More than 300 people visit pop-up archaeology museums in Bedford and Milton Keynes to explore the fascinating history hidden beneath their feet.
Hosted by MOLA (Museum of London Archaeology) in partnership with East West Rail, the free events gave visitors the chance to handle artefacts dating back more than 2,000 years – from pottery and coins to jewellery and brooches – and step inside the past through a virtual reality roundhouse experience.
Families got to experience ancient crafts, including basket weaving and plant pot design inspired by Iron Age traditions, while archaeologists were on hand to share their knowledge and stories. A ‘mystery object’ challenge also kept people guessing – later revealed to be a unique pastry cutting wheel dated from the 1700s.
The artefacts on display weren’t unearthed by East West Rail, but from similar excavation projects across the region. The finds are typical of the kinds of discoveries we expect to make when archaeological investigations begin on the route, which will deliver 95 miles of new connections between Oxford, Milton Keynes, Bedford and Cambridge.
Local residents who came along told us how much they valued the experience.
Debbie Mars, from Marston Moretaine, Bedfordshire, said: "It’s really important that communities are able to see their local history in this way. Events like these help bring people and communities together – and it’s fascinating to see finds made from digs on our doorstep."
The events were a great success and the feedback will help shape how we share discoveries from future archaeological investigations on EWR.