Established in 1996, SHARP is one of the largest independent archaeological projects in Britain and is firmly rooted in the local community. Our primary research objective is the investigation of the entire range of human settlement and land use in the north-west Norfolk parish of Sedgeford. We have undertaken a wide range of excavation and research projects from an Early Bronze Age crouch-burial through to a First World War aerodrome. During our 2023 season, we will continue excavations of a series of Anglo-Saxon malting buildings (CA 379). New malting kilns were identified last season, and this year we hope to reveal even more about this internationally significant site.
In addition to our research, SHARP has always placed a great emphasis on archaeological education and development. Since the project was formed, thousands of people have arrived at our Boneyard Field site to excavate, carry out research, or take one of our many courses.
Many archaeologists got their start at SHARP and large numbers of these people now work today in a variety of roles in commercial archaeology, academic research, and the heritage sector. We welcome people of all backgrounds, with or without previous archaeological experience. Anyone with an interest in archaeology and the past is welcome.
Our excavations are also open to the public 10am-4pm Sunday-Friday, during our six-week season (2nd July - 11th August 2023).