Chance to dig into Wychavon’s past

An exciting project to unearth the hidden secrets of one of Wychavon’s major tourist attractions takes place next month and residents can get involved.

Wychavon has joined forces with Dig Hartlebury to carry out an excavation at Hartlebury Castle to try and discover more of the story behind the site’s fascinating history.

It follows a dig last year which uncovered the location of a previously unknown civil war bastion within the grounds of the castle. The castle was the home of the Bishops of Worcester for centuries and has strong royal connections.

During the English Civil War, a garrison of 120 soldiers was based at the castle and it is hoped this latest dig will improve understanding of the bastion’s features and the story behind it.

The dig starts on Saturday, 6 July and lasts for a week. Wychavon residents can volunteer to support professional archaeologists on site. Schools from across the area will also be taking part in the dig during the week.

On Saturday, 13 July a special open day takes place from 11am to 5pm where visitors to the castle will be able to experience The Sealed Knot living history encampment.

Colourful characters will be demonstrating various aspects of 17^th century life including cooking, embroidery and armoury cleaning. There will also be an artillery display, the opportunity to try loading a cannon, as well as a children’s trail and pike drills and much more. Visitors can also talk to archaeologists about the dig and learn more about their findings. Standard admission to Hartlebury Castle applies.

Tim Cornah (pictured), from Dig Hartlebury, said: “We’re delighted to be working with Wychavon on this project which will hopefully result in some finds which will help us understand if the defences were ever used in anger and learn more about some of its features.”

Ian Macleod, Director of Planning and Infrastructure for Wychavon District Council, said: “Wychavon has a rich heritage and supporting this dig is a fantastic way of helping unearth more of our district’s story and a great opportunity for residents to get involved.”

Volunteer places on the dig are limited. Anyone interested in taking part should email This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. to register their interest by 23 June.