Pupils from Hingham Primary School recently joined our team on site to see the archaeology emerging ahead of Abel Homes’ new development in the town. The visit gave them a close look at the archaeology beneath their feet and a chance to handle artefacts uncovered during the excavation.
A landscape shaped over centuries
Our work at Hingham has revealed evidence of activity from the Iron Age through to the medieval period. So far, the team has identified elements of a Roman field system and enclosure, along with the foundations of a medieval windmill. Together, these features show how the landscape here has been used and reshaped over many centuries.
During their visit, the pupils examined a range of finds, including an Iron Age loom weight, Roman pottery and medieval nails and building material.
They were also able to watch as a Roman pot, discovered only the previous day, was carefully excavated from its pit. Seeing this process in real time is something most people of any age never get to witness.
Sharing the site with the community
Visits like this form an important part of development-led archaeology. Before new homes are built, the excavation allows us to record the evidence preserved in the ground, and sharing that work helps local residents understand the history of the place they live.
Kelvin Grimes, Land Manager at Abel Homes, said:
“This was a great opportunity to show the children actual pieces of history from their home town. The archaeological excavation, and recording the artefacts found on the site, are an important precursor to building the new homes, and it is always nice to share what we have found with local children so that they can better understand where they live.”
See the visit for yourself
This short film captures the pupils exploring the site, handling finds from different periods, and discovering how archaeology uncovers the story of a landscape.
In the news
The visit was also covered in the Eastern Daily Press, highlighting both the significance of the discoveries and the enthusiasm of the pupils who came to see them.
