A free pop-up archaeology museum is opening in Bedford tomorrow (Wednesday), giving local people the chance to explore discoveries unearthed along the future route of East West Rail (EWR).
The event, hosted by the Museum of London Archaeology (MOLA), will showcase real artefacts dating back more than 2,000 years, including pottery, coins, brooches, bracelets and buttons found during works along the EWR route.
Visitors will also have the opportunity to participate in hands-on activities, such as basket weaving and pottery design, inspired by ancient craft techniques at the exhibition at Queens Park Community Centre from 20 August.
Read: Explore ‘pop up archaeology museums’ bringing the past to life
An immersive virtual reality roundhouse experience will also allow people to step back in time, while archaeologists will be on hand to talk about recent excavations and findings in the local area.
The pop-up museums come ahead of planned archaeological investigations linked to the construction of 95 miles of new railway, which will connect Oxford, Milton Keynes, Bedford and Cambridge as part of the EWR project.
Organisers say the exhibitions will also help the EWR Company understand how communities want to be informed about archaeological discoveries during the construction works.
The events are free, suitable for all ages, and do not require pre-booking.
- It opens tomorrow, Wednesday, 20 August 2025, from 11am–6pm at Queens Park Community Centre, Marlborough Road, MK40 4LF.
