Families in Bedford and Milton Keynes can explore the archaeological discoveries unearthed from the region connected by the East West Rail in exciting free pop-up events.
The ‘pop-up museums’ are being held in advance of the archaeological investigations planned ahead of the work to deliver the 95 miles of track which will connect the communities to the east and west of Milton Keynes out to Cambridge and Oxford.
There will be displays of incredible archaeological artefacts such as pottery, coins, brooches, buttons and needles, representing the everyday life of 2,000 years ago.
The Bedford event will take place on Wednesday, 20 August at Queen’s Park Community Centre, Marlborough Road, MK40 4LF. It will be open from 11am to 6pm and everyone is welcome to attend.
The event in Milton Keynes will take place on Thursday, 21 August at Fishermead Trinitiy Centre.
For more information about the events, please email CommunityEngagement@mola.org.uk.
Visitors will be given the opportunity to immerse themselves into the past through a virtual reality roundhouse experience, and be able to speak to archaeologists about the discoveries that were made in the local area.
The event will be hosted by the Museum of London Archaeology (MOLA), who have extensive experience undertaking archaeological excavations on major construction projects.
Recently, MOLA led the excavation work on the A428 Black Cat to Caxton Gibbet scheme, where their discoveries included some of the largest Iron Age roundhouses ever found in Britain, evidence of early beer and wine making, and even the possible remains of an ancient feast.
Steve Sherlock, Strategic Archaeological Advisor at EWR Co, said: “These events offer a rare opportunity for people to see genuine discoveries made near the planned route of East West Rail and offer a fascinating insight into life during the Iron Age.
“Previous events like this have been very popular, so we hope people will come along to see these artefacts, have a go at some ancient crafts, and learn more about the archaeological process.”
Cat Gibbs, Community Engagement Officer at MOLA, said: “We’re excited to share these fascinating discoveries with communities living along the route of East West Rail.
“With more archaeological excavations in the pipeline, this is also a great opportunity for us to listen to suggestions and ideas of visitors about how we can continue engaging people of all ages with the past.”
The events are suitable for the whole family with no pre-booking required.
