In June 2025, the Bevendean community came together to uncover the hidden stories of Farm Green, a site with roots stretching back to at least the C16th. The week-long dig, supported by the National Trust’s Changing Chalk Community Grants Scheme, brought archaeologists, local historians, local residents and families to explore the remains of Bevendean’s farming past.
For Archaeodiscovery, this project was about more than trenches and finds — it was about engagement, creativity, and co-creation.
Inspiring Young Archaeologists
Children from the local area joined the dig, taking part in workshops designed by Archaeodiscovery. From carefully brushing soil away from flint walls to recording features of the Carters Cottage, these sessions gave young participants the chance to contribute meaningfully to the project and take ownership of their heritage. Their discoveries included nearly 8000 finds and several features- from structure walls to cobbled floors.
Watch the project film here!
Co-Creating the Interactive Guide
Alongside the fieldwork, Archaeodiscovery worked with families and partners to co-create an interactive guide that includes hand drawn illustrations, maps and images as well as embedded videos.
You can download a copy here: Farm Green Interactive Guide
This resource captures the voices of participants, blends historical context with playful activities, and ensures that the project’s impact continues long after the trenches were backfilled.
👉 You can view the seperate film clips here: Test Pit 1, Test Pit 2, Test Pit 3, Test Pit 4
Building Community Connections
The project culminated in an Open Day that welcomed around 300 visitors. Displays, music, dancing, and local stalls turned the dig into a celebration of community heritage. Archaeodiscovery’s role was to make sure families felt empowered to take part — not just as spectators, but as co-authors of the story of Bevendean Farm Green.
Looking Ahead
The Bevendean Farm Green Dig shows what happens when archaeology is opened up to everyone: heritage becomes a living, shared experience. Archaeodiscovery is proud to have helped engage children, deliver workshops, and co-create resources that hopefully go someway to make archaeology more accessible.
We look forward to continuing this work, supporting communities to dig into their past, and discover how history can inspire futures.
