Carl Champness of Oxford Archaeology presents: A Tale of Two Channels – Ancient River Systems and Palaeolithic Activity in the Thames Valley

The presentation will discuss the findings of two commercially funded archaeological investigations conducted along the M25 at Belhus Park, Essex, in the Lower Thames, and the A34 Lodge Hill interchange, in North Abingdon, Oxfordshire, in the Upper Thames Valley. These investigations have uncovered evidence of interglacial channel sequences and early hominin activity dating between 800,000 and 300,000 years ago.

A sequence of environmental change is revealed through the fossil assemblages, environmental remains, and Palaeolithic tools found at these sites. The presentation also discusses the challenges faced by archaeologists in identifying and investigating Palaeolithic sites within developer-funded projects, while emphasizing their valuable contributions to Palaeolithic research.

At the same time Abingdon Museum is launching the Abingdon Community Archaeology Project (ACAP), which calls on the community to come together for the preservation of our prehistoric heritage. Starting around Lodge Hill and expanding into other North Abingdon sites.

Join us to learn more about what’s under our feet and get actively involved in the preservation of our archaeology!