We will be returning for a fourth year of test pitting and excavation this season at Albury Park to investigate the deserted medieval settlement which once stretched across the course of the former road to Shere, on the southern banks of the Tillingbourne. The original village of Albury was displaced in the early 19th century (to its current location to the west), and little now remains standing of the former cottages. However, with the help of geophysical survey, LiDAR and - of course - a large-scale series of test pits spread across the site, we are working to uncover and learn more about the original settlement, which now includes extensive Roman activity! (read more about the project here).

We will be holding an open day, as part of the Festival of Archaeology on Saturday 25 July. In addition to displays on what's been found to date, we welcome members of the community to come along and see (or take part in) the test pitting. Families are welcome, and no experience is needed. There will also be opportunity to view the terraced gardens, designed by John Evelyn, which are not normally open to the public.

This will be followed by a three week investigation of our area of Roman settlement, which will take place from Tuesday 8 to Saturday 26 September). Volunteers are welcome for both finds and digging; no prior experience needed and all tools provided. 

If interested in taking part and wanting to be added to the project mailing list, please contact our community archaeologist Anne at outreach@surreyarchaeology.org.uk.