Oxford Dendrochronology Laboratory

Marvelous Medieval - The Bull Inn, Redbourn


In 2018, we were called in to date The Bull Inn in Redborne, Hertfordshire. The work was commissioned by the Co-operative to help deliver their new store to replace a much smaller and older store across the road. During the project, investigations by ArchaeoDomus found Bull Inn to be some 200 years older than previously thought, and originated as a timber framed medieval open hall dating to circa 1400. Its wonderful smoke blackened roof and evidence of a large and impressive smoke louvre survive, despite much of the timber frame being replaced below in brick in the late-18th century; a smoke louvre raised a small area of the ridge to allow for smoke to escape from the open fire at ground floor.

Unfortunately, the earliest phase of the building failed to date. However, we were able to get a date of 1554/5 for the north half of the building along with the inserted floor and chimneys were inserted to the medieval hall. Shortly after this date, 1586, the inn was being run by Robert Finch, and by 1595 it had been taken over by his son, William. It was asserted in an undated manorial survey that the Finch family had been serving here ‘since ancient times’.

In the 17th century, a rear wing was added, likely replacing or sitting alongside an earlier range. Its ovolo mullioned window still survives, encased in brickwork and hidden from view.

The Inn underwent several alterations and additions in the coming centuries, but its early-15th century timber frame survives as testament to its medieval origins.

The recent work by Co-op has left the 15th century timber framing, and 16th-18th century additions untouched, which have been protected to ensure their continued survival. A comprehensive archaeological buildings record and watching brief was maintained by ArchaeoDomus throughout the construction programme.

 


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Posted by Admin at Wed, 12th February, 2025 - 20:25

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