Fieldwork

UK: Herefordshire Excavation (IFR)

Location: Court House, Hereford HR3 6AW, United Kingdom

Session Dates: 2025 dates TBD anticipated late June - late July

Application Deadline: February 1, 2025

Deadline Type: Rolling

Website: https://ifrglobal.org/program/uk-herefordshire/

Program Type:
Field School

RPA Certified:
No

Affiliation:
Institute for Field Research (IFR), University of Manchester

Project Director:
Prof. Julian Thomas & Prof. Keith Ray

Project Description:

Discover the cultural landscapes of southwest Herefordshire as you join our field school in exploring the rich prehistoric and medieval history of this borderland region between England and Wales. In this unique program, you’ll split your time between two fascinating sites and time periods. Unearth the secrets of Neolithic activity at Arthur’s Stone, a 5,000-year-old megalithic tomb that reveals the sophisticated rituals and craftsmanship of early settlers in Britain. At Snodhill Castle, you’ll delve into the remains of a major Norman fortress, where recent excavations have uncovered layers of history, from remains of its motte-and-bailey fortifications to the remnants of a Royal Free Chapel—a rare and fascinating glimpse into the medieval past. This field school offers a unique opportunity to investigate these intriguing sites while gaining hands-on experience as an archaeologist. Set in the picturesque village of Dorstone, surrounded by rolling hills and quaint villages, you’ll spend your field days and free time alike immersed in the charm of rural England.

Field School Highlights:

  • Learn a variety of archaeological field skills, from excavation techniques to geophysical surveys, under the guidance of commercial archaeologists.
  • Work alongside local British students and create lasting international friendships.
  • Immerse yourself in the scenic beauty and rich heritage of Herefordshire, with opportunities to visit nearby attractions and soak in the rhythms of life in a traditional English village

Period(s) of Occupation: Prehistoric, Neolithic Archaeology

Project Size: 25-49 participants

Minimum Length of Stay for Volunteers: Students are expected to stay the full length of the program.

Minimum Age: 18

Experience Required: None

Room and Board Arrangements:
Our campsite is the cricket field in Dorstone village, which we have exclusive use of during the fieldwork period. There is a pavilion with showers and toilets, and another building used as a kitchen. During the fieldwork period we also have a large marquee for dining and social space, and at the bottom of the field, beside the stream, there is a space for a campfire. IFR will provide tents. During fieldwork, our food is prepared by a cook employed by the project. There is a hot meal each evening, a variety of breakfast options, and a choice of sandwiches delivered to the site at lunchtime. We are happy to accommodate vegetarians, vegans, gluten-free, food allergies and intolerances, halal, kosher and other diets.

Academic Credit:
8 semester (12 quarter)

Contact Information:


Institute for Field Research

1855 Industrial St. Unit 106

Los Angeles

CA

90021

USA

info@ifrglobal.org

Phone: 424-209-1173

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