Excavation at Abbey Cwmhir
Whether you are new to archaeology or looking to gain some practical experience for an educational course, we have several opportunities to get involved.
Abbey Cwmhir Heritage Trust welcomes you to work alongside our team of dedicated volunteers, led by Trysor, our professional archaeologists.
Over two weeks in July 2026, we will continue the excavation of a house platform within the home grange of Abbey Cwmhir. This is our fourth year digging a site which offers the rare and important opportunity to study the origins of a long abandoned upland settlement.
Last year new and exciting features began to emerge and we can’t wait to explore them to hopefully finally understand when Cwmffwrn was first built. For our findings so far, please look here.
Our dig has been designed to lead a small number of individuals through the excavation process in a way that is not always possible on large sites. Although our upland landscape has suggestions of house platforms of the type we are excavating, it is very unusual for them to be examined by a dig and therefore you would have the chance to be involved in important evolving research.
All in the beautiful and peaceful Radnorshire countryside!
Opportunities to get involved:
Experience Days - get a taste of what excavation is about - Saturday 18th and Sunday 19th July
Each day will be stand alone so attendees can book for 1 or both days. On each day attendees will be able to experience the full variety of activities.
The dig will take place between 10.00 – 4.00 on each day.
Tea/coffee will be provided but participants should bring their own packed lunch.
A detailed participants handbook will be provided in advance of the day.
Please note that young people (under-18s) and vulnerable adults will need to be accompanied.
Trainee weeks – Train in a small group and learn the basics – 20th-24th July and 27th-31st July
Book an Excavation Trainee Week to spend 5 days working closely with professional archaeologists on site. For £450 you will receive a week’s training in excavation and recording techniques. Only 6 trainee slots are available each week, therefore you are guaranteed to be at the heart of activity on site and to be guided and mentored by a professional archaeologist throughout. You will need to find your own accommodation and food is not provided although tea/coffee will be during the day(s).
It will be possible to purchase the BAJR (British Archaeological Jobs and Resources) archaeological skills passport for this event. It will act as a record of practical training during this week and is recognised as a stepping stone into professional archaeology. More information about this will be given to participants.
A detailed participants handbook will be provided in advance of the week.
Please note that young people (under-18s) and vulnerable adults will need to be accompanied.
If you wish know more, then please contact Jackie at [email protected]
