Dig into Walmgate’s past of cattle markets and butchers – as York Archaeology host an open day this weekend.
The free event will take place at Willow House, just inside Walmgate Bar, on Saturday 27 July from 10am to 3pm, and is part of the National Festival of Archaeology.
Tours of the live trenches will take place throughout the day, and visitors will be able to try their hand at some key archaeology skills – including drawing of finds and handling some of the items uncovered on site so far, such as fragments of pottery dating as far back as the Roman period.
There will also be archival maps and photos to look at, as well as activities for kids.
The dig site is where York hosted a fortnightly cattle market from the late 16th century until 1970.
“Long-standing residents will probably remember the old stalls set up just outside the city walls from Fishergate to Walmgate Bar,” said Ian Milsted, head of community engagement for York Archaeology.
“We have found many pieces of animal bone on this site, probably discarded by butchers, and their customers, over the years, and will be challenging visitors to guess which animals they came from.
“We are also encouraging locals, especially those who have lived around this area for a long time, to come and share their memories and any photographs taken around the Long Close Lane and Willow Street area.
“We are planning opportunities for locals to get involved in future digs here, so it would be great to chat to them about their experiences and our plans.”
Willow House is home to two of York Archaeology’s ongoing projects: Archaeology on Prescription, and a new training dig for the next generation of archaeologists.
The site has been provided to York Archaeology by City of York Council, and the initiative is funded by the Heritage Fund, NHS and Shared Prosperity Fund.
For more information, please visit the York Archaeology website.