More information : (NZ 26530519) Cowton Grange (confusingly sited at what is now named Halnaby Grange), a grange of Fountains Abbey mentioned in 1145-6, in Kirkby's Inquest (1284-5) and Nomina Villarum (1316) (1), was excavated by Platt (see illust). Occupation was shown from the 12th to late 17th century, although the grange was destroyed by Scottish raids in 1318 and 1322. After the dissolution it passed into lay ownership until circa 1750 and there was an amount of reconstruction and repair. However, the principal buildings were demolished circa 1600 and the site finally abandoned circa 1690. Surrounding the grange site are good surviving earthworks of the great enclosure of the court, dating from the first phase, circa 1145 to circa 1350. It seems unlikely however, that any systematic fortification was ever attempted. (1-2)
The line of the surrounding enclosure, comprising ditch and bank, and the site of grange buildings clearly visible on air photographs. (3) |