Wallingford Castle Meadows

Heritage Conservation Management Plan 2014 – 2017

Prepared by Earth Trust on behalf of South Oxfordshire District Council

Artist’s impression of Wallingford Castle in the late 13th Century

Contents 1 Introduction ...... 2 2 Site Description ...... 2 2.1 Compartments ...... 3 3 Policy ...... 4 3.1 Policy Statement ...... 4 3.2 Other Policies Relevant to the Site...... 4 3.2.1 Ancient Monuments and Archaeological Areas Act 1979 ...... 4 3.2.2 Listed Buildings and Conservation Areas Act 1990 ...... 4 3.2.3 Trees ...... 5 3.2.4 The Equality Act 2010 ...... 5 3.3 Other Legal Agreements ...... 5 4 Cultural and Historical Background ...... 5 4.1 Historic Land Use ...... 5 4.2 Recent Land Use ...... 7 4.3 Landscape Character ...... 7 4.4 Victorian Parkland Plantings ...... 8 5 Management ...... 8 5.1 Management Structure ...... 8 5.2 Higher Level Stewardship Agreement ...... 9 6 Community Involvement ...... 9 6.1 Marketing ...... 9 6.2 Communications ...... 10 6.3 Interpretation ...... 10 6.3.1 Learning Objectives ...... 10 6.3.2 Behavioural Objectives ...... 11 6.3.3 Emotional Objectives ...... 11 6.4 Events...... 11 6.5 Education and Research ...... 12 7 Evaluation of Features of Interest ...... 12 7.1 Scheduled Ancient Monument ...... 12 7.2 Buried Archaeology ...... 13 7.3 Victorian Parkland Plantings ...... 13 7.4 Victorian Pond ...... 13 7.5 Interpretation and Education ...... 13 8 Management and Monitoring Objectives ...... 14 8.1 Scheduled Ancient Monument ...... 14 8.2 Buried Archaeology ...... 15 8.3 Victorian Parkland Plantings ...... 16 8.4 Victorian Pond ...... 17 8.5 Interpretation and Education ...... 18 9 Summary table - management and monitoring objectives ...... 20 10 Appendix 1 – Self Guided Trail Leaflet ...... 25 11 Appendix 2 – Strategies ...... 27

1 Introduction

This document is designed to highlight the heritage features of Wallingford Castle Meadows and illustrate how we understand, acknowledge, share, conserve and enhance the heritage value of the site. It is intended to be used in conjunction with the overall site management plan to assist with the proper preservation of the site and its heritage features. This plan covers the three year period from 2014 to 2017, so that its next revision will coincide with the revision of the main site management plan in April 2017.

Map 1 – Wallingford Castle Meadows in context

2 Site Description

Location Name: Wallingford Castle Meadows OS Grid Reference: SU 608 898 OS sheet numbers: Landranger (1:50 000) no. 164 Explorer 151 District: South Oxfordshire County: Oxfordshire Country: ENGLAND Local Planning Authority: South Oxfordshire District Council Current status: Site contains a Scheduled Ancient Monument (SAM no. SM OX176) and two sections of wall that are Grade I listed buildings. The whole site lies within a Conservation Area. The site is currently listed on the English Heritage Register 2

of Historic Parks and Gardens. Inclusion in the UK database of Historic Parks and Gardens is pending. Total area: 16.6 hectares (c. 41 acres) Person responsible for site: Dominic Lamb, Shared Countryside Officer, SODC, Council Offices, Benson Lane, Crowmarsh Gifford, Oxon, OX10 8NJ Tel: 01491 823133 Email: [email protected] Owner: South Oxfordshire District Council Type of holding: Freehold Date of purchase: 31st March 1999

2.1 Compartments For reference, the site has been divided into 7 management compartments: U1, U2, U3, U4, U5, U6 (all on higher ground), L1 (Queen’s Arbour) and L2 (King’s Meadow). See Map 2 below.

Map 2 – Site and Management Compartments 3

3 Policy

3.1 Policy Statement South Oxfordshire District Council acquired Wallingford Castle Meadows in 1999 for the benefit of the people of South Oxfordshire. The site is managed for informal recreation consistent with the proper preservation and interpretation of Wallingford Castle Scheduled Ancient Monument and other historical landscape features, and the conservation and enhancement of wildlife.

The management of Wallingford Castle Meadows directly contributes to two of the Council’s Strategic Objectives: • To maintain and enhance the environment • To improve health and well-being In addition it indirectly contributes to the Councils strategic objective to maintain and improve the economy by helping to boost the local tourist industry.

3.2 Other Policies Relevant to the Site

3.2.1 Ancient Monuments and Archaeological Areas Act 1979 Much of the site (Compartments U1, U2 and U4, as shown on Map 2) is within the Scheduled Ancient Monument. Scheduled Monument Consent (granted by the Department for Media, Culture and Sport following recommendations from English Heritage) is needed for any invasive works that would affect the archaeological features and deposits on the site. The standing fragments of castle wall at SU 6102 8971 and SU 6096 8978 are Grade I listed buildings. Scheduled Monument Consent takes precedence over Listed Building Consent and therefore it is the former that would be required for any works (including repair) to the fabric of the standing remains.

Certain procedures also exist for ‘emergency’ works (e.g. to protect public safety). There is an obligation to address the repair needs of the masonry fragments and consequently to seek guidance from English Heritage at an early stage. It should be noted that any repair works (particularly of an extensive nature) would need to be preceded by a programme of archaeological recording.

3.2.2 Listed Buildings and Conservation Areas Act 1990 In addition to the masonry fragments referred to above, the walls, gates, lodge and chapels of Wallingford Cemetery (not within Wallingford Castle Meadows, but abutting Compartment U3) are Grade II listed buildings. It may be necessary in the future to carry out repairs to the cemetery walls. Clearly, these repairs should be carried out in accordance with their listed status. Work/development affecting the ‘setting’ of any of the listed buildings would need to ensure the preservation of their ‘setting’.

The whole site is located within the Wallingford Conservation Area. In addition to works affecting trees (see below), there would be a duty under the terms of the Planning (Listed Buildings & Conservation Areas) Act 1990 on the Council as Local Planning Authority to ensure that any works within the site had the effect of ‘preserving or enhancing the character and appearance’ of the area.

3.2.3 Trees As set out in the 1975 regulations (amendments to the Town and Country Planning Act regarding Trees in Conservation Areas) the Council is exempt from the regulations “for work on trees on land occupied by the Local Planning Authority and carried out with the Local Planning Authority’s consent”. Clearly, the Council’s Forestry Officer would be closely involved in any works necessary.

3.2.4 The Equality Act 2010 The Equality Act 2010 brought together all of the existing anti discrimination legislation into one act. Where it applies to countryside access and Castle Meadows in particular is to ensure all reasonable means have been taken to ensure that all features on site are as accessible as possible. Where all inclusive access cannot be achieved, for example in the Scheduled Ancient Monument, then we have a duty to ensure the least restrictive option has been chosen to provide the greatest level of accessibility to the widest number of people.

3.3 Other Legal Agreements The Land Registry Transfer document dated 31st March 1999 imposes certain restrictive covenants on the land. Most of these are of minor significance given the use of the site implied by the Policy Statement (page 5).

Castle Park (Wallingford) Company Limited1 reserve the right of access to their retained land and Thameside Mansions, with or without vehicles, in case of emergency or if access via Castle Lane is impassable, along the track from the end of Cemetery Lane, shown “A” - “B” on Map 2, or along such other route agreed between both parties. Except in cases of emergency, 48hrs notice is required before entry, and all damage occasioned by the exercise of the right of access will be made good. The track referred to is mainly within compartment U3, and to the south, forms the division between U2/U1 and U5/U4.

The District Council assumes responsibility for all boundaries of the site. A local land charge or planning obligation dated 26th November 1996, originally between Edward Ryall and SODC, is in force prohibiting any building, structure, erection or hard standing of any kind whether temporary or permanent . . . to be constructed placed or erected on the land. This obligation is now of no effect, as the Council as Local Planning Authority cannot take action against itself as landowner.

4 Cultural and Historical Background

4.1 Historic Land Use The following account, which deals mainly with the castle, is based on information provided by The Wallingford Historical and Archaeological Society (TWHAS), supplemented by additional references. A major 4 year research project, the Burh to Borough Project, undertaken by the Universities of Leicester, Exeter and Oxford has added much to our understanding of the site. A monograph of the project, Transforming Townscapes, has recently been published (October 2013).

While there is evidence for prehistoric and Romano-British activity in the immediate area, the present town of Wallingford was founded as a fortified town or Burh in the late ninth century. It was surrounded on the north, west and south by substantial ramparts of timber and earth construction, and a water-filled ditch fed from a stream to the west. The eastern boundary was protected by the River Thames, very probably with a narrow bridge-head on the other side of the river (Hinton, 1990). The northern section of the town (modified by construction of the medieval castle) appears to coincide with the boundary of compartments U1 and U2, with its ditch terminating in U5, possibly associated with the present pond. These defences did not however prevent the destruction of the town by Vikings in 1006.

In 1067, following William the Conqueror’s crossing of the Thames at Wallingford in his year of conquest, an order was made for the construction of a castle. This was built in the north-east corner of the town, and incorporated a section of the Anglo-Saxon rampart and ditch in its fortifications. The first phase, a motte and bailey castle, seems to have been finished in 1071, and occupied part of compartment U1 and land in the present Castle Gardens. The Doomsday survey (1086) makes reference to the destruction of eight properties (hagae) during the building of this castle. At this time Wallingford was the most important town in Berkshire with 491 houses, compared with 100 in Windsor and 28 in Reading (Hedges, 1881) and still vied in importance with both Abingdon and Oxford (Blair, 1995).

The castle remained in royal hands throughout the 12th century, played an active role in the ‘Anarchy’ of Stephen’s reign (Slade, 1960), and was extended in the early 13th century by the addition of a second wall and moat on the north and west surrounding a new bailey. This work buried a 12th century cob house, the remains of which were revealed in an excavation of 1972 (Simpson, 1973).

The castle was further extended in the second half of the 13th century when a third defensive rampart was added to the north and west, burying the town’s northern gate, and necessitating the moving of Castle Street several metres to the west. This was revealed in excavations in 1965 and 1966 (Brooks, 1965-6). The castle was at its most formidable in the 13th and 14th centuries. It was a very strong defensive centre with active garrisons and frequently hosted royal visits. There were mills on the stream closest to the river and the castle’s activities and needs encouraged the prosperity of the town, especially in the 13th century.

By the 16th century Wallingford, like many other castles, was effectively redundant in a less feudal society and fell into disrepair. Described by the antiquary John Leland in c.1538 as ‘sore yn ruine and for the most part defaced’, lead and timber were taken by river during the 1550s for use in royal building projects at Windsor (Colvin, 1963). Several of the buildings were, however, still occupied and some new houses appear to have been built within the walls. A plan of the castle as it stood c.1550 can be found in the Bodleian Library, Oxford (MS.Top.Berks c.28).

The castle was re-fortified during the Civil War of the 17th century, and was an important defensive outpost of the king’s headquarters at Oxford. It withstood a lengthy siege in 1646, but was forced to surrender after the king’s capture. On 18th November 1652 Cromwell’s Council of State ordered the systematic destruction of Wallingford Castle: the stone was removed and sold, and the site left derelict with only a few fragments of wall remaining.

Although throughout its medieval history, the castle was a royal possession, it was granted at various times to individual custodians, initially by the king himself, but from 1337 as part of the Duchy of Cornwall, the inheritance of the monarch’s eldest son. A large and valuable Honour of Wallingford was associated with the castle, bringing wealth from extensive land holdings throughout England and abroad. After its destruction and the restoration of the monarchy in 1660, the castle again became a royal possession and the site was used for various purposes including illicit meetings of non-conformists in the late 17th century, and also, reputedly, as a place of retreat for Oxford scholars during times of plague.

In the early 19th century it was finally sold by the crown, and after a short period in divided ownership, was bought by the Hedges family who built a substantial Gothic-style house on the southern part of the site in 1837, landscaped its immediate grounds and carried out extensive tree planting in the area to the north. The extent of this landscaping can be seen on the 1876 Ordnance Survey 25” map of the area, by which time the boat house (the remains of which still survive) had also been erected on the inlet between Queen’s Arbour and King’s Meadow. The town cemetery (adjoining Area U3) was laid out c.1860.

4.2 Recent Land Use In the 1930s, compartment L1 (Queen’s Arbour) was used as a playing field by a small private junior school (St Anthony’s) based in the High Street. A photograph of this period shows the grass closely mown and a game of cricket in progress. The same photograph shows the boathouse on the ditch between L1 and L2 - now reduced to concrete foundations. (M. Volins, pers comm.)

The house built by the Hedges family was demolished in 1972 and after a proposal to develop this part of the site was rejected by a public inquiry in 1977, the southern part was given at a peppercorn rent to Wallingford Town Council. The Victorian Castle Gardens were restored for public access by the Town Council.

In more recent years Mr Edward Ryall ran a dairy unit at Castle Farm, on the site and the meadows beyond. Both lower compartments were ploughed and re-seeded about 30 years ago, and were subsequently cut for silage and heavily grazed, with annual applications of manure and NPK fertiliser. (E. Ryall pers. comm.). Castle Farm was eventually sold and the built-up part of the farm to the south of the castle mound was developed by Berkeley Homes in the form of Thameside Mansions. The purchase of the remaining Castle Farm land by South Oxfordshire District Council in 1999 has brought virtually the entire site of Wallingford Castle into public ownership.

4.3 Landscape Character The site falls within the River Thames Corridor Character Area in the South Oxfordshire Landscape Assessment (Atlantic Consultants, undated). The entire site is classed as Flat Floodplain Pasture, and recommended for conservation. The Thames Corridor is characterised by its flat pasture land on gravel and alluvium soils overlying clay. There is a long history of settlement and use, with Wallingford itself at a strategic position by an important ford. Small areas of parkland are noted as of importance in the landscape. The landscape of Flat Floodplain 7

Pasture is typically permanent pasture, riparian in character and prone to flooding, with conspicuous willows. It forms areas of important riverside green space adjoining urban settlements such as Wallingford. The landscape type contains some important floodplain wetlands, artificially created by excavation for gravel, with semi-natural vegetation and wildlife.

4.4 Victorian Parkland Plantings The site contains a large number of mature native and exotic trees that clearly formed defining features of a planned parkland landscape. The species present are listed in the South Oxfordshire District Council tree survey report (January 2000), and include Wellingtonias and evergreen oak. The Wellingtonias set the earliest possible date as 1853 when the first seeds arrived in Scotland (Mitchell 1996), and it is likely the trees were established within ten years of this date, when the species was very popular. The Hedges family bought the castle site from the crown in 1817 and in 1837 John Allnatt Hedges built a Gothic-style house in what is now Castle Gardens. It was almost certainly he and his son, John Kirby Hedges, author of the 2-volume “The History of Wallingford” (1881) who were responsible for the majority of the landscape planting of the site, the considerable extent of which can be seen on the 1876 Ordnance Survey 25” map of the area.

It seems likely that the pines and some Wellingtonias marked key points on the demesne boundary, with specimen plantings of single trees and groups (e.g. the beech clump in U3). A line of parkland oaks in U3 may be intended to draw the eye and/or have been allowed to grow out of a vanished hedgerow. The Holm oaks appear to have been evergreen roadside screening. Maintenance and gradual replacement of the planting scheme is fundamental to conserving the landscape character of the site.

5 Management

5.1 Management Structure As the site owner, South Oxfordshire District Council (comprising Councillors and Officers) is the budget-holder and ultimate decision-maker. The Council sets and reviews policy and targets for the site.

Responsibility for the overall management of the site and the implementation of the Site Management Plan and the Heritage Conservation Management Plan rests with the Council’s Countryside Officer who works closely with a warden who is responsible for day-to-day management. At the time of writing this plan the warden post is provided through a contractual agreement between the Council and the Earth Trust. This arrangement will be reviewed in, on or before April 2016 in accordance with the Council’s Contract Procurement Rules.

The Earth Trust are contracted to provide full time wardening cover for Wallingford Castle Meadows and three other council owned sites. The Trust is responsible for undertaking all aspects of site management contained in this plan. As the Council is the budget holder all expenditure has to be agreed in advance. In practice the Trust is able to purchase items and re- charge the Council. The warden and the Council have six-monthly review meetings to monitor progress against an agreed set of targets resulting from the management plans and there is regular communication over all aspects of site management between the Trust and Council.

The Earth Trust has been used as the main contractor delivering site management services for the last 14 years. This contractual relationship is mutually beneficial for the following reasons: • The Trust has significant organisational resources which it can utilise to support the contract (i.e. in house ecological, educational, land management and event organising expertise) • The Trust benefits by being able to engage with local communities surrounding its base at Little Wittenham • The Trust has expertise and experience in dealing with volunteers as well as having a pool of regular volunteers that can be called on to complete work on site • The Trust has significant experience of managing sites of historical importance. It owns and manages Sinodun Hill Camp Iron Age hill fort on the Wittenham Clumps (Scheduled Monument No. SM OX208)

The Meadows Advisory Group was set up in 2000 to help the council in its management of the site. The group has members from all the principal bodies with an interest in the site. Its role is to ensure these bodies are properly informed and consulted, to review and give advice on general progress and specific issues, and assist with the implementation of the management plan. It has an important role in extending contacts for the site into a wider network. Representatives from English Heritage, the county archaeologist, Wallingford Museum and the Wallingford History and Archaeology Society sit on the advisory group and are invaluable in advising us on matters relating to the enhancement and preservation of the Scheduled Ancient Monument and the site as a whole.

5.2 Higher Level Stewardship Agreement Since October 2000 the site has been in one of the Governments agri-environment schemes. The most recent Higher Level Stewardship agreement began in April 2011. The agreement pays a small amount towards the revenue costs of managing the site as well as capital items such as maintenance of the standing remains, remedial fencing works, tree planting and the installation of bat and bird boxes. Funding for revenue items includes payment for maintenance of grassland for target features such as below ground archaeology, historical structures and designed landscape.

6 Community Involvement

6.1 Marketing In order to gain a better understanding of who uses the site, and to help us in formulating plans and policies, we conducted a survey of visitors to Wallingford Castle Meadows each year from 2002 to 2009 and then bi-annually from 2011. The survey uses standard questions year on year to determine where people have travelled from, how they got to the site and the purpose of their visit. It also includes one off questions about plans that we are hoping to implement in the future.

During the course of the last 11 years we have undertaken a number of works, in line with the management plan, for which we have sought public opinion. These include issues such as signage to and around the site, the Castle Gardens access gate, mowing of the preferred paths, the tree planting scheme and the presence of grazing cattle. Using the visitor survey

to address these issues has allowed us to take into consideration public opinion before works commence

The results of the survey help us to determine our target audience and to then target our marketing and events to those people. It also helps us to make improvements to the site, plan interpretation and find out what the visitors really think about the site as a whole.

The visitor survey will be available on both the Earth Trust and SODC websites by the end of 2014. This will enable us to gather feedback from visitors without the need for face to face surveys and will be more convenient for visitors to use.

6.2 Communications The Earth Trust produces a monthly e-newsletter which goes out to our extensive email list. This features news from all of the sites we manage including the main site at Wittenham Clumps. A quarterly warden’s diary is also published via the websites, through local magazines and parish newsletters and to all of the volunteers. This gives an update on all the recent happenings on the sites as well as any upcoming work or interesting wildlife to spot in the season ahead. An annual report is produced for presentation to the Council and the representatives of the Meadows Advisory Group (MAG) in March which covers the previous year’s work in detail.

Since winning the Green Flag for the first time in 2008 we have held an annual “thank you” event for volunteers at Castle Meadows. This usually takes the form of a barbeque and flag raising ceremony to which all the practical volunteers, volunteer wardens, friends of groups and representatives of the Earth Trust and South Oxfordshire District Council are invited. This also serves as a photo opportunity for press releases about the Green Flag win. Events and courses at Castle Meadows have been regularly featured in local newspapers. The site was also featured in a radio broadcast on BBC Oxford radio during the early phases of the Burh to Borough Archaeological project.

The Wallingford History and Archaeological Society hold an annual conference in the town every October to present the most up to date findings of the Burh to Borough project to the local community. Castle Meadows often features heavily at the conference due to its prominence both in the research and in the community as a whole.

6.3 Interpretation Wallingford Castle Meadows is a unique opportunity to discover Wallingford’s rich heritage, and experience the special wildlife of lowland meadows, in a beautiful, peaceful, outdoor environment on the banks of the Thames. Our interpretation strategy is included in full in Appendix 2 however a brief summary of our objectives in providing interpretation at Castle Meadows is included below.

6.3.1 Learning Objectives After visiting Castle Meadows, the majority of visitors will: • Know that one of the largest, strongest, royal castles in Britain stood here. • Understand that the site has over 1000 years of history of people using it.

• Understand why this site was chosen to build a castle and how it ties in with Castle Gardens and the rest of the town. • Understand that the site is managed for wildlife, the Scheduled Ancient Monument and the public in a fine balance. • Learn about life inside the castle in peacetime and more recent history. • Learn about the traditional management of the site i.e. hay meadows. • Understand the history of the pond and its relevance to the rest of the site. • Understand the history and scheme of the Victorian tree plantings. 6.3.2 Behavioural Objectives When visiting WCM, the majority of visitors will: • Treat site resources with a sense of respect and stewardship. • Not climb on the standing remains, dig holes, cycle, set fires or litter on the site. A smaller percentage of visitors will leave: • Wanting to join local efforts for historical research and preservation. • Wanting to visit Castle Gardens and Wallingford Museum to find out more. 6.3.3 Emotional Objectives After visiting WCM, the majority of visitors will: • Feel a sense of pride in Wallingford’s royal history and our efforts to preserve it.

Interpretation panels have been placed at each of the entrances to the site and in strategic locations in front of Queens Tower, adjacent to the Victorian Pond and along the Thames Path in Queen’s Arbour (7 in total). These give information on the site, about its current management, history and ecology.

A self guided walk leaflet is also available via leaflet dispensers at the entrances, at Wallingford Museum, the Town Information Centre and online via the Council’s and the Earth Trust websites (see Appendix 1). An alternative version of the self guided trail leaflet is available on the websites to assist those with mobility issues and help them plan their visit to Castle Meadows.

We have consistently sought to obtain opinion on the interpretation provided on site to find out if people are reading it, if it answers their questions and if they would like more information on any particular aspect of the site. Generally around half of those interviewed had read the interpretation boards and found them to be very informative. Extra information was requested on all aspects of the site, with the castle and historical information being the most popular, only a small proportion of people wanted information relating to wildlife. This is reflected on our boards and leaflets where the emphasis is primarily on the history of the castle and visible remains.

6.4 Events In 2002 nearly a third of people interviewed in the visitor surveys said they would be interested in attending an organised event on site. As a result a comprehensive events programme was put in place and by the 2005 survey a quarter of people had attended an event on site. By 2007 this had increased to half of those interviewed. When asked what kind of events they would like to see on site the majority wanted historical or archaeological

events, with wildlife events and site walks being slightly less popular. Family and children’s activities were the least popular, which is reflected in the fact that most of our visitors are over 55.

Today regular events not only include historical and archaeological walks, along with various wildlife themed events, but also seek to try to encourage families and young children onto the site by providing family friendly courses and workshops. Wallingford Museum also runs a number of history walks every year around the site, which helps to further strengthen the relationship between the museum, the town and the Castle.

6.5 Education and Research Part of the mission of the Earth Trust is to “Educate and engage people in their local landscape and inspire them to take action to protect it”. To this end we have drafted an education strategy for Wallingford Castle Meadows which is available in full in Appendix 2.

Wallingford Castle Meadows is perfectly situated in the centre of Wallingford town with one secondary and four primary schools on its doorstep, as well as numerous schools in outlying villages just a short drive away. There is clear potential for using the site for outdoor education across a wide range of subjects. Whilst the obvious beneficiary subjects are archaeology and history, the site provides an excellent resource for science and geography, especially regarding settlement, communications, water and the environment.

Wallingford Museum, which includes special displays on the history and importance of the castle, is situated within 500m of the site. We hope to continue exploring opportunities for joint working with Wallingford Museum and seek to develop an education package in conjunction with them. This may be in the form of a half-day spent at the museum followed by a half-day of educational activities on site at Wallingford Castle Meadows delivered by the education team or by the warden. This would offer the opportunity to extend history or archaeology topics introduced in the museum or allow students to explore ecology and wildlife, or how land use has changed over time and how it is managed today. This will also enable Wallingford Museum to offer a wider learning experience in and out of the museum.

The Wallingford Historical and Archaeological Society has published a short guide to Wallingford Castle (TWHAS 1984), and the site is well documented in specialist archaeological and historical literature. The monograph of the Burh to Borough Research project was published towards the end of 2013 and has added a great deal to our knowledge of the site. It has highlighted Wallingford Castle as significant historical site and an important area for further research and investigation, something that we hope to help facilitate in the future.

7 Evaluation of Features of Interest

7.1 Scheduled Ancient Monument Size In cultural terms, Wallingford Castle was once one of the largest castles in England, and its remains, although largely reduced to earthworks, are very large and coherent. Recorded history There is a wealth of recorded history for the castle, much of which has already been collated by Wallingford Museum and the Wallingford Historical and Archaeological 12

Society. The monograph of the Burh to Borough research project was published in October 2013 and has significantly added to our understanding of the site and its relationship to Wallingford as a whole. Intrinsic appeal The visible and buried archaeological remains provide some of the principal interest for local inhabitants and other visitors to the site, especially with their close integration into the landscape and local cultural history.

7.2 Buried Archaeology Size Two unpublished excavations in the 1960’s and 70’s found substantial sub surface archaeology, in good condition. A third documented excavation on Queen’s Arbour conducted in 2003 revealed further buried archaeology. The Burh to Borough project conducted five excavations within Castle Meadows between 2008 and 2011 and unearthed a wealth of buried archaeology and finds which are now displayed in Wallingford Museum. Recorded history A full report on the Burh to Borough Project was published in 2013. Rarity The castle site is unusual in having so little standing fabric, which leaves the majority of the site accessible for both non-invasive investigation and, where considered appropriate, excavation. The undeveloped nature of the whole area means the site is an archaeological resource of national importance which makes it one of the principal features of the site.

7.3 Victorian Parkland Plantings Local character The presence on site of substantial traces of a parkland planting scheme associated with an important phase in the use of the castle site, and to a distinguished local Victorian resident, further enhances the landscape of the site and its appeal and interest to the public. The parkland landscape to the north of Wallingford Castle was singled out in the South Oxfordshire Landscape Assessment as a particular priority for maintenance and restoration. (Atlantic Consultants, undated). Structural diversity Structural diversity is low for these trees, which have a fairly uniform (mature to senescent) age structure.

7.4 Victorian Pond Rarity A small colony of Snake’s-head fritillary, possibly planted by the Victorian landowners, is found in the south-eastern corner of the pond area and this population should be maintained. Other remnants of the Victorian planting scheme designed to turn the area around the pond into a woodland grotto include bluebells, snowdrops and daffodils which still flower in profusion in this area. Local character The landscaped plantings of the pond contribute to the overall ‘romantic landscape’ character of the site. History The pond was likely formed from part of the Castle moat, in an area where the moats drained into the Thames, probably via a series of dams and sluices. The topography in this area is likely to be significant and should be retained.

7.5 Interpretation and Education Range The sites interpretational value is obviously dependent on its importance in other respects, and so is very high for the archaeological, historical, landscape, species conservation and habitat restoration aspects. There is clear potential for using the site for outdoor education 13

across a wide range of subjects. Whilst the obvious beneficiary subjects are archaeology and history, the site provides an excellent resource for science and geography, especially regarding settlement, communications, water and the environment Accessibility The link with the Thames Path and traffic on the river itself means that there is a special need for interpretation. There are schools within walking distance of the site. Other schools in the district are a short drive away.

8 Management and Monitoring Objectives

8.1 Scheduled Ancient Monument Vision: Preservation/consolidation of existing profiles of earthworks. Preservation of the listed wall fragments intact.

Factors that may influence the feature Positive factors • Grade I listing and Scheduled Ancient Monument status provides a measure of statutory protection. • There is good survey information on current condition. • Works were carried out during 2004 to consolidate the standing remains and again in 2013 for minor repairs.

Negative factors/constraints • Erosion by rabbits can cause problems with the earthworks; active rabbit control is keeping the population under control. • Queen’s Tower is leaning; as far as we are aware the movement has ceased but the advice we have is that there is no effective remedy that would not irrevocably damage the look and feel of the site. • Vandalism could be a concern. • Poaching of earthworks by cattle a concern if stocking densities not regulated.

Objective – To maintain the Grade I listed structures and their setting, the Ancient Monument, and other archaeological features in favourable condition, where: 1. There is no further loss of fabric from the existing structures (except through unavoidable natural erosion). 2. There is no further avoidable erosion of the earthworks.

Management of feature In 2001 the standing remains were fenced off from the main site area to prevent cattle and people causing further erosion and for public safety. Advice on the works necessary to consolidate the standing remains was obtained from English Heritage and specialist surveys were undertaken by Oxford Archaeology to determine the extent of the works required. A specialist contractor was employed in summer 2004 to carry out the consolidation works required (Nimbus Conservation) and a full record of the work has been kept and is held by the Council. A follow-up survey in 2012 highlighted minor re-pointing and other works were necessary. These works were carried out by specialist contractors Well’s Cathedral Stonemasons in summer 2013 through funding from the HLS scheme.

Monitoring of the standing remains is now essential to ensure their ongoing stability and to advise of any further works required. Queen’s Tower is leaning towards the River Thames but 14

this movement is not thought to be recent. Advice received by the Council is that there is little which can be done to make the tower any more stable over and above what has already taken place.

Erosion to the earthworks has been controlled by the regulation of grazing and of rabbits. In addition the preferred paths are regularly mown during the summer months to channel public use of the site and to limit the amount of erosion by walkers.

Management activities Control grazing pressure to prevent damage to the earthworks. Control rabbit population to prevent further damage to the earthworks. Provide interpretation for site and individual features. Mow preferred paths. Supervise the use of the site by the public by providing a warden/supervisory presence. Maintain the volunteer warden network and reporting system. Control vegetation inside fenced areas around standing remains to provide a managed “cared for” appearance.

Monitoring activities Monitor the levels of rabbit damage to earthworks and take action to reduce population when necessary. Monitor the site for damage to earthworks caused by other factors such as human pressure and grazing animals. Monitor the condition of the standing remains. Commission a survey of remains once every five years to determine any works needed. Next due in 2017.

8.2 Buried Archaeology Vision: Preservation of the buried archaeology. Location and interpretation of these features in accordance with current government guidelines, in particular PPS 5 Planning for the Historic Environment.

Factors that may influence the feature Positive factors • Previous excavations indicate substantial structures remain in good condition. • Possibility of organic evidence in waterlogged soils of compartment L1. • No evidence of damage under present conditions. • Burh to Borough archaeological project now complete but there is the possibility of attracting future funding for well-conducted research to assist interpretation.

Negative factors/constraints • Geophysical research is costly. • Risk from illegal metal detecting. • Constraints imposed by the Higher Level Stewardship Agreement.

Objective – To maintain a programme of primarily non-invasive research on the archaeology and history of the site, so that: 1. The existing earthworks and fabric are researched and interpreted to visitors in an informed and interesting way.

2. The disposition of the structures within the various stages of the castle's evolution is better understood. 3. Any structures remaining on the lower floodplain meadows are identified, appropriately managed and interpreted.

Management of feature Information gathered during research into the history and archaeology of the Wallingford Castle Meadows site is only valuable if it is used to inform both the management of the site and the visiting public. Therefore, there should be a strong link between any research and the provision of interpretation both on and off the site. There are no members of staff assigned to the Wallingford Castle Meadows site with both the time and expertise to carry out such investigations, so work should be organised in conjunction with partners such as TWHAS and the Wallingford Museum.

Since 2002 the universities of Leicester, Exeter and Oxford have been undertaking a survey of Wallingford and its Castle called the Burh to Borough Research Project. These surveys have looked at documentary evidence in conjunction with TWHAS and have involved excavation, geophysical and topographical survey. Any information collected on the archaeology or history of the site will be used to further inform the interpretation of the site. There is the potential for funding to interpret various features found during the course of the Burh to Borough investigations. A panel interpreting the dig in Queen’s Arbour was installed along the Thames Path boundary in 2011.

Management activities • Liaise with Archaeologists, English Heritage and Natural England over any excavations planned.

Monitoring activities • Monitor site for metal detectorists. 8.3 Victorian Parkland Plantings Vision: Maintain the characteristics of the landscape planting by replacing trees in a planned way, over the long term. Retain non-biological features of the landscape where possible. Retain as much dead wood (standing and lying) as possible and extend the life of over-mature trees.

Factors that may influence the feature Positive factors • Some of the trees, both Victorian plantings and older trees, have a considerable potential remaining life span. • Considerable detail of the plantings is visible on the 1876 Ordnance Survey 25 inch map. • Public appreciation of the trees is very marked.

Negative factors/constraints • Many trees are mature or post-mature and have limited remaining life. • Public perception may not favour necessary management of trees (i.e. tree surgery), which will have to be carried out in order to prolong the healthy life of some of the trees, and also on grounds of health and safety. • Tree surgery required for health and safety reasons will reduce the amount of standing dead wood and may also destroy nesting sites for birds. • Replanting will need to be done skilfully to maintain character. 16

• No detailed estate maps of the original full planting scheme appear to exist.

Objective – To maintain the parkland landscape and historic landscape planting in favourable condition, where: 1. There is a good mixture of trees of different ages across the site. 2. The species composition of the parkland trees approximates to the original planting scheme. 3. The pattern of landscape planting is maintained. 4. There is no deterioration in the visual quality or 'romantic' landscape feel of the site.

Management of feature A tree survey conducted in 2000 identified all the trees in need of felling or works for safety reasons or to help prolong their life. All necessary works were carried out during 2000 with additional works being undertaken as and when necessary to maintain the safety of the site. A lightning conductor was installed on the largest of the Wellingtonias (by the Victorian pond) to protect it from lightning strike as many of the other specimens have been degraded by lightning in the past.

A tree strategy for the site was produced in 2007 (see Appendix 2). Re-planting has been targeted towards reproducing the Victorian landscape planting scheme, in order to perpetuate the survival of the landscape planting, and to ensure a varied age structure. The tree strategy further analyses the design style and disposition of planting including the selection and provenance of tree and shrub species.

Management activities • Maintain existing planting scheme and carry out necessary works to ensure public safety and health of trees. • Carry out planting in accordance with the tree strategy.

Monitoring activities • Monitor the lightning conductor for strikes and replace fuse as necessary. • Carry out regular monitoring for unsafe limbs, especially after windy/stormy conditions and take appropriate action as necessary • Monitor health of new plantings, particularly in dry conditions and water as necessary. 8.4 Victorian Pond Vision: The pond is able to sustain a more balanced aquatic community while retaining its planned landscaped quality.

Factors that may influence the feature Positive factors • There is a small population of Snake’s-head fritillary. • Some ornamentals remain, e.g. Wellingtonia, box, Spanish bluebells. • Pond and banks lie outside the Scheduled Ancient Monument and restoration works do not require consent.

Negative factors/constraints • Pond origins may lie within the original Saxon ditch, and this could limit restoration options. • Pond steps and platform are likely to be inaccessible during floods. Signage is in place to warn public of the dangers. 17

Objective – To restore the pond and maintain it in favourable condition, where: 1. The landscaped setting of the pond is partially restored and maintained. 2. Aquatic and marginal plants colonise the site. 3. The surroundings are safely accessible to the public. 4. Population of Snake’s-head fritillary thrive.

Management of feature There is still a large amount of ornamental planting around the pond, which could be restored fairly easily. The consultation process has shown that public appreciation of the landscape value of the site (and the pond area in particular) is high and that there is a strong desire to retain this as a landscaped feature. A large number of self- seeded sycamores have been removed from the area in order to reduce the level of shading and allow marginal and aquatic vegetation to establish.

Public access to the pond is achieved via two self closing pedestrian gates, a path surfaced with wood chip, and a viewing platform overlooking the pond. The area around the path and on the western edge of the pond adjacent to the ditch will be kept open and strummed twice a year to prevent the growth of rank grasses and scrub. This should also help to maintain the small population of Snake’s-head fritillary.

The pond area has been identified in surveys as being a popular feeding site for bats, particularly the common and soprano pipistrelle. Therefore, the remainder of the pond periphery will be left unmanaged as a habitat for bats and the insects upon which they are feeding. In addition a number of bat boxes have been put up to provide additional roosting sites.

Management activities • Manage one third of the pond periphery by strimming twice a year (the western side) to provide a more formal area consistent with the original Victorian planting. • Manage the box hedging to the south and west of the pond so that it doesn’t encroach onto the area colonised by the Snake’s-head fritillary. • Maintain viewing points from the main path to the west of the pond enclosure to ensure that those with limited mobility, who are unable to traverse the pond steps, still have a clear view of the pond and its environs.

Monitoring activities • Monitor viewing platform and steps in pond area for safety and undertake repairs as necessary. • Undertake annual survey of Snake’s-head fritillary and Loddon lily. • Erect signs warning when paths underwater.

8.5 Interpretation and Education Vision: Increased awareness and understanding of the history and significance of the castle and its role in Wallingford’s history by the public. Use of the site as an educational resource, by local schools and other educational establishments.

Factors which may influence the feature Positive factors • General attractiveness of site, presence of excellent local museum and team of local historians. • Several other Ancient Monuments nearby (e.g. Wallingford Bridge and Anglo-Saxon ramparts). • Two impressive remaining pieces of masonry (plus more within Castle Gardens). • Enormous opportunities offered by the site for national and local history studies. • Excellent potential for use in geography and science sectors of National Curriculum. • Four schools within walking distance; many more within easy reach.

Negative factors/constraints • Very limited visible remains of the castle. • Some forms of interpretation could be visually intrusive and conflict with the landscape and setting. • Vandalism to expensive interpretation panels, etc.

Objective – To interpret the historical and conservation value of the site to the visiting public, so that: • The visiting public are aware of the site's main features and its significance for archaeological conservation. • The public are aware of the significance of the site in relation to the other historic features of Wallingford and the surrounding area. • The site is seen as one of the principal attractions of the district. • The site provides a quality educational resource for local schools.

Management of feature Six A1 interpretation panels have been installed, four at the entrances, one adjacent to Queen’s Tower and one in Queen’s Arbour visible from the Thames Path. Three of the panels are general and provide information on history and ecology as well as the code of conduct. The other three panels provide information primarily on the history of the castle. An additional A3 panel has been installed in the Victorian Pond area which provides information about this area. In addition to the in situ interpretation there are notice boards at all site entrances to allow for information on site management to be displayed and for advertising of events.

A self-guided walk leaflet and oak marker posts have been produced which allow visitors to learn about the history and archaeology of the site following a pre-determined route.

Over the first plan period the site has been used for educational purposes on an infrequent basis by local historians and Wallingford School but the potential for this type of use has not been fully explored. Further efforts are being made to increase the site’s educational uses and an Education Strategy is available as a separate document in Appendix 2.

Since 2004 there has been a regular programme of events running over the summer months. The events have covered a variety of topics both historical and ecological and have been run in conjunction with a number of partners including TWHAS, Earth Trust and various recording groups. To date the events have proved extremely popular and have attracted many new people to the site including a lot of local people.

In addition to events organised by the warden a number of events organised by other organisations have been held under licence on the site, and have proved to be a good way of attracting new people and interest in the site.

Management activities • Implement education strategy • Continue to provide a varied programme of events throughout the summer months. • Allow use of the site for appropriate non-damaging events under licence. • Warden to provide informal interpretation of site to visitors. • Keep notice boards up to date with relevant information.

Monitoring activities • Monitor external events. • Keep a record of attendance at all organised events. • Keep copies of any press or media coverage. • Monitor educational use of site. • Monitor condition of interpretation materials and update as necessary

9 Summary table - management and monitoring objectives

Feature/ Activity/ Activity One off, Further Location Task code Annual or Information/Timing (Admin, Continuous Practical, task Monitoring)

All fields M Monitor/map areas of A June/July significant weed infestation on an annual basis All fields P Remove undesirable weeds by A April – August. spot spraying or hand pulling Creeping thistle, spear thistle, dock, ragwort, nettle. By 2014 less than 5% cover. All fields P Introduce competition tolerant A wildflower species All fields M Undertake annual vegetation A June/July survey to monitor success of seed introduction All fields M Monitor for poaching in wet C weather All fields M Monitor extent and duration of C flooding Buried A Liaise with archaeologists and O As required Archaeology English Heritage/Natural England over any excavations planned

Buried M Monitor site for metal C archaeology detectorists Copse P Replace trees/shrubs x 100 O Complete by Mar 2014 Copse P Tree care - strim, hand A April - August pull/mattock weeds/grasses around saplings, mulch Ditches P Scrub removal on ditch banks A Three year rotation – between Oct - Feb Remove 75% - only one bank in any year General P Mow preferred paths A April – September management once a month General A Carry out six-monthly risk C March and September management assessment General A Seek outside funding for O As required management eligible projects General A Revise site management plan O Next revision 2017 management (5yearly revision) General A Produce annual work plan and A Monitor implementation management quarterly task list of work plan/task lists General A Hold quarterly progress A End of March, June, management meetings with SODC manager Sept, Dec General A Hold yearly meeting of A March - Also Autumn management Meadows Advisory Group site visit General A Produce a progress report for A March management the Meadows Advisory Group General A Negotiate annual grazing A February/March management licence General P Maintain wardening presence C management to monitor site activity and safety General A Maintain the volunteer warden C management network and reporting system General P Control litter on the site C Weekly checks year- management round General M Fixed point photography for A July – before hay management monitoring of site condition cut/topping General P Continue to involve the local C management community in management and monitoring, through the Green Gym and other voluntary groups Interpretation P Implement education strategy C and education Interpretation M Monitor external events C and education

Interpretation A Keep a record of attendance at C and education all organised events Interpretation A Keep copies of any press or C and education media coverage Interpretation A Provide interpretation for site C and education and individual features Interpretation A Continue to provide a varied A August – deadline for and education programme of events inclusion in events throughout the year leaflet Interpretation A Allow use of the site for C and education appropriate non-damaging events under licence Interpretation P Warden to provide informal C and education interpretation of site to visitors Interpretation A Keep notice boards up to date C and education with relevant information. Interpretation A Issue press releases for events C and education Interpretation M Monitor educational use of site C and education Interpretation M Monitor condition of C and education interpretation materials and update as necessary Public access M Monitor number of visitors to C site Public access M Carry out bi-annual visitor A Next survey 2013 survey Public access M Monitor level of car parking on C Cemetery Lane Public access M Monitor access from Castle C Gardens Queen’s P Commission architects to O Completed by 2016/17 Tower assess standing remains Queen’s P Works to preserve standing O Completed by 2016/17 Tower remains Scheduled M Control grazing pressure to C May - November ancient prevent damage to the monument earthworks Scheduled P Control vegetation inside A April - September ancient fenced areas around standing once a month. monument remains to provide a managed Use same “cared for” appearance. contractor for mowing paths

Scheduled M Monitor the site for damage to C Monitor weekly, ancient earthworks caused by other particularly when wet monument factors such as human pressure and grazing animals. Scheduled M Monitor the condition of the C ancient standing remains monument Scheduled P Use temporary electric fencing C As required in wet ancient to prevent cattle from weather monument poaching the wetland area in the moat Scheduled M Count clumps of frogspawn in A Feb/March ancient the moat monument Upper P Retain and manage parkland C Meadows trees Upper P Plant standard parkland trees x O inc tubes and stakes, Meadows 5 post and wire tree guards – Complete by Mar 2014 Upper P Minor tree surgery/minor O Willow adjacent to Meadows pollarding ditch/Thameside mansion – Complete by Mar 2014 Upper M Monitor growth and C Meadows establishment of hedges to inform timing of management Upper P Monitor state of Castle Lane C Meadows wall and commission repairs if necessary Upper M Graze between May and A Sward height 5cm - meadows and November 10cm in Nov Queen’s Arbour Upper M Monitor site for damage by C Periodically as required Meadows and rabbits and moles. Cull rabbits to prevent development Queen’s and moles as required. of burrows. Control Arbour carried out over winter (Dec - Feb) Victorian P Maintain existing planting C Parkland scheme and carry out Plantings necessary works to ensure public safety and health of trees Victorian M Monitor standing deadwood by C Parkland checking straps and stability of

Plantings trunks

Victorian M Monitor the lightning C Parkland conductor for strikes and Plantings replace fuse as necessary Victorian M Monitor health of new C Parkland plantings, particularly in dry Plantings conditions and water as necessary Victorian M Monitor bird/ bat boxes to C Parkland ensure fixings are secure Plantings Victorian M Carry out regular monitoring C Parkland for unsafe limbs, especially Plantings after windy/stormy conditions and take appropriate action as necessary Victorian P Carry out planting in A Oct - Feb Parkland accordance with the planting Plantings strategy Victorian pond P Manage one third of the pond A May/June and August/ periphery by strimming twice a September year (the western side) to provide a more formal area consistent with the original Victorian planting. Victorian pond M Monitor Snake’s-head Fritillary. A February/March Victorian pond P Frogspawn - lock gates into A February/March pond area and erect signs during spawning season Victorian pond P Erect signs warning of floods C when path underwater Victorian pond P Maintain viewing points from A Aug/September the path to the west of the pond enclosure Victorian pond P Manage the box hedging to A Aug/September the south of the pond so that it doesn’t encroach on the snake’s-head fritillaries Victorian pond M Monitor viewing platform and C steps in pond area for safety and undertake repairs as necessary Victorian pond M Count clumps of frogspawn A February/March also ditches and moat

10 Appendix 1 – Self Guided Trail Leaflet

Appendix 2 – Strategies

Wallingford Castle Meadows Interpretation Strategy

Theme “Wallingford Castle Meadows is a unique opportunity to discover Wallingford’s rich heritage and experience the special wildlife of lowland meadows in a beautiful peaceful outdoor environment on the banks of the Thames.”

Learning Objectives After visiting WCM, the majority of visitors will:

• Be able to navigate around the site using orientation devices. • Know that one of the largest, strongest, royal castles in Britain once stood here. • Understand that the site has over 1,000 years of history of people using it. • Know that the site is managed as a traditional hay meadow. • Understand why hay meadows are special and why they are threatened. • Understand that ditches and the pond are managed for wildlife. • Understand that the site is managed for wildlife, the scheduled ancient monument and the public in a fine balance. • Know that WCM is owned by SODC and managed by the Earth Trust following a management plan, which is available on the websites. • Understand that WCM is a part of the castle site, and ties in with Castle Gardens and the rest of the town.

Behavioural Objectives When visiting WCM, the majority of visitors will:

• Take care near water bodies. • Treat site resources with a sense of respect and stewardship. • Not climb on the standing remains, dig holes, cycle, set fires or litter on the site. • Want to visit the site again.

A smaller percentage of visitors will leave: • Wanting to join local efforts for historical research and preservation. • Wanting to visit Castle Gardens and Wallingford Museum to see and find out more. • Wanting to join the volunteer wardening scheme.

Emotional objectives After visiting WCM, the majority of visitors will:

• Feel that WCM is a pleasant site for quiet enjoyment. • Feel a sense of pride in Wallingford’s royal history and our efforts to preserve it. • Feel that lowland flood meadow is ‘special’ and worth preserving.

B2 O2

Site Index: H1

Site Name: Queen’s Tower.

Site Location: Top of bank above ditch (see map)

Site Description: Remaining fragment of curtain wall from the royal castle.

Interpretive significance: This is the only remaining known original fragment of the royal castle. The strategic significance of having a single wall here can be seen from this location.

Interpretive theme or topic: • One of the largest, strongest royal castles in Britain stood here • People have been using this site for 100’s of years.

Interpretive objectives: The majority of visitors will: • Treat this resource with respect and not climb on it. • Learn that one of the largest strongest royal castles in Britain stood here. • Know that this is the curtain wall, and what that means. • Understand why this site was chosen to build a castle. • Feel pride in Wallingford’s history and our efforts to preserve it. • Want to visit the museum or join TWHAS to learn more.

Interpretive media objectives: • An A1 interpretive panel located near the wall fragment with a view onto the flood plain. • Make this a stop on self-guided walk leaflet.

Site Index: H2

Site Name: ‘Other wall fragment’/ inner bailey.

Site Location: (see map)

Site Description: Wall fragment of unknown provenance, and inner bailey – heart of the castle in peacetime.

Interpretive significance: Visual chunk of wall. Inner bailey was where all the action happened in peacetime.

Interpretive theme or topic: • One of the largest strongest royal castles in Britain stood here. • People have been using this site for 100’s of years.

Interpretive objectives: The majority of visitors will: • Treat this resource with respect and not climb on it.

• Learn that one of the largest strongest royal castles in Britain stood here. • Learn about life inside the castle in peacetime and more recent history. • Learn about the 3 walls of the castle. • Feel pride in Wallingford’s history and our efforts to preserve it. • Want to visit the museum or join TWHAS to learn more.

Interpretive media objectives: • Make this a stop on self-guided walk leaflet.

Site Index: B1

Site Name: Victorian pond and ditches

Site Location: (see map)

Site Description: Victorian pond in ‘grotto’ with snowdrops, bluebells etc. Ditch running alongside.

Interpretive significance: Feature of site with safety issues. Managed for wildlife. Worked on by Green Gym to create access.

Interpretive theme or topic: • Take care near water. • Pond and ditches on the site are managed for wildlife. • People have been using this site for 100’s of years.

Interpretive objectives: The majority of visitors will: • Take care near water. • Learn that ponds and ditches on the site are managed for wildlife. • Understand the history of the pond and its relevance to the rest of the site. • Learn some of the plants/animals in the pond area. • Learn about the recent construction of the path & steps by the Green Gym.

Interpretive media objectives: • An interpretive panel located by pond. • Make this a stop on self-guided walk leaflet.

Site Index: H3

Site Name: North end of Upper meadows.

Site Location: (see map) Site Description: View down avenue of Victorian tree plantings.

Interpretive significance: Good view down ‘avenue’ of trees. Good opportunity to discuss planting strategy. 30

Interpretive theme or topic: • Understand that the site is managed for wildlife, history and people in a fine balance. • Understand that the site has 100’s of year’s history of people using it.

Interpretive objectives: The majority of visitors will: • Understand the history and scheme of the Victorian tree plantings. • Understand that in line with the management plan we are putting in new, young trees to replace older ones. • Understand the difference between native and exotic trees. • Feel a sense of respect and stewardship. • Feel pride in Wallingford’s history and our efforts to preserve it. • Understand some of the management of the older trees, value of older trees and value of deadwood.

Interpretive media objectives: • Make this a stop on self-guided walk leaflet.

Site Index: B2

Site Name: Lower Meadows

Site Location: Near Upper & Lower meadows link gate, in Lower Meadows (see map).

Site Description: Recreated wildflower meadows.

Interpretive significance: “Special scheme for recreating wildflower meadows”.

Interpretive theme or topic: • Know that the site is managed as a traditional hay meadow. • Understand why hay meadows are special and why they are disappearing. • Name 5 plants unique to hay meadows and understand that they are part of an ecosystem.

Interpretive objectives: The majority of visitors will: • Know that the site is managed as a traditional hay meadow. • Understand why hay meadows are special and why they are disappearing. • Leave the site with a sense of respect and stewardship. • Feel that lowland flood meadow is special and worth preserving. • Want to follow the rules, and feel good about doing so. • Want to help by joining volunteer warden scheme.

Interpretive media objectives:

• Make this a stop on self-guided walk leaflet.

Site Index: O1

Site Name: North Riverside Gate.

Site Location: North Riverside (see map).

Site Description: Entrance gate on Thames path.

Interpretive significance: Often a first contact point, especially with those walking on the Thames path.

Interpretive theme or topic: • Wallingford Castle Meadows is a unique opportunity to discover Wallingford’s rich heritage and experience the special wildlife of lowland meadows in a beautiful peaceful outdoor environment on the banks of the Thames.

Interpretive objectives: The majority of visitors will: • Be able to navigate around the site using orientation media. • Feel welcome. • Find out that WCM is owned by SODC, managed by Earth Trust following a management plan which is available on the websites. • Feel good about sticking to the rules and understand why they are in place. • Realise that Wallingford Castle Meadows is a unique opportunity to discover Wallingford’s rich heritage and experience the special wildlife of lowland meadows in a beautiful peaceful outdoor environment on the banks of the Thames

Interpretive media objectives: • An A1 interpretive panel in current location. • Orientation point on the leaflet.

Site Index: O2

Site Name: South Riverside Gate.

Site Location: South Riverside (see map).

Site Description: Entrance gate on Thames path.

Interpretive significance: Often a first contact point, especially with those walking on the Thames path.

Interpretive media objectives: • An A1 interpretive panel in current location. • Orientation point on the leaflet.

Site Index: O3

Site Name: Cemetery Lane Gate

Site Location: Cemetery Lane (see map)

Site Description: Entrance gate by parking area

Interpretive significance: Entrance gate by nearest parking area – used mostly by locals.

Interpretive media objectives: • An A1 interpretive panel in current location. • Orientation point on the leaflet – and one of the start points.

Site Index: O4

Site Name: Entrance on Castle Lane Bridge.

Site Location: Castle Lane Bridge (see map).

Site Description: Entrance from castle gardens, which also contains part of castle site.

Interpretive significance: Entrance from castle gardens, which also contains part of castle site.

Interpretive objectives: The majority of visitors will: • Be able to navigate around the site using orientation media. • Feel welcome. • Find out that WCM is owned by SODC, managed by Earth Trust following a management plan which is available on the websites. • Understand that WCM contains a part of the castle site, and ties in with Castle Gardens and the rest of town. • Feel good about sticking to the rules and understand why they are in place. • Realise that Wallingford Castle Meadows is a unique opportunity to discover Wallingford’s rich heritage and experience the special wildlife of lowland meadows in a beautiful peaceful outdoor environment on the banks of the Thames.

Interpretive media objectives: • An A1 interpretive panel in current location. • Orientation point on the leaflet.

Wallingford Castle Meadows Education Strategy

Philosophy

The mission of the Earth Trust is to:

• Educate and engage people in their local landscape and inspire them to take action to protect it. • Demonstrate sustainability in a way that integrates production from the land, wildlife habitats, and natural systems.

This philosophy makes the drafting of a formal Education Strategy for Wallingford Castle Meadows an important step in the overall strategic aims of the Earth Trust.

Introduction

Context

The Earth Trust already has longstanding relationships with many of the organisations that would benefit from this Education Strategy through its Education Department, Wild Waste Show, Energy Busters, and Countryside Stewardship programmes. We also have an ongoing working relationship with Wallingford Museum, who has collaborated on all of the interpretation materials for Wallingford Castle Meadows.

Limitations

The Earth Trust already delivers a programme of outdoor educational activities across a wide range of the curriculum either through its education centre at the Wittenham Clumps or through its outreach work with the Wild Waste Show and Energy Busters. A number of schools may feel that their environmental education requirements are already being met by this facility. The Wallingford Castle Meadows Education Strategy does not seek to duplicate or undermine this but to offer schools additional opportunities in the Wallingford area and to extend educational opportunities to other sections of the local community.

Aims

• To develop an education package in conjunction with Wallingford Museum. • To enhance the Wallingford School Countryside Stewardship programme by

working with them on their wildlife area within the school grounds. • To build on existing links with Fir Tree School, established during the planning and implementation of their Vegetable Garden, by working with them on their Wildlife Garden and to use Castle Meadows to extend this learning into the local environment. • To contact other local schools in Wallingford and the local area to establish how we can help them with their environmental education packages and outdoor learning. • To explore ways of working with South Oxfordshire Housing Association’s (SOHA) Young Peoples Project that enables them to fulfil their objectives of environmental stewardship and community involvement with the young people of Wallingford. • To continue facilitating the use of the site by Wallingford Army Cadets for field craft exercises.

Strategy

• Continue exploring opportunities for joint working with Wallingford Museum. This may be in the form of a half-day spent at the museum followed by a half- day of educational activities on site at Wallingford Castle Meadows delivered by the education team or by the warden. This would offer the opportunity to extend history or archaeology topics introduced in the museum or allow students to explore ecology and wildlife, or how land use has changed over time and how it is managed today. • Contact Wallingford School to discuss the possibility of working in their Wildlife Area. This will allow direct comparison of the two sites and more focused working on specific projects. Following discussions include sessions in the wildlife area in the new Countryside Stewardship programme. Alternatively investigate the option of setting up a “conservation club” either at lunchtimes or after school to include younger age groups and a wider range of pupils. • Liaise with contacts at Fir Tree School to discuss their requirements for their Wildlife Garden. Following discussions begin working with the school children in the Wildlife Garden or alternatively work in an advisory capacity. • Send out a preliminary letter to the four Wallingford primary schools and other local schools in the area to introduce Wallingford Castle Meadows. Establish whether we are able to assist them with any aspects of their curriculum or provide expertise to allow them to develop conservation opportunities within the school grounds. This may be in the form of assemblies, teacher inductions to the site, learning resources and printed materials, practical advice, site visits, or on- site educational activities etc. • Build on preliminary discussions with SOHA to develop a niche for the Earth Trust and Wallingford Castle Meadows within their Young People’s Project. • Contact Wallingford Army Cadets to find out when and how they are currently using the site and how we can help facilitate or develop this use further. Work with the cadets to foster a wider understanding of the site and the need to protect and respect it.

Outcomes

Benefits for children and young people • Increased awareness of and participation in their local environment • Opportunity to acquire new skills or improve existing ones, increasing confidence and self esteem

Benefits for local schools • Outdoor education opportunities within walking distance of the school • Opportunity to compare and contrast different sites • Opportunity for cross partnership working to develop or enhance school grounds

Benefits for partners • Enables Wallingford Museum to offer a wider learning experience in and out of the museum • Supports SOHA in the development and/or delivery of its Young Peoples Project

Benefits for the Earth Trust and South Oxfordshire District Council • Fosters a sense of environmental responsibility and ownership of Wallingford Castle Meadows within the local community. This in turn will help to deter vandalism and anti-social behaviour in the future • Enhances existing relationships with Earth Trust stakeholders • Gives a broader platform for the Earth Trust’s message

Monitoring and Evaluation

The Education Strategy is a working document. Reviews will take place every six months to determine how we are progressing against both the strategy and the outcomes. At this point the plan will be revised accordingly. Feedback from both recipients and partners will be crucial to this process.

Conclusion

The Wallingford Castle Meadows Education Strategy seeks to set out a feasible plan for educational opportunities at Wallingford Castle Meadows and lists potential partners to work with in delivering this plan. Existing relationships are built on and new ones developed to enable us to reach a wide section of the local community. This document should be considered open ended and can be added to or amended as new opportunities arise and are explored, or as current projects reach their natural conclusion.

Wallingford Castle Meadows – Tree Planting Strategy

The Wallingford Castle Meadows Management Plan states:

“The parkland landscape to the north of Wallingford Castle was singled out in the South Oxfordshire Landscape Assessment as a particular priority for maintenance and restoration.”

• Considerable detail of the plantings is visible on the 1876 Ordnance Survey 25inch map. • Replanting will need to be done skilfully to maintain character. • No detailed estate maps of the original full planting scheme appear to exist.

The objective in the management plan is to maintain the parkland landscape and historic landscape planting in favourable condition, where:

1. There is a good mixture of trees of different ages across the site. 2. The species composition of the parkland trees approximates to the

original planting scheme.

3. The pattern of landscape planting is maintained. 4. There is no deterioration in the visual quality or 'romantic' landscape feel of the site.

The purpose of this strategy is to look in some detail at the historic information related to the site, modern constraints and the wishes of site users to inform a Tree Strategy which will form the basis of future tree planting on the site.

Historic Information Considerable efforts were made to track down historic documentation and maps which may have thrown some light on the Hedges original tree planting schemes. The results of this research were however not conclusive. No formal plans or documentation seems to exist which show anything recognisable as a planting scheme. The various documents and maps which were discovered do provide some possible clues as to other features (such as an apparent avenue running N-S parallel to Castle Street) but nothing conclusive that helps to understand the original intensions behind the treescape which we see on site today.

Higher Level Stewardship The site is currently in the middle of a 10 year Higher Level Stewardship agreement. This puts certain constraints on the management of some areas. Tree planting in these areas will need to be in consultation with Natural England. If Natural England says no, planting in these areas will have to take place after 2021.

Public opinion In 2006 the visitor survey on the site asked the question: A new tree planting scheme is proposed for the site, would you prefer:

% of respondents answering ‘yes’ Native trees 77 Exotic trees 0 A mixture of native and exotic trees 13 No opinion on the tree planting 10 Other, please state: In keeping with heritage of site Prefer broadleaf/deciduous

From the management plan objectives, it is clear that the maintenance of the current planting patterns and species composition is an important consideration. To achieve this, plantings will need to start now and be spaced into the future to create the desired age structure across the site.

Other considerations There are concerns about trees being planted within the area of the SAM. However, English Heritage has granted consent for replacement planting within the SAM in the past on the basis that if there were no replanting then there would eventually be no trees on SAM sites. So although planting in the area of the SAM is limited the aim should be to allow for replacement of existing tree stock as and when it begins to deteriorate.

Strategy (Please refer to the attached map for further details.)

1. Replacement planting should be carried out on SAM in advance of trees dying. Species will be similar to those currently present except where these species may no longer be considered most suitable due factors such as climate change or disease susceptibility. All plantings in this area will have to be subject to Ancient Monuments consent.

2. The pond area is bound by light considerations, so there will be no planting here for the time being.

3. The ditches have few constraints except considerations for water voles (?), ideal planting here would be widely spaced standard trees. Species choice will be composed primarily of native standards.

4. Small triangle at northern end of UM3: This area has been planted as a copse. The intention here will be to replace any failures as they occur and eventually utilise the area as a working copse for the production of materials for craft courses at the Earth Trust.

5. The boundary of compartment U3 will be reinforced with a line of standards – a mixture of spp. including exotics would lend itself to this.

6. U3 – the ‘avenue’ – The 2 sequoia at the northern end need regular monitoring as they may need replacing in time. 8. A new oak will be added to the southern end of the existing line of oaks in compartment U3.

9. Lower meadows – The existing clumps of trees here are in decline and these will be reinforced with new planting. This is HLS dependant. In 2001/2 a number of new black poplar were planted on the lower meadows and it is the intention to add a few more to this to provide good new landscape trees (up to a maximum of four additional trees). Wide spaced planting of native trees will be carried out along the northern boundary of Kings Meadow. Numbers will be limited in order to ensure views up the river along the meadows are not compromised.

Native copse berry rich

Wide spaced Boundary standards reinforce d row of standards Reinforced clump

add a Reinforced clump new oak to Wide spaced existing avenue standards on ditches

Standards dotted about Dead Sequoia needs replanting

Reinforce d clump

Replacement planting in ad vance of trees dying in SAM

Standards ted about