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Archaeologists have been excavating the ruins of New Place, Shakespeare’s former home, and dig up what may have been the 16th century poet’s cesspool.

The team, led by Birmingham Archaeology, uncovered fragments of pottery and broken clay pipe from a muddy hole which they believed to be a cesspool used by the playwright.

Dr Diana Owen, Director of the Shakespeare Birthplace Trust, which owns the site, said: “We do not know if the knot garden was an area used by Shakespeare – it may have been a yard simply used by his servants.

“But this could actually yield some fantastic results, especially if it was an area where rubbish was thrown or the cesspit was located.”

Kevin Colls, from Birmingham Archaeology, added: “Through documentary evidence we know Shakespeare lived at New Place but we have very little information regarding the layout of the house and gardens at this time.

“Through archaeological fieldwork, in particular the excavation of structural remains and the recovery of artefacts, we hope to fill in the blanks.

“Even the smallest sherd of broken pottery has the potential for giving us tantalising glimpses into the life of Shakespeare such as what he liked to eat and drink.”

The excavation at New Place will last until October. Experts hope to unearth evidence to support theories that Shakespeare wrote many of his most famous works at the property.