. Local historian Eric has uncovered records of a mysterious fire that destroyed the first mansion in the 17th century, killing several people. The team begins to wonder if this event had any connection to the subsequent disappearance of the second mansion, and whether there may be more to this story than meets the eye.

Overall, this episode of Time Team is a fascinating journey through history, exploring the lost mansions of Henham and the people who once lived there. Through a combination of excavation, metal detecting, and historical research, the team uncovers a wealth of evidence that sheds new light on this intriguing corner of Essex. Whether you're a history buff or simply curious about the past, this episode is not to be missed.