Between 2004 and 2007 the University of Manchester Archaeological Unit and Royton Local History Society began excavating the site of the former Royton Hall. These are some photos I took in 2006 whilst the dig was taking place.

An excellent and detailed article on Royton Hall can be found on the Royton Local History Society’s website.

These pictures show the archaeologists digging around what remains of the cellar areas of the building.

This fascinating old plate was found which shows a boy with his dog on his way to school titled ” GOING TO SCHOOL” and a little rhyme.

“The satchel on his back you see, The first in school the last to flee, And says he’ll ne’er a Truant be”

After the dig the site was carefully covered up and left for future posterity and a plaque has been put on the site, just off Hall Street in Royton.