This impressive view was taken from the roof of the Great Hall at Hampton Court Palace and shows the early stages of archaeological excavations conducted during 2008 by OA in advance of the resurfacing of Base Court. The image clearly shows a network of brick-built drainage tunnels constructed by Sir Christopher Wren at the turn of the 18th century.

Other discoveries included the earliest building at the Palace from the time when the site belonged to the Knights Hospitallers. The large timber-framed building, probably constructed in the 14th century, showed evidence of having burnt to the ground - perhaps by Edward III in 1353 after which he admitted blame for a large fire and paid for the necessary rebuilding works. The ambitious scheme and archaeological excavations, the largest to take place at the Palace, were entirely funded by conservation and heritage charity Historic Royal Palaces. The courtyard has been re-opened to the public and forms a splendid entrance to the Palace, where special events are taking place throughout 2009 to celebrate the 500th anniversary of Henry VIII’s accession. For more information please visit the Hampton Court website.