During the latest archaeological investigations at the Home of Rolls-Royce in Goodwood, experts from Oxford Archaeology unearthed a remarkable Roman-era well constructed from recycled timbers. This discovery, made during the detailed examination of the site for Rolls-Royce’s new landmark extension, offers a rare glimpse into the ingenuity of Roman construction practices beyond the major urban centres of London, York, and Carlisle.
The well, standing seven tiers high and built from 28 timbers, included eight pieces that showed clear signs of previous use. Mortices, tenons, and chamfered edges indicate that these timbers were once part of other structures, most likely sill beams and posts, before being repurposed to line the well. The practice of recycling materials, far from being a modern innovation, was evidently standard for Roman builders, and its survival in Goodwood is a testament to their resourcefulness and craftsmanship.
The timbers were located at the base of the well, permanently waterlogged, with bracing extending to ground level. Specialists are now analysing the wood through dendrochronology to determine the year the trees were felled and to understand the tools used to shape them. This process may even reveal the forms of the original trees and provide insight into local woodland management during Roman Britain.
Goodwood lies on the outskirts of what was once Noviomagus Reginorum, a settlement established by the Romans in the mid-1st century and inhabited until the early 5th century. The name is believed to mean ‘new market’ in Latin, with ‘Reginorum’ referencing the local Celtic tribe allied with Rome. Beyond the well, the dig has uncovered evidence of human activity stretching back to the Neolithic period, including tools, pottery, and possible signs of ancient metal-working. These findings suggest that Rolls-Royce is continuing a long-standing tradition of craftsmanship and innovation in this part of southern England.
Throughout the planning and excavation process, Rolls-Royce has prioritised community engagement and transparency. Artefacts from the dig were shared with local residents during a Neighbours Information Evening and will ultimately be housed at Chichester’s Novium Museum, just three miles from the Home of Rolls-Royce. This ensures that the local community can explore and celebrate the extraordinary history beneath their feet, spanning more than six millennia.
Andrew Ball, Head of Corporate Relations at Rolls-Royce Motor Cars, remarked, “Working with the experts from Oxford Archaeology to uncover the history of our Goodwood-based site has been both fascinating and illuminating. Finds like this remind us that recycling is not a modern invention – it is a legacy of the ancient past, and one we are proud to continue here at Rolls-Royce Motor Cars.”
