Antique Limestone Trough

An antique limestone trough from near Winchcombe, Gloucestershire, on two tapered limestone supports. This trough was dug out of the ground at the top of Gretton Hill many years ago and is probably an ancient trough. There is some uncertainty about its original use but our best guess is that it captured water from a spring to provide a drinking trough for farm animals, especially sheep. With it's organic shape and heavily weathered surfaces, it certainly appears to be a very old trough and it makes a lovely garden feature whether planted with alpines or left unplanted. 

NB. At the moment this trough does not hold water permanently. 

At least 18th century, probably much earlier.