Archaeologists at Powis Castle uncovered pieces of pottery dating back to the earliest days of the Welshpool landmark as part of an archaeology festival at the site.

On Saturday, July 15, the National Trust welcomed the public to their gardens for an annual celebration of archaeology, where groups hosted stalls and led family friendly activities such as crafts, storytelling, and demonstrations.

Prior to the festival, an archaeological dig on the thirteenth century castle’s Great Lawn was undertaken by Clwyd-Powys Archaeological Trust, who hoped to learn more about he Dutch Water Garden that was once on the site.

Ian Grant, Senior Archaeologist from CPAT said: “The results of the geophysical survey were excellent, revealing buried fountain bases, traces of a formal garden below the Great Lawn, and a curious structure atop the original footprint of the cascade.

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“We revealed extensive evidence of Georgian and later Victorian building demolition material, which had been used to re-landscape and terrace the gardens after the cascade had been removed (or buried) in the late 18th century.

“We had some interesting discoveries along the way, including a piece of medieval lead- glazed pottery. This fragment was discovered last week and is of great interest to us as it is at least 800 years old and dating from the earliest origins of Powis Castle.

“We now have a better understanding of how later generations have altered the garden landscape in and around the cascade. Any excavations planned for the future will certainly benefit from the results, and it is quite possible that there are still remains of the cascade waiting to be unearthed.”

The weekend was formally opened by Neil Redfern, Executive Director and Company Secretary, Council for British Archaeology and Ingrid Samuel, Placemaking and Heritage Director, National Trust.

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Commenting on the festival, Sarah Johnson, Visitor Experience and Operations Manager, National Trust Powis Castle said: “It was wonderful to welcome visitors to the national launch event in collaboration with the Council for British Archaeology. There was something for everyone to enjoy with a variety of information stands, talks, games, and creative activities.

“Working with the local community and other organisations is very important to us, and we’ve already had some wonderful feedback about the event. We hope it’s inspired visitors to come back and learn more about Powis Castle and Garden in the future”.

National Trust Cymru's Powis Castle and Garden says it will continue to run an engaging programme of events throughout the summer, including the upcoming ‘Summer of Play’, which launches on Saturday, July 22.