21 Jan 2021
The Dig…into England's Archaeological Offering
As we remain indoors, we look to the big screen to offer us entertainment, and escapism and we're excited to hear Netflix's next offering will allow us to indulge in English countryside and discover our rich archaeological past.
The Dig premiering 29 January tells the story behind the remarkable finds at one of England's most treasured archaeologic sites, Sutton Hoo. With some of the scenes shot in Suffolk, the film highlights the beauty of Suffolk countryside. Starring Ralph Fiennes, Carey Mulligan and Lily James, is based on John Preston's novel of the same name. Fiennes plays Basil Brown, the amateur archaeologist who uncovered an extensive collection of Anglo-Saxon artefacts, which helped to shape the world's understanding of medieval Europe.
England's landscape is full of archaeological sites and ancient relics from well-known Neolithic sites like Stonehenge and Avebury, to Roman roads, Saxon hoards and Viking burial sites. We've rounded up England's top sites and experiences to delve into, uncover our rich history and culture when we can get outdoors, travel again and explore more.
Celebrating England's Archaeology
Festival of Archaeology – this year marks and 30th year of the festival held by the Council for British Archaeology, a collection of events designed to inspire people to delve into the country's history. The festival takes place in museums, heritage organisations and other societies across the country offering many events to give you an insight to England's archaeological past.
For further information: www.festival.archaeologyuk.org/ (2021 dates tbc.)
Sutton Hoo, The British Museum, London /Sutton Hoo Estate in Suffolk
Representing Britain's – and even Europe's – most impressive archaeological find, the incredible Anglo-Saxon royal burial site at Sutton Hoo unearthed an abundance of medieval treasures. In 1939, an amateur archaeologist discovered a burial mound featuring the imprint of a 27-metre long boat, complete with a central chamber containing the possessions of an Anglo-Saxon king, whose exact identity remains a mystery. Alongside swords, feasting vessels and silverware from the distant Byzantine empire, archaeologists uncovered an unusual 'human mask' helmet – one of only four from the period to survive to this day – as well as gold buckles, coins and other artefacts. Many of the treasures are now on display at the British Museum in London, while it's also possible to explore the 255-acre Sutton Hoo Estate in Suffolk.
www.britishmuseum.org/collection/death-and-memory/anglo-saxon-ship-burial-sutton-hoo
www.nationaltrust.org.uk/sutton-hoo/features/digging-the-dirt-the-true-story-behind-the-dig
The Roman Baths – Bath Council
In the centre of Bath and dating back to the first few decades of the Roman occupation of Britain in around 60-70AD, the Roman Baths provide a unique glimpse into life during that period. The remains of the vast Roman temple and bath house once formed part of a small settlement known as Aquae Sulis. The Great Bath is fed by hot spa water, while the changing facilities feature an early version of an underfloor heating system called a hypocaust – highly advanced technology at the time. The site offers history buffs the chance to learn about the numerous archaeological finds from the region, including the Beau Street Hoard, a set of more than 17,000 Roman coins found in the city. With work underway to convert the former spa buildings (date to be confirmed), unlocking previously unseen areas of the Roman Bath, there's even more reason to visit. You can also explore the site from home with online tours, videos and a 3D model of the Roman baths and Pump Room. www.romanbaths.co.uk www.romanbaths.co.uk/3d-model-roman-baths-and-pump-room www.romanbaths.co.uk/archway
Greyfriars, Leicester
Once a thriving medieval monastery, the site at Greyfriars also has an important royal connection. It was here, following excavations under a car park in Leicester in 2012, that the grave of Richard III was found – the last English king killed in battle, at Bosworth Field in 1485. The friary, first developed in the early 13th century, is now a protected scheduled monument, while the visitor centre at the site explores the quest to find and identify him. www.kriii.com/3
Vindolanda, Hadrian's Wall, Northumberland
Telling the tale of the Roman frontier at Hadrian's Wall, Vindolanda acted as a vital garrison base throughout their time in Britain. Regular excavations uncover new finds year after year, helping to piece together the region's impressive history, many of these are displayed at the museum at the site. Set amid striking Northumberland countryside and featuring the remains of a bath house, barrack buildings and a religious temple. Relics discovered at the site include a set of wooden writing tablets, considered to be Britain's oldest remaining examples of texts written by hand, alongside an array of coins, pottery and weaponry. https://www.vindolanda.com/
Bignor Roman Villa – West Sussex
Located in the centre of the South Downs National Park, the remains of Bignor Roman Villa help to capture the imagination. Found in 1811 when it was hit by a plough, the rural villa's exquisite mosaic floors survive to this day, showcasing the incredible craftsmanship of the era. Dating to around the 2nd century, excavations have revealed jewellery, pottery and a baby burial at the site. Stane Street Roman Road, a route linking London to Chichester, can be found a short distance to the south-east, one of many walking and hiking trails to explore. www.bignorromanvilla.co.uk/
London Mithraeum – London
Once home to the Roman temple of Mithras, the London Mithraeum sits in the heart of the City as part of Bloomberg's European Headquarters, close to St Paul's Cathedral. Archaeological excavations during construction for the building in 2012 unveiled a collection of incredible artefacts, many of which are displayed in the London Mithraeum Bloomberg SPACE – a museum and reconstruction of the temple that exists just 100 metres from its original site, featuring immersive experiences, documenting the history of Roman London.
Portchester Castle, Hampshire
Standing proudly overlooking Portsmouth Harbour, Portchester Castle has provided a striking defensive position on England's south coast since the 3rd century. Initially a Roman fort – used to fend off Saxon invaders, finishing up as a castle and vast royal residence, it is regarded as one of the best-preserved Roman forts in northern Europe.
www.english-heritage.org.uk/visit/places/portchester-castle/
Jorvik Viking Centre – York
Excavations in the 1970s at Coppergate in York uncovered a vast array of Viking artefacts from around 1,000 years ago. The site is now home to the Jorvik Viking Centre, which takes you on a journey back in time to explore life in that period. Some 40,000 objects were unearthed during the dig, including everything from shoes and shields to weapons, coins and pottery, all of which have been lovingly preserved by the York Archaeological Trust. The centre's immersive experience delves into the dig itself and features reconstructions of the houses, workshops and streets of the Viking-age city of Jorvik, as it was all those centuries ago. www.jorvikvikingcentre.co.uk/
Visitors are advised to always check individual websites for the latest information, as events and openings are subject to change. National restrictions are currently in place and attractions are closed. Check out www.visitengland.com for the latest guidance.
For more inspiration check out visitengland.com/escape and follow @visitengland on social channels #VisitEngland #EscapeTheEveryday
For ways to Escape the Everyday at Home head to www.visitengland.com/things-do-to-at-home-bored
For further press information please contact the VisitEngland PR team:
Louise Ferrall / Claire Keenan / Patrycja Woda
Email: vepr@visitengland.org or visit media.visitengland.com
