To mark the Council for British Archaeology’s Festival of Archaeology, HS2 are holding a series of free online events so you can get involved and find out more about what treasures are being unearthed as they build the country’s new high speed railway. The Festival of Archaeology runs from 17 July to 1 August, shining a light on our past and how our ancestors lived.
Subjects covered in the free online ‘webinars’ include:
- The archaeology of the Chilterns
- St James’ burial ground
- Hillingdon’s hidden history
- Doddershall
- Coleshill built heritage
- Curzon Street
- Innovations in archaeology
- Uncovering the landscapes of HS2
HS2 will also be holding their fourth weekend of open days at their Field Museum at St Mary’s Church in Stoke Mandeville on Saturday 24 July and Sunday 25 July. Inside a specially constructed tent the size of a football pitch, archaeologists working on HS2’s behalf are currently excavating the remains of the former parish church of St. Mary the Virgin. This is a once in a generation opportunity to excavate the ruins of a medieval church and churchyard. Inside the museum you can ascend the viewing platform for a bird’s eye view of ongoing excavations, as well as displays, films and finds to explore the history of St. Mary’s Church and the amazing archaeological discoveries in the surrounding area. Visitors are welcome to explore this fascinating excavation, where they can learn about life and death in Stoke Mandeville over more than 800 years.
Tickets are available to book from 10am on Tuesday 13 July and booking will close at 5pm on Thursday 22 July. Visit HS2’s events page to view details and book your tickets. Detailed joining instructions including HS2’s Health and Safety statement will be sent to all registered attendees closer to the time.