A major new publication is bringing together more than fifty years of archaeological investigation at Fulham Palace, revealing over 10,000 years of human activity beneath one of London’s most significant historic sites.
Published by Fulham Palace Trust and PCA, This Land of 50 Hides presents the first complete history of Fulham Palace and its grounds. Written by Fulham Palace Community Archaeologist Alexis Haslam, it combines archaeological discoveries with documentary research to trace the site’s story from prehistory to the present day.
Drawing on decades of excavation, specialist analysis and documentary research, the publication explores evidence for prehistoric communities, Roman farming, Anglo-Saxon settlement and Viking-era activity, as well as Fulham Palace’s long association with the Bishops of London.
Among the many discoveries featured are London’s earliest known turkey bones, a medieval pike measuring over a metre in length, and one of the capital’s largest assemblages of prehistoric worked flint.
PCA has worked at Fulham Palace for many years, with our archaeologists, specialists and graphics team contributing to the excavation, research, interpretation, illustration, design and publication of the site’s archaeology. This Land of 50 Hides represents the culmination of that long-standing collaboration, bringing together decades of work in a single accessible volume.
The publication will be launched at a public event at Fulham Palace on Thursday 6 August, where author Alexis Haslam will discuss the discoveries that have transformed our understanding of the site and the research behind the book.
This Land of 50 Hides is a fitting celebration of one of London’s most important historic sites, and we’re proud to have been part of the project.
The development of Fulham Palace and its moat, from prehistory to the 20th century
The ancient holm oak adjacent to the walled garden at Fulham Palace
