Copped Hall is an important archaeological site with a complex sequence of building phases. Its recorded history starts in the 12th century. The Copped Hall Trust Archaeological Project (CHTAP) is carrying out a programme of excavations on the site of the earlier mansion (“old” Copped Hall), which stood at the northern end of the gardens and was demolished in 1748. The site is mainly Tudor but there are finds from all periods from the modern back to medieval, Saxon, Roman and prehistoric times.

Training Excavations

In July 2012, the CHTAP will be running three Taster Weekends, each one aimed at teaching beginners the basics of archaeology and excavation.

Saturday 14th and Sunday 15th July
Saturday 21st and Sunday 22nd July
Saturday 28th July and Sunday 29th July

Each weekend will include presentations by a professional archaeologist on methods of investigation and on finds, but the aim of the weekend will be for students to spend the great majority of their time on actual excavation. The cost of each weekend is £50 and you can download the Booking Form here.

In August 2012, two five-day Field Schools will be held for those who have already learned the basics of excavation and recording, either at Copped Hall or elsewhere, and wish to develop their skills further. The aim of the schools will be to advance the archaeology of old Copped Hall

Monday 6th – Friday 10th August
Monday 13th – Friday 17th August

Weather permitting, the students will work in the trench all week under the direction of professional archaeologists, assisted by supervisors who know the site very well.
Certificates will be awarded to those who complete each School. The cost of the Field School is £90 per week, and you can download the Booking Form here.

Please note: bookings must be for a whole Taster Weekend or a whole Field School, not single days.