Online resources
Here are some links to landscape history resources recently recommended by our Information Officer:
Ritual use of cheese at Durrington Walls
Archaeological analysis has revealed that pottery in ceremonial areas at Durrington Walls, a Neolithic henge in Wiltshire, contains the residue of dairy products, whereas pottery in nearby residential areas contains meat residue.
https://digventures.com/2015/10/cheese-was-food-of-the-gods-in-neolithic-britain/?mc_cid=c6fe5e42c1&mc_eid=fc106e6893
Chester’s ‘mysterious’ past makes it one of Britain’s most haunted cities – or does it??
Chester has snagged the number one spot as the UK’s most welcoming city in Booking.com’s annual Traveller Review Awards – but it’s also been voted one of Britain’s most haunted cities, albeit by only 15% of 2,000 survey respondents.
https://www.cheshire-live.co.uk/news/chester-cheshire-news/chesters-mysterious-past-makes-one-31127037?utm_source=cheshire_live_newsletter&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=morning_daily_newsletter&utm_content=&utm_term=&ruid=fee879e0-f9b7-4c6f-8ca5-a9fa64e03ff9&hx=84ce638986bc73b191ec0774c05a547009942838093c58c9450b62a0b824de21
Please scroll down for links to previously recommended sources.
More online resources
How to identify Neolithic monuments
Photos, descriptions and bullet-pointed lists of the typical features of Neolithic long barrows, round barrows, causewayed enclosures, passage tombs, cursuses and henges
https://digventures.com/2025/02/how-to-identify-neolithic-monuments/?mc_cid=c6fe5e42c1&mc_eid=fc106e6893
Hoard of silver Roman coins found in Norfolk
The hoard consists of sixteen silver denarii. The earliest coin was minted around 57 BC and the newest – which depicts Emperor Marcus Aurelius – in AD 175 or 176. The date range of over 200 years indicates that Roman currency was relatively stable during that period, since the early coins were not melted down to make newer ones.
https://www.livescience.com/archaeology/romans/hoard-of-silver-roman-coins-found-in-uk-and-some-date-to-reign-of-marcus-aurelius
Wirral’s listed buildings
Photos and brief descriptions of 32 structures recently given listed status, among them churches, pubs, a former town hall, the Royal Liverpool Golf Clubhouse, an Edward VII postbox, a sandstone wall, cast-iron street and hydrant signs, air-raid shelters, Arts and Crafts houses, a bear pit, a ticket office, and a rare Lucy box (enclosing electrical boosting facilities).
https://www.liverpoolecho.co.uk/news/liverpool-news/gallery/32-unique-old-buildings-structures-31080942
Film of Chester in 1931
Ninety years after being made, this fascinating film of Chester was colorized in 2021.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ADMwM-SdjDM
Largest Viking Age building in Britain found in Cumbria
Located near Silloth, the building is 165 ft long by 50ft wide. Carbon dating indicates that it was built between AD 990 and 1040 and was unrelated to a nearby twelfth-century Cistercian monastery. https://archaeology.org/news/2025/02/21/archaeologists-excavate-largest-viking-age-building-in-britain/
The world’s oldest surviving homes
Slide show of homes in Britain, Continental Europe, Asia and the Americas which remain in use hundreds of years after being built.
https://www.loveexploring.com/gallerylist/102668/the-oldest-homes-in-the-world-still-standing
13th-century coin hoard found in Cheshire
Found by metal detectorists searching in the Whitegate and Marton area with the landowner’s permission, the hoard of 69 coins consisted of 63 depicting Edward I (King of England 1272-1307), three of Alexander III (King of Scotland 1249-1286), and three other European coins described as ‘imitation pennies’.
https://www.chesterstandard.co.uk/news/24993687.medieval-coin-hoard-13th-century-found-whitegate-marton/?ref=ebln&nid=1543&block=article_block_a&u=d4c9d445a11ca3b4d5080d09710dae3e&date=100325
Maritime wrecks in protection zones off the coast of North Wales
Photographs and descriptions of six wrecks, the earliest of which dates from the 17 century.
https://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/north-wales-news/secret-wrecks-north-wales-protection-31000739?IYA-reg=76f0b7bd-acc7-413c-8f5a-cb891d809460&utm_campaign=Daily-1622025&utm_medium=email&utm_source=IYA-DailyDigest&utm_term=news-link&source=email&sourceUserIid=76f0b7bd-acc7-413c-8f5a-cb891d809460
Importance of preserving unprotected peatlands
If drainage of peatlands, bogs and swamps continues, the carbon dioxide released could raise global warming to irretrievably dangerous levels. These crucial ecosystems currently occupy just 3% of land worldwide, yet contain more carbon than the forests of the entire globe, prevent flooding, reduce the risk of drought, and provide habitats for a vast panoply of plant and animal species.
https://www.theguardian.com/environment/2025/feb/13/worlds-largely-unprotected-peatlands-are-ticking-carbon-bomb-warns-study
The Secrets of Grim’s Ditch
Paul Whitewick explores and explains ancient man-made contours in the landscape as part of his YouTube series about Britain’s mystery lines.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=buvTD2HV6dc
Motte and Bailey Castles
Photographs and brief descriptions of several castles in England and Wales, plus a modern European reconstruction of an early motte and bailey design.
https://englandexplore.com/motte-and-bailey-castles/?utm_source=ActiveCampaign&utm_medium=email&omhide=true
Evidence of Iron Age chariot found in Wales
A bridle-bit and terret ring typical of the gear used by Ancient Celts to hitch a horse to a chariot were uncovered at an airfield in 2024 by military personnel and veterans. Thought to be part of the Llyn Cerrig Bach hoard originally discovered in the 1940s, and declared to be treasure by the Senior Coroner for Wales, the artefacts are destined to go on show at Oriel Môn in Anglesey.
https://www.popularmechanics.com/science/archaeology/a63773134/chariot-horse-bridle/?source=nl&utm_source=nl_pop&utm_medium=email&date=021325&utm_campaign=nl01_021325_HBU38550557&oo=&user_email=84ce638986bc73b191ec0774c05a547009942838093c58c9450b62a0b824de21&GID=84ce638986bc73b191ec0774c05a547009942838093c58c9450b62a0b824de21&utm_term=TEST-%20NEW%20TEST%20-%20Sending%20List%20-%20AM%20180D%20Clicks%2C%20NON%20AM%2090D%20Opens%2C%20Both%20Subbed%20Last%2030D
The inside of Herculaneum scrolls can be seen for first time in almost 2,000 years
Technological developments have enabled papyrus scrolls found at Herculaneum to be virtually unfolded. One of the first words to be deciphered was the Ancient Greek word for ‘disgust’.
https://www.bodleian.ox.ac.uk/about/media/feb25/herculaneum-scroll?dm_i=7QRX,DTSF,379DBI,1F0TG,1
The challenge to find out more is ongoing:
https://scrollprize.org/
Bayeux Tapestry aids archaeological discovery
By cross-matching an Anglo-Saxon latrine with a scene in the Bayeux Tapestry, archaeologists have been able to identify the exact site of King Harold II’s home in Bosham before the Norman invasion of 1066.
https://www.gbnews.com/science/bayeux-tapestry-mystery-lost-site-found-king-harold-bosham
Medieval toilets
Medieval expert Jason Kingley OBE explains how different strata of medieval society dealt with human waste.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4FQrDMDTVSQ
Sutton Hoo helmet may indicate that Anglo-Saxons fought as mercenaries for the Byzantine Empire
It’s now been hypothesised that a military campaign against Sasanian Persians – rather than trade – was the source of some of the artefacts found in the Sutton Hoo burial.
https://www.livescience.com/archaeology/famous-sutton-hoo-helmet-may-be-clue-that-early-anglo-saxons-fought-as-mercenaries-for-byzantine-empire-study-suggests?utm_term=45CAB862-7568-43AB-A667-BD7298D261D3&lrh=84ce638986bc73b191ec0774c05a547009942838093c58c9450b62a0b824de21&utm_campaign=368B3745-DDE0-4A69-A2E8-62503D85375D&utm_medium=email&utm_content=D88EA8BD-89B3-4E1C-8D1D-3F5C10FDFA02&utm_source=SmartBrief
11th-century silver coin hoard
The remains of a cloth and lead pouch containing 321 silver coins in mint condition has been found in Suffolk. The coins, dated between 1036 and 1044, were produced during the reign of Edward the Confessor.
https://www.livescience.com/archaeology/i-was-shaking-when-i-first-unearthed-it-11th-century-silver-coin-hoard-unearthed-in-england?utm_term=45CAB862-7568-43AB-A667-BD7298D261D3&lrh=84ce638986bc73b191ec0774c05a547009942838093c58c9450b62a0b824de21&utm_campaign=368B3745-DDE0-4A69-A2E8-62503D85375D&utm_medium=email&utm_content=275C55DD-B107-450A-80CC-5BD5C9ABA45A&utm_source=SmartBrief
Edward I’s ‘ring of iron’ castles
Photos, brief descriptions and a map of the following castles built at the instigation of King Edward I as part of his campaign to annex Wales, and listed in the order in which the construction of each began: Flint (1277), Hawarden (1277), Rhuddlan (1277), Builth (1277), Aberystwyth (1277), Denbigh (1283), Caernarfon (1283), Conwy (1283), Harlech (1283), Beaumaris (1295).
https://englandexplore.com/edward-i-ring-of-iron-castles/?utm_source=ActiveCampaign&utm_medium=email&omhide=true&utm_campaign=Britcastlesposts#google_vignette
King Arthur’s Hall is over 5,000 years old
Excavations on Bodmin Moor in Cornwall have revealed that a rectangular structure which has traditionally been associated with the legendary King Arthur is, in fact, Neolithic. This means it was in existence at least 4,500 years before the first accounts of King Arthur were in circulation.
https://www.livescience.com/archaeology/medieval-king-arthur-site-is-4-000-years-older-than-we-thought
The Dark Age kingdom that divided Britain
This 11-minute video presented by Paul Whitewick provides an introduction to the effect of the kingdom of Hwicce on the landscape and territories of southern Britain.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=V0LWQrqnUuU
UK’s deepest mine
Boulby Mine under the North Yorkshire Moors is 1,400m deep in places. It’s home to an underground laboratory and provides 350,000 tonnes of rock salt annually from deposits laid down 250 million years ago, as well as other commodities, such as potash.
https://www.liverpoolecho.co.uk/news/uk-world-news/gallery/inside-uks-deepest-mine-half-30699718
Set: The history of concrete
Fascinating evolution of a vital building material.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rwb8S1SiGCA
Harvington Hall
This Tudor manor house near Kidderminster in Worcestershire boasts the second-highest number of priest holes in the United Kingdom.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CQUq37DSRFo
Dig Ventures’ best archaeology discoveries in 2024
Photos and descriptions of eight finds from a wide range of periods.
https://digventures.com/2024/12/our-best-archaeology-discoveries-2024/
The oldest rocks on Earth
Geological specimens ranging in age from 3.5 to 4.4 billion years old are scattered across the planet. Brief descriptions and photographs of examples from Australia, North America, Africa, Asia, Europe and Antarctica are supplemented by a map.
https://www.livescience.com/planet-earth/geology/the-oldest-rocks-on-earth
Plant life on limestone pavements
The ecosystem fostered by clints and grikes in Yorkshire.
https://theconversation.com/the-secret-world-of-plants-living-in-our-limestone-pavements-243211?utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=The%20Weekend%20Conversation%20-%203211432770&utm_content=The%20Weekend%20Conversation%20-%203211432770+CID_2f1044d81aa361f2c838c6a16d685615&utm_source=campaign_monitor_uk&utm_term=The%20secret%20world%20of%20plants%20living%20in%20our%20limestone%20pavements
Great Heathen [Viking] Army’s influence in England: new evidence
About fifty new sites associated with Viking presence in England have been identified.
https://www.theguardian.com/science/2024/dec/21/newly-uncovered-sites-reveal-true-power-of-great-viking-army-in-britain
Sixth-century sword found in Anglo-Saxon cemetery in Kent
The high-status sword has a blade inscribed with runes, an intricately patterned silver and gilt hilt, and a pommel featuring a ring. The fragmentary scabbard, made from leather and wood, has a lining of beaver fur. A gold pendant inscribed with a dragon (or possibly a serpent) was found inside the same grave.
https://www.express.co.uk/news/uk/1993326/archaeology-breakthrough-ancient-sword-kent
Amazing underwater landscape and ecosystem
A layer of freshwater teeming with microorganisms lies beneath the ice-covered surface of Lake Enigma in Antarctica.
https://www.msn.com/en-gb/entertainment/news/scientists-peered-into-a-secret-antarctic-lake-hidden-beneath-the-ice-and-uncovered-a-never-before-seen-ecosystem/ar-AA1wf5gF?ocid=nl_article_link
A tour of Christmas through the ages, courtesy of Historic UK
Not entirely landscape-history-orientated, but sometimes celebrating the season just has to be done!
https://mailchi.mp/historic-uk/septembers-history-roundup-13844651?e=5e06f3541c
Luxury Roman villa discovered in Wiltshire
The villa is thought to have been the hub of a vast agricultural estate. The complex included a bath house, mosaics featuring geometric designs and a multi-storey barn.
https://archaeologymag.com/2024/11/roman-villa-discovered-in-wiltshires-chalke-valley/
Database of country houses in Britain and Ireland
Photos, location maps and summaries of hundreds of historic houses. After clicking on the entry of your choice, its worth scrolling down the page for additional information about architects, history, collections, owners, publications and screen appearances.
https://www.thedicamillo.com/house-database/
Hoard of coins found during building work in Worcestershire
The hoard consists of 1,368 coins. The majority are silver denarii, minted in Rome during the reign of the Emperor Nero (AD 54-68). There is also a solid gold stater minted for the local Dubonni tribe, probably sometime around AD 20-45.
https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/articles/c4gxnjq3ye0o#:~:text=The%20treasure%2C%20consisting%20of%201%2C368,at%20more%20than%20%C2%A3100%2C000
Nature takes over an abandoned military island in Scotland
18-minute film showcasing the seals, seabirds, spiders, owls and plantlife that live alongside derelict military installations on the island of Inchkeith in the Firth of Forth.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bMK-mTnkyK8
Recently rediscovered Neolithic stone circles
Located on Dartmoor, the two stone circles may have been part of a ‘sacred arc’.
https://www.livescience.com/archaeology/2-stone-age-circles-discovered-on-english-moorland-may-have-been-part-of-a-sacred-arc
What happened after the end of Roman rule in Britain?
This account by Historic England draws on documentary sources, archaeological discoveries, photographs and reconstruction illustrations.
https://heritagecalling.com/2024/11/28/what-happened-after-the-end-of-roman-rule-in-britain/
How hillfort dwellers obtained water
With the aid of clues yielded by LiDAR surveys, James Walks in History explores Bratton Camp Hillfort near Westbury in Wiltshire to demonstrate how dew ponds dug into the ramparts of the fort and run-off from the roofs of round houses on top of it are likely to have supplied the needs of those based there. Fascinating 9-minute video with optional subtitles.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AH03EcD5X_M
The Ridgeway
The current official route of The Ridgeway stretches from Overton Hill in Wiltshire to Beacon Hill in Hertfordshire; but the presenter, Paul Whitewick, showcases evidence which suggests that 5,000 years ago it was much longer, running from the Dorset coast through the now-submerged Doggerland towards north-western mainland Europe. Mary-Ann Ochota, who has previously given two excellent talks to CLSH, features in the 13-minute video.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IO2eEGARfms
Anglo-Saxon remains in surprising places
Photos and info about surviving buildings and artistic treasures from all seven of the Anglo-Saxon heptarchs: Sussex, Essex, Wessex, Kent, East Anglia, Mercia and Northumbria.
https://forums.canadiancontent.net/threads/how-the-remains-of-anglo-saxon-england-can-be-seen-in-the-most-surprising-places.140137/
How to date a hedge
15-minute video which demonstrates how documentary evidence, citizen science and the Hooper Equation (110 x number of tree species counted in a 30-yard section of the hedge + 30) made it possible to determine that a hedge in Buckinghamshire is 1,121 years old.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YIg9ScsFXOs
What happens when you set a river free
The National Trust removed man-made alterations to the course of a river in Somerset to see what would happen. Within a year, historic wetlands had regenerated, allowing flora and fauna to flourish and reducing flooding in nearby villages. The trial has been so successful that, while not appropriate everywhere, similar methods may be employed by the NT in other suitable areas.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Qp7K6pEWEuk
Measuring up the mega and mini henges of Neolithic Britain
Photos and descriptions of Durrington Walls, Mount Pleasant, King Arthur’s Round Table, Hindwell Roman Fort site, and the following henges: Marden, Wilsford, Bush Barrow, Thornborough, Mayburgh, and Flagstones.
https://members.ancient-origins.net/neolithic-henges
The origin of English place-names
Short introduction on YouTube.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=98x_xMBk7zI
Lost builders of the Middle Ages: Craftsmen of Hereford
25-minute presentation focusing on skilfully crafted architectural features of Hereford’s medieval buildings.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZBt-1ChCPiw
Possible ‘mega fort’ found in Wales hints at tension between Celts and Romans
The area is has the typical playing-card shape of a Roman fort and is believed to have measured roughly 185 by 155 metres, though more research is needed to confirm a definite Roman link.
https://www.livescience.com/archaeology/romans/possible-mega-fort-found-in-wales-hints-at-tension-between-romans-and-celtics?utm_term=45CAB862-7568-43AB-A667-BD7298D261D3&lrh=84ce638986bc73b191ec0774c05a547009942838093c58c9450b62a0b824de21&utm_campaign=368B3745-DDE0-4A69-A2E8-62503D85375D&utm_medium=email&utm_content=46EF393D-2B26-4B1E-AE7C-FB475DCE1983&utm_source=SmartBrief
Heritage protection for a newly discovered Roman town in Cambridgeshire
Archaeological features include the remains of streets and buildings, pottery, metal and shell objects, indicating that both domestic and industrial activities occurred in the settlement, which has been described by Historic England as ‘a significant Roman town’.
https://historicengland.org.uk/whats-new/in-your-area/east-of-england/cambridgeshire-roman-town-given-protection/?utm_medium=email&utm_source=newsletter&utm_campaign=news
Nature across twice the area of Manchester restored by National Trust
Blanket bog, wood pasture and parkland, meadows, lowland woodland and upland heaths are among the habitats restored or created in a 10-year project begun in 2015 and accomplished ahead of schedule.
https://www.darlingtonandstocktontimes.co.uk/news/national/24551019.national-trust-restores-nature-across-area-twice-size-manchester/#:~:text=National%20Trust%20restores%20nature%20across%20area%20twice%20the%20size%20of%20Manchester,-56%20mins%20ago&text=The%20National%20Trust%20has%20hit,twice%20the%20size%20of%20Manchester.4
Compton Wynyates
Photos and information about a Tudor house built by Sir William Compton and visited in 1526 by his most famous childhood friend: King Henry VIII.
https://thetudortravelguide.com/compton-wynyates-the-most-perfect-and-inaccessible-tudor-house-in-england/
Bronze Age burial chamber found on Dartmoor
Lined with granite, the chamber contained the cremated remains of a young adult and has been dated to between 1730 and 1600 BC.
https://www.livescience.com/archaeology/stunning-bronze-age-burial-chamber-discovered-on-the-english-moor
Heritage protection for a newly discovered Roman town in Cambridgeshire
Archaeological features include the remains of streets and buildings, pottery, metal and shell objects, indicating that both domestic and industrial activities occurred in the settlement, which has been described by Historic England as ‘a significant Roman town’.
https://historicengland.org.uk/whats-new/in-your-area/east-of-england/cambridgeshire-roman-town-given-protection/?utm_medium=email&utm_source=newsletter&utm_campaign=news
Britain’s Superhenge
Massive 4,500-year-old monoliths found under Durrington Walls in Wiltshire might be the largest prehistoric monument ever found.
https://www.thevintagenews.com/2016/01/13/durrington-walls-casts-up-a-new-standing-stone-riddle/
Peak District landscapes
A brief introduction to changing landscapes in our neighbouring county, ranging from medieval lead mines to a Site of Special Scientific Interest in the Derbyshire Dales National Nature Reserve:
https://www.derbytelegraph.co.uk/news/local-news/discover-peak-district-historic-mines-9472096
Quarry Bank Giant’s Castle Walk
Ancient woodland, medieval buildings and the River Bollin are some of the sights to enjoy on this walk near Styal in Cheshire. For printable instructions and a map, see:
https://www.nationaltrust.org.uk/visit/cheshire-greater-manchester/quarry-bank/quarry-bank-giants-castle-walk
Welsh sites in danger from climate change
The bad news: a hillfort, a Roman road, a bridge, and a stately home in North Wales are among more than 30,000 sites in the Principality believed to be at risk from climate change. The good news: identifying these sites has enabled adaptation measures to be put in place to mitigate possible damage.
https://www.dailypost.co.uk/whats-on/trips-breaks/10-priceless-sites-north-wales-29753057
Wharram Percy Deserted Medieval Village in Yorkshire
Photos, a brief description and links to more details information:
https://www.examinerlive.co.uk/news/history/visit-yorkshires-medieval-ghost-village-29711391
St Winefride’s Well: A Catholic Shrine that Survived the Reformation
20-minute video about a shrine in Holywell, Flintshire credited with healing powers, thanks to the power of a 7th-century saint.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ifj3e_ftU4s
Tudor wall paintings found beneath plaster at medieval manor in Yorkshire
The paintings at Calverley Old Hall feature mythical creatures and climbing vines in red, black and white. Dendrochronology of the artworks’ wooden frame suggests that they were created somewhere between 1540 and 1580.
https://www.smithsonianmag.com/smart-news/gobsmacked-restorers-make-discovery-of-a-lifetime-at-medieval-manor-in-england-180979053/
Eyes on the Night Sky
What to look out for in the celestial landscape in September.
https://elanvalley.org.uk/uncategorized/eyes-on-the-night-sky-september-2024/
Iron Age bridle mount excavated at Greenfield Valley Heritage Park
Pottery, a hearth and postholes have also been found at the Flintshire site, pointing to cooperative links between the Iron Age Deceangli tribe and the Roman legionary fortress of Deva.
https://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/north-wales-news/teenager-finds-2000-year-old-29809487?IYA-mail=94abe4d3-b8e5-4dfc-8e0d-a89cea13af95
Interpreting aerial photography
Introduction to the work of Historic England’s Aerial Survey Team, with links to aerial fieldwork resources.
https://www.archaeologyuk.org/resource/the-view-from-above—air-photo-interpretation.html
Human interaction with the landscape can improve biodiversity
The low-intensity agricultural management style favoured by Neolithic farmers tends to offer greater ecological benefits than rewilding.
https://theconversation.com/the-first-farmers-often-made-landscapes-more-biodiverse-our-research-could-have-lessons-for-rewilding-today-233272?utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=Latest%20from%20The%20Conversation%20for%20July%2026%202024%20-%203047131055&utm_content=Latest%20from%20The%20Conversation%20for%20July%2026%202024%20-%203047131055+CID_93a10cb74465469d5bbf8c9319aa3871&utm_source=campaign_monitor_uk&utm_term=The%20first%20farmers%20often%20made%20landscapes%20more%20biodiverse%20%20our%20research%20could%20have%20lessons%20for%20rewilding%20today
Monumental prehistoric henge found in Lincolnshire
Archaeologists hoping to discover more about the home of the hermit St Guthlac at Crowland discovered much older remains than anticipated.
https://metro.co.uk/2024/04/16/archaeologists-looking-a-saint-found-a-stone-age-surprise-20650987/
Geological map of Zealandia
The existence of the continent of Zealandia was unknown until 2017. It’s two-thirds the size of Australia, but 95% of it is submerged beneath the Pacific Ocean. An international team of researchers has produced the first geological map of the continent.
https://www.forbes.com/sites/davidbressan/2023/09/27/first-geological-map-of-earths-lost-continent-zealandia-published/
Cathedral Ceilings
Fan vaulting, heraldic arms, gilding, stars… Photos and brief descriptions of the finest ceilings in 44 cathedrals, plus a short video offering viewers a close-up look at Bradford’s clerestory and roof timbers.
https://www.englishcathedrals.co.uk/cathedrals/cathedral-ceilings-always-look-up/?utm_source=The+British+Pilgrimage+Trust&utm_campaign=4e1f43b4d1-EMAIL_CAMPAIGN_2024_07_10_01_11&utm_medium=email&utm_term=0_-4e1f43b4d1-%5BLIST_EMAIL_ID%5D&mc_cid=4e1f43b4d1&mc_eid=0d4ccf41c5
Britain’s hidden woodlands
Slide show with text below.
https://www.msn.com/en-gb/travel/tripideas/britain-s-beautiful-hidden-woodlands-are-packed-with-secrets/ss-AA1hHak8?item=module_ad_enabled%253afalse#image=6
Roman Chester: Deva Victrix
Short film by the University of Chester’s Department of History and Archaeology.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zCtTwvIwMIw&t=56s
Does a cave beneath Pembroke Castle hold the key to the fate of early Britons?
https://www.theguardian.com/science/article/2024/jun/22/does-a-cave-beneath-pembroke-castle-hold-key-to-fate-of-early-britons
The birth of Britain: hidden volcanoes
Tony Robinson investigates how volcanoes influenced the shape and location of the British Isles. On YouTube, with subtitles.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=aBWJZBdWug0&t=119s
Iron Age farmsteads, two Roman villas and a World War II airfield revealed at Attingham Park during an archaeological survey commissioned by the National Trust to improve nature restoration
https://www.independent.co.uk/climate-change/news/roman-shropshire-attingham-park-iron-age-english-b2573647.html
Ancient ruins obliterated by nature
Gallery of sites across the world.
https://www.msn.com/en-gb/travel/news/ancient-ruins-obliterated-by-mother-nature-in-the-uk-and-beyond/ss-BB1nJUhG
The 2.5 mile tunnel that changed North Wales forever
https://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/spectacular-25-mile-tunnel-changed-29400684
Secrets of crumpled gold treasures unfolded by digital scans
Found in Denmark after being buried for an estimated 1,400 years, the sixteen bracteates (medallion-like necklaces) in the trove can now be examined without causing physical damage.
https://www.express.co.uk/news/science/1828650/iron-age-gold-treasures-ct-scans-reconstruction
Silver-plated Hallaton helmet reconstructed
The Roman helmet, which was found in Leicestershire and dates from the first century AD, has been reconstructed digitally by a Leicester silversmith and by hand by an Italian craftsman. The original is on display at the museum in Market Harborough.
https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-england-leicestershire-68674319
Shaped quartz crystals found at ancient ceremonial site
The crystals may have been used to decorate Neolithic graves.
https://www.express.co.uk/news/uk/1871673/archaeology-discovery-rare-crystals-dorstone-hill-spt
Seven ‘secret’ places in North Wales
From brickworks and beaches to yew trees and caverns, Britain still has some interesting places to enjoy away from the crowds.
https://www.greatbritishlife.co.uk/magazines/cheshire/22578093.7-secret-places-north-wales/
Nature’s ghosts: how reviving medieval farming offers wildlife an unexpected haven
https://www.theguardian.com/environment/article/2024/may/23/natures-ghosts-excerpt-sophie-yeo-the-vile-national-trust-aoe
‘Like finding a pyramid’ What ancient buried yew trees tell us about the Fens
https://inews.co.uk/news/science/buried-ancient-yew-trees-fens-2772821
3D scans of the drowned medieval port town of Dunwich
https://www.dailymail.co.uk/sciencetech/article-2322087/The-streets-Britains-Atlantis-seen-time-3D-scans-reveal-lost-medieval-town-Dunwich.html
Web Aviation aerial photography
Over 17,500 aerial photos of England, Scotland and Wales, including 19 of Cheshire.
https://www.webbaviation.co.uk/
Churches, chapels and places of faith in North Wales
Photos, text and links to relevant websites.
https://www.visitwales.com/inspire-me/holidays/faith-tourism/churches-chapels-and-places-faith-north-wales?epik=dj0yJnU9QWpObVA0ZEFqWVMtRGdnM3hKRXNaWWhoTHdBVTlMcEUmcD0wJm49azdfTnRRWVBrZmZxYXM1ZDdIVlZOQSZ0PUFBQUFBR1lzTjh3
Soft-bodied fossils discovered near Llandrindod Wells
Found in rocks laid down under the sea over 460 million years ago.
https://www.independent.co.uk/news/science/powys-fossils-covid-sweden-one-b2330318.html
Castles of the Lune Valley
Map, photos and information.
https://bitaboutbritain.com/the-castles-of-the-lune-valley/
Coastal walk around the Dee estuary with downloadable guides
https://www.discoveringbritain.org/activities/wales/walks/flint.html
Pex Hill Nature Reserve, Widnes
Photos and suggested route through varied habitat which forms part of the Mersey Forest.
http://www.cheshirenow.co.uk/pex_hill.html
The Stone Circles of Wales
Photos and brief descriptions of 11 prehistoric monuments.
https://www.walesonline.co.uk/news/wales-news/stone-circles-wales-fascinating-reasons-13361114#ICID=sharebar_pinterest
2,000-year-old Roman road accidentally found in Worcestershire
https://www.ancient-origins.net/news-history-archaeology/roman-road-ford-0017445
Clickable menu of parks and gardens in Cheshire, Derbyshire, Lancashire and Merseyside
http://www.cheshirenow.co.uk/gardens.htm
Viroconium: photographs and potted history of Wroxeter Roman City
https://www.heritagedaily.com/2020/06/viroconium-wroxeter-roman-city/129668
‘England’s Pompeii’ gives insights into life in Britain 3,000 years ago
Numerous well-preserved artefacts have been found among the remains of Bronze Age huts destroyed by fire in the East Anglian Fens.
https://www.independent.co.uk/news/science/archaeology/peterborough-pompeii-bronzeage-discovery-dig-b2515155.html
Preservation plans for Wirral’s nearest island
At low tide Hilbre Island can be reached on foot from West Kirby, and now several of its semi-derelict historic buildings are set to get a new lease of life thanks to Hilbre Community Island Trust, which has acquired the lease from Wirral Council.
https://www.liverpoolecho.co.uk/news/liverpool-news/inside-buildings-islands-you-can-28869103?utm_source=liverpool_echo_newsletter&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=Liverpool+Echo+-+Daily+Newsletter_newsletter&utm_content=&utm_term=&ruid=fee879e0-f9b7-4c6f-8ca5-a9fa64e03ff9
Hooton Aircraft Museum revamp approved
Between April and October Hooton Park Trust hosts open days on the last Sunday of the month. The site was operational as an aerodrome between 1917 and 1957, and reuse of a former hangar will enable more historic aircraft and engines to be on display.
https://www.chesterstandard.co.uk/news/24275167.hooton-aircraft-museum-revamp-approved-ahead-open-day/?ref=ebmpn&nid=1545&block=article_block_a&u=d4c9d445a11ca3b4d5080d09710dae3e&date=240424
Watching sunset or sunrise on Yr Wyddfa (Snowdon)
The top of the highest mountain in Wales in the most popular place to watch sunrise and sunset in the UK. This article offers tips on how to reach the peak – and climb back down – safely when light conditions are poor:
https://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/north-wales-news/most-popular-place-uk-see-28735269
Lundunwic (Saxon London) was bigger than previously realised
Recent archaeological findings and photos:
https://www.ancient-origins.net/news-history-archaeology/saxon-london-0020377
History of Tarvin and directions for walk to Hockenhull Platts
Photos and info about a picturesque settlement 6 miles north-east of Chester and nearby medieval pack-horse bridges.
http://www.cheshirenow.co.uk/tarvin.html
Anglo-Saxon settlement and the origins of the English village
An account of research into the evidence for English settlement and landscape from AD 600-1100.
https://archaeology.co.uk/articles/features/exploring-anglo-saxon-settlement.htm
Archaeologists uncover the secrets beneath Arthur’s Stone in Herefordshire
https://www.express.co.uk/news/uk/1871844/archaeology-arthurs-stone-neolithic-herefordshire-spt
1,100-year-old sword found in River Cherwell in Oxfordshire
https://www.livescience.com/archaeology/vikings/1100-year-old-viking-sword-pulled-from-uk-river-by-magnet-fisher?utm_term=45CAB862-7568-43AB-A667-BD7298D261D3&lrh=84ce638986bc73b191ec0774c05a547009942838093c58c9450b62a0b824de21&utm_campaign=368B3745-DDE0-4A69-A2E8-62503D85375D&utm_medium=email&utm_content=FA21F61D-3C33-4B03-8F4F-11B919A21C27&utm_source=SmartBrief
Aerial Archaeology Mapping Explorer
Interesting tool that displays archaeology in England which has been identified, mapped and recorded using aerial sources.
https://historicengland.org.uk/research/results/aerial-archaeology-mapping-explorer/
Unusual tours of Liverpool
Article highlighting some of the options available if you’d like a themed guided tour in one of the North West’s largest cities. The Western Approaches Command Centre, the Mersey Tunnels and Princes Road Synagogue are just three of the possibilities.
https://www.liverpoolecho.co.uk/whats-on/unusual-tours-liverpool-you-can-26990505
Merseyside’s maritime heritage saved in Cheshire
Aged over 120, the last tugboat built in Merseyside has been given new lease of life and a new home in Ellesmere Port:
https://www.cheshire-live.co.uk/news/history/she-gets-your-blood-last-28693194?IYA-mail=e26b78fd-f017-4895-a873-57ab3aad40c8
Discovering Cheshire’s Industrial Archaeology: Part 1
https://archaeologytea.wordpress.com/2014/08/17/discovering-cheshires-industrial-archaeology-part-1/
Discovering Cheshire’s Industrial Archaeology: Part 2
https://archaeologytea.wordpress.com/2014/08/31/discovering-cheshires-industrial-archaeology-part-2/
Archaeologists discover the world’s oldest wooden structure
In a video lasting just over 8 minutes Professor Larry Barham presents and discusses wooden remains shaped by human hands over 477,000 years ago and found under a river in Zambia by a team led by Liverpool University
https://www.liverpool.ac.uk/feature/oldest-wooden-structure/
Merseyside’s Oldest Building
Funding and preservation plans to protect Birkenhead Priory:
https://www.liverpoolecho.co.uk/news/liverpool-news/merseysides-oldest-building-can-found-28650050
Update on dig for Viking ship under Wirral pub
https://www.wirralglobe.co.uk/news/24144345.dig-viking-boat-wirral-pub-car-park-continues/?ref=ebmpn&nid=774&u=34c06549a3faa7a06a87ca649b5bb595&date=260224
Map of what Britain would look like if all the Earth’s ice melted
Bye-bye, Chester and Wirral! Let’s hope this transformation is a very, very, very long time coming.
https://www.msn.com/en-gb/news/uknews/fascinating-map-shows-what-uk-would-look-like-if-all-the-earth-s-ice-melted/ar-AA1mZQ2C?rc=1&ocid=winp1taskbar&cvid=8a8f04ec48a44424bc4a9f2a7d1756f2&ei=5
The ancient landslide and tsunami that separated Britain from Europe
https://www.dailymail.co.uk/sciencetech/article-2618640/Tsunami-8-200-years-ago-wiped-tribes-British-Atlantis-say-researchers.html#i-7968f03497f4871c
Woodland walks in Wales throughout the seasons
https://www.visitwales.com/things-do/nature-and-landscapes/wildlife-flora-and-fauna/woodland-walks-wales-through-seasons
The birth of England
From separate kingdoms to a cohesive realm united under a single ruler: how the Battle of Brunanburh changed Britain forever
https://deadliestblogpage.wordpress.com/2017/10/05/england-is-born-at-bloody-brunanburh/
Sound tunnel above Pontcysyllte Aqueduct
Photographs, history and how to locate the tunnel
https://www.walesonline.co.uk/whats-on/hidden-tunnel-suspended-above-welsh-28352591?utm_source=wales_online_newsletter&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=Wales+Online+-
10 facts about birds in the UK
Fascinating info in the wake of the RSPB’s Big Garden Birdwatch plus a list of the most common birds by region
https://www.daviddomoney.com/amazing-bird-facts/
History walk of Farndon with James Balme
Video tour and ancillary information in print
https://www.greatbritishlife.co.uk/things-to-do/23409314.video-tour-exploring-history-farndon-cheshire/
Cucklet Church: Exploring the Plague Church cavern near Eyam
Photographs, historic background and directions for a short walk
https://www.walkmyworld.com/posts/cucklet-church-eyam
Peak District walk: Kettleshulme from the Swan Inn (4 miles)
Map, photographs, history, topographical information and directions
https://www.greatbritishlife.co.uk/magazines/cheshire/23855396.invigorating-hill-walk-cheshires-eastern-boundary/
1,300-year-old female burial highlights Harpole’s illustrious past
High status jewellery found during archaeological investigations in Harpole indicate cultural similarities between Anglo-Saxon Northamptonshire and Sutton Hoo
https://www.bbc.com/news/uk-england-northamptonshire-67691018
Circular walk along Hockenhull Platts, Cheshire’s ancient packhorse route (5 miles/8km)
https://www.leaderlive.co.uk/news/17947229.walk-hockenhull-platts—cheshires-ancient-packhorse-route-8km/
Man as a Geological Agent: An Account of His Actions on Inanimate Nature
Digital edition of R.U. Sherlock’s 1922 book, featuring numerous examples from Cheshire.
https://archive.org/details/manasgeologicala00sheriala/page/136/mode/2up?ui=embed&view=theater
Island 102: Hilbre, Dee Estuary, Wirral
Photographs and summary of the history and geography of Wirral’s most famous island nature reserve.
https://alifetimeofislands.blogspot.com/2011/05/island-102-hilbre-dee-estuary-wirral.html#comment-form
Landscape Level Change (Issue 25 of the digital magazine Historic England Research)
https://historicengland.org.uk/whats-new/research/?utm_medium=email&utm_source=newsletter&utm_campaign=brand
Behind the Scenes: Woodland Management During the Winter Months
https://heartofenglandforest.org/news/behind-scenes-woodland-management-during-winter-months?utm_source=Heart+of+England+Forest+Communications&utm_campaign=e722184de0-ENEWSLETTER-JAN-2019_COPY_01&utm_medium=email&utm_term=0_970ca1fa29-e722184de0-159908301&mc_cid=e722184de0&mc_eid=26c300a6b7
Enjoying Walks Despite Arthritis: 5 Ways To Feel More Confident Walking Longer Distances
https://keeptheadventurealive.com/arthritis-of-the-knee/
Cheshire Walk: Disley and the Black Rocks
https://www.greatbritishlife.co.uk/things-to-do/walks/22582782.cheshire-walk—disley-black-rocks/
Secret Wales: 34 fascinating places you’ve probably never seen before
https://www.walesonline.co.uk/whats-on/whats-on-news/secret-wales-34-hidden-fascinating-14330383
Online catalogue of archaeology, buildings, industrial and maritime heritage in Wales
https://coflein.gov.uk/en/
King Stephen coins found by metal detectorist
Image of rare 12th century silver pennies plus info about the historical context
https://www.ancient-origins.net/news-history-archaeology/king-stephen-coins-0019852
National Memorial Arboretum Revisited
https://bitaboutbritain.com/national-memorial-arboretum-revisited/
Cheshire walk: Higher Poynton and Lyme Park
https://www.greatbritishlife.co.uk/things-to-do/walks/22587335.cheshire-walk—higher-poynton-lyme-park/
Ancient Irish Gold
Photos and info about some of the most stunning gold artefacts ever made in Europe
https://www.reenaahluwalia.com/blog/2013/7/6/r-irelands-gold
Gwaenysgor’s fascinating past
https://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/north-wales-news/forgotten-history-tiny-north-wales-25742108
The Churches of Britain and Ireland
A huge database which continues to seek entries
https://www.churches-uk-ireland.org/
History of the Wirral Peninsula
Extensive collection of photos and snippets
https://wirralhistory.uk/
History of Tidal Science in Liverpool
https://tide-and-time.uk/tidal-science-liverpool
Cheshire Directories, 1789-1910
PDFs of 11 directories, forming a superb reference source about many aspects of the county’s past.
http://cheshiredirectories.manuscripteye.com/index.htm
15th C French painting depicts a precisely drawn prehistoric tool
https://www.ancient-origins.net/news-history-archaeology/acheulean-handaxe-painting-0019589
Old maps of Liverpool
https://historic-liverpool.co.uk/old-maps-of-liverpool/
When did humans start burying their dead?
https://www.livescience.com/archaeology/when-did-humans-start-burying-their-dead?utm_term=45CAB862-7568-43AB-A667-BD7298D261D3&lrh=84ce638986bc73b191ec0774c05a547009942838093c58c9450b62a0b824de21&utm_campaign=368B3745-DDE0-4A69-A2E8-62503D85375D&utm_medium=email&utm_content=99C8F233-401C-4298-B580-CF8DF1C6C222&utm_source=SmartBrief
The Country Seat: Brereton Hall and other Prodigy houses
This is part of a recent for-sale ad but contains a wealth of interesting information about famous houses built in a distinctive architectural style
https://thecountryseat.org.uk/2013/11/14/a-minor-prodigy-brereton-hall-for-sale/
Deep History of Cheshire
https://www.themeister.co.uk/hindley/domesticated_animals.htm
Oldest human footprints in North America really are 23,000 years old
https://www.livescience.com/archaeology/debate-settled-oldest-human-footprints-in-north-america-really-are-23000-years-old-study-finds?utm_term=45CAB862-7568-43AB-A667-BD7298D261D3&lrh=84ce638986bc73b191ec0774c05a547009942838093c58c9450b62a0b824de21&utm_campaign=368B3745-DDE0-4A69-A2E8-62503D85375D&utm_medium=email&utm_content=15F87901-BC4D-4B09-A247-485866993183&utm_source=SmartBrief
Scotland’s Most Mysterious Stone-Age Settlements
https://www.ancient-origins.net/videos/orkney-islands-stone-age-settlements-0019594?utm_source=jeeng&utm_medium=email&trigger=click
The Cheshire Regiment at the Battle of the Somme
https://www.cheshire-live.co.uk/news/history/cheshire-regiment-key-role-battle-11546389
Lancashire walk with fields, farms and carvery pub
For directions, see:
https://www.lancs.live/whats-on/whats-on-news/perfect-lancashire-walk-fields-farms-27838327?utm_source=lancs_live_newsletter&utm_campaign=daily_newsletter2&utm_medium=email&pure360.trackingid=
Ty Hyll: The Ugly House Wales
Why is it called the Ugly House and where can you find it?
https://thirdeyetraveller.com/the-ugly-house-wales-ty-hyll-betws-y-coed/
Spotter’s Guide to Autumn Birds
https://heartofenglandforest.org/spotters-guide-autumn-birds?utm_source=Heart+of+England+Forest+Communications&utm_campaign=27851f1316-ENEWSLETTER-JAN-2019_COPY_01&utm_medium=email&utm_term=0_970ca1fa29-27851f1316-159908301&mc_cid=27851f1316&mc_eid=26c300a6b7
Welsh trails
Coed y Brenin Visitor Centre, near Dolgellau, for mountain biking, running and walking trails, includes two trails suitable for off road mobility scooters
https://naturalresources.wales/days-out/places-to-visit/north-west-wales/coed-y-brenin-visitor-centre/?lang=en
Public access to the Historic Environment records for Wales
https://archwilio.org.uk/wp/
Lost Lancashire village
https://www.lancs.live/news/lancashire-news/lancashire-village-wiped-from-map-22194160?utm_source=lancs_live_newsletter&utm_campaign=daily_newsletter2&utm_medium=email&pure360.trackingid=
Mapped: All the land, castles and coastline owned by the crown in Wales
https://www.walesonline.co.uk/news/wales-news/mapped-land-castles-coastline-owned-27847564?utm_source=wales_online_newsletter&utm_campaign=daily_newsletter2&utm_medium=email
Archaeologists discover world’s oldest wooden structure
https://news.liverpool.ac.uk/2023/09/20/archaeologists-discover-worlds-oldest-wooden-structure/
Make Wine Not War: Digs in England Reveal 1st Century Roman Vineyard
https://www.ancient-origins.net/news-history-archaeology/roman-vineyard-england-0018877
Stanlow’s Secret Island
https://www.lancs.live/news/uk-world-news/secret-island-less-hour-lancashire-27730500?IYA-reg=76f0b7bd-acc7-413c-8f5a-cb891d809460
Dorothea Quarry Walk
https://www.ancient-origins.net/human-origins-science/gristhorpe-manronze-003406?utm_source=jeeng&utm_medium=email&trigger=click
Rare Roman Cavalry Swords Found in the Cotswolds
https://www.livescience.com/archaeology/romans/2-rare-roman-cavalry-swords-from-1800-years-ago-discovered-by-uk-metal-detectorist?utm_term=45CAB862-7568-43AB-A667-BD7298D261D3&utm_campaign=368B3745-DDE0-4A69-A2E8-62503D85375D&utm_medium=email&utm_content=4EEC7A56-0BA2-4FF6-BC3C-F4FDA259BA26&utm_source=SmartBrief
The Gristhorpe Man: a Bronze Age skeleton with a story to tell
https://www.ancient-origins.net/human-origins-science/gristhorpe-manronze-003406?utm_source=jeeng&utm_medium=email&trigger=click
From pits to flushes: the strange history of toilets
https://www.ancient-origins.net/videos/history-toilets-0019271?utm_source=jeeng&utm_medium=email&
Canal, crag and castle on this easy farmland walk in Cheshire
https://www.greatbritishlife.co.uk/things-to-do/23659572.cheshire-walk-peckforton-beeston-castle-circular/
Cheshire manor house’s hidden history revealed
https://www.cheshire-live.co.uk/news/chester-cheshire-news/cheshire-manor-houses-hidden-history-27626678?IYA-reg=76f0b7bd-acc7-413c-8f5a-cb891d809460