Hand-built by a dedicated group of volunteers using traditional techniques, Avalon Archaeology is a lovingly crafted reproduction of Somerset’s heritage in the heart of the Avalon Marshes.
With our guide, you’ll explore a richly decorated reconstructed Roman dining room and Anglo-Saxon longhall, as well as a waterline replica of a Viking ship. Filled with hand-crafted furniture and art, you will immerse yourself in thousands of years of heritage and discover the detective work behind its recreation.
The tour will last for approximately 1 hour, after which you can enjoy the site at your own pace. You can use this time to visit the world’s oldest excavation hut and watch short films on local archaeology in the Bulleid and Gray Cinema or see the current progress of the construction of our Iron Age roundhouse.
The tour price includes free re-entry to the site during normal opening hours for the whole of 2023. To join the tour, bring your ticket on paper or on your mobile to the Welcome Hut at Avalon Archaeology. Part of the tour will take place outside, so dress appropriately for the weather.
After your visit, you can make use of the Avalon Marshes Centre and visit the Somerset Crafts gallery. You can also journey onto Shapwick Heath National Nature Reserve and see replica wooden prehistoric trackways.
Unfortunately, we do not allow dogs into the site except for assistance dogs. Dogs are welcome in the wider Avalon Marshes Centre and must be kept on a short lead at all times. Please note that dogs are not allowed on the main area of Shapwick Heath, which is the closest nature reserve to the site.
Accessibility
The reconstructed buildings are accessible but feature some uneven gravel surfaces and narrow spaces that may make turning in larger electric wheelchairs difficult. A manual wheelchair is available on site for visitors to loan if there are issues. Generally, light levels may be lower than you may be used to in modern buildings, and visitors are welcome to use a torch.
Please contact us at avalon@swheritage.org.uk if you want to discuss special requirements.
Go to www.avalonarchaeology.org.uk for more details, or visit our blog the see the latest work of our dedicated volunteers at avalon-archaeology.com.
Key information
COST
Adult £6.50
Concession and Child 5-17 £4.50
Your ticket entitles you to free entry to the site throughout 2023, during normal opening hours.
DATE AND TIME
Tuesday 27 June 2023, 10.30 am- 12.00 pm
WHERE
Avalon Archaeology at the Avalon Marshes Centre
HOW TO GET INVOLVED
Entry tickets can be purchased online at Eventbrite (to ensure a place) or on the day at Welcome Hut.
ORGANISED BY
SW Heritage Trust
ENQUIRIES
PHOTO CREDIT
SW Heritage Staff