Search is on for prehistoric hunter-gathers in Bradgate Park

It will be scouring the park for evidence of flint tools from those who used the land over 14,000 years ago.

An archaeological dig, which begins today (14 September), has been put together in partnership with Ice Age Journeys, a heritage lottery funded project. 

The dig will be led by experts from the project and supported by the National Lottery Heritage Fund. 

Together, they’ll be looking for traces of hunters who camped at Bradgate Park towards the end of the Ice Age.

They hope to discover the remains of flint tools by the River Lin at the east end of Little Matlock Gorge - where prehistoric hunters would traditionally search for prey.

James Dymond, director of Bradgate Park Trust, said: “Many parks in Leicestershire are vibrantly rich in history and we’re really excited to be bringing an archaeological dig into the park as a landmark of historic interest.  The team at Ice Age Journeys are specialists in their field and we’re really honoured to be working alongside them. 

“For many of our volunteers, this project marks their very first excavation so we’re all looking forward to seeing what’s discovered.”

The volunteers will be hand-digging pits and sieving the spoil as a method to find the small flint points and barbs from spears, darts and knives that would have been used for butchery. 

Ice Age Journeys archaeologist Daryl Garton said: “We want to try and communicate with the people of Leicestershire and the surrounding area about the historic importance of this site. 

“Locals and visitors will know the story about the forgotten queen, Lady Jane Grey, who was born and raised in Bradgate Park, but there is history at this park that runs much deeper that what remains on the surface and this dig will, hopefully, uncover that.”

To complement the activity going on inside the park, Bradgate Park’s team will also be hosting free, themed activities for children to enjoy. From 11am to 3pm on the 18 and 19 September, young volunteers will be leading activities suitable for children that give an insight into the Ice Age period outside the Visitor Centre in the middle of the park 

Nick Rushton, chairperson of Bradgate Park Trust, said: “Volunteers are fundamental in the operations of our parks and it is pleasing to see some of them experiencing an excavation for the very first time. Parks and open spaces, like Bradgate, have been a lifeline during the last 18 months of the Covid pandemic and we’re pleased to be kickstarting these opportunities again. “

The archaeological dig will be taking place between 14 and 16 and 21 and 23 September.