Time Team to dig at Sutton Hoo in 2024
🕑 Added 2024-03-08 06:01:37 +0000 UTCWell, we said it was going to be big... and we're delighted to share the news!
Join us throughout June for exclusive updates as the dig unfolds, right here on Patreon. This will be a followed by a feature-length Time Team Special, presented by Sir Tony Robinson, to be released in 2025.
“In all my years exploring archaeology, I never, ever thought that I would get a chance to be involved with an excavation of Sutton Hoo, that is so exciting.”
Sir Tony Robinson
Look out across all our channels for a special preview video coming later today. And this is just the first of several very exciting projects to be announced for 2024, so thank you again for all your support for making it possible.
PRESS RELEASE
Time Team spearheads two-year archaeological project at Sutton Hoo with the National Trust
The National Trust has joined forces with Time Team on a new two-year research project at Sutton Hoo. It’s hoped that the archaeological project, coordinated in partnership with Time Team, will help build a greater understanding of the Suffolk site, which is famous for the Anglo-Saxon ship burial discovered there in 1939.
This research partnership will build on the work carried out by Time Team in 2021 and 2022, when they conducted magnetometry and ground penetrating radar surveys of both the Royal Burial Ground and Garden Field, working with SUMO Geophysics, Aerial Cam and Guideline GEO | MALÅ, and partially funded by the Sutton Hoo Society.
Regional Archaeologist for the National Trust, Angus Wainwright said: “Time Team’s geophysical survey identified several mysterious features in Garden Field. We want to determine if they are archaeology or geological features. To do this we are carefully planning for an archaeological dig in June.

“Garden Field has an extraordinary amount of archaeology in it, from prehistoric fields and possible burial mounds through to Roman settlements and an Anglo-Saxon cemetery, but who knows what else may be hidden there.
“We know from previous work in this field, it’s likely we will find prehistoric flint tools and fragments of Anglo-Saxon objects from burials scattered through the plough soil, but working out what the mysterious geophysical anomalies are will be our focus.
“We hope to find evidence of the deep-time prehistory of Sutton Hoo and perhaps more information about the Anglo-Saxon cemetery, which we first discovered in 2000, when we were building the visitor centre.
“The approach will be painstaking, recording all the finds in 3D from the ground surface, down through the plough soil until we reach the undisturbed archaeology.”
Supported by Field Archaeological Specialists (FAS), this latest project will involve members of the 1980s archaeological team who carried out a dig on the Royal Burial Ground.
Time Team’s Series Producer and Creator, Tim Taylor, said: “We are incredibly thrilled to expand our relationship with Sutton Hoo, delving deeper into the history of one of Britain’s most iconic sites. The story of Sutton Hoo has captured the world’s imagination, as we can see by the success of the award-winning film The Dig, and we hope to reveal yet another exciting chapter.”
As well as the anomalies in Garden Field, the recent and first large-scale geophysics survey of the Royal Burial Ground, funded by Time Team and the Sutton Hoo Society, is continuing to grow the National Trust’s understanding of the site.

Angus added: “The discovery of the Great Ship Burial in 1939 not only stunned the archaeological world but set the scene for further exploration. Later archaeological campaigns at Sutton Hoo helped solve mysteries left by the original dig and revealed more about life in the Anglo-Saxon kingdom of East Anglia. We can’t wait to see what this next chapter will bring.”
Time Team expert, Dr Helen Geake added: “It feels so exciting that we can uncover a new area, a new part of the landscape. It's a tantalising piece of the jigsaw puzzle that we've always known a bit about, but to be able to find something new and tangible would be truly amazing.”
The National Trust will be working with archaeology volunteers to help support this project and there will be plenty of opportunities for visitors to see archaeology in action when the dig takes place this June. Keep an eye on the National Trust’s website and social media for more updates leading up to the excavation.
Time Team will document this unique investigation as it unfolds, culminating in a documentary special, presented by Sir Tony Robinson, and with a series of exclusive updates for fans on the membership platform, Patreon.
Full details of the coverage and documentary release dates will be confirmed in a future announcement.
The research project complements a separate, ongoing Time Team documentary, already in development, filming the Sutton Hoo Ship’s Company’s reconstruction of the ship at the centre of the site’s story.
Comments
Laura and Alex Tovey
I think they were letting people know immediately; there were further forms to be completed by the 31st May for people who were successful, I just noted reading back on Patreon emails...so I don't think I was successful, bit sad as I was born minutes from the Sutton Hoo site!
Ruth Farrimond
So excited about this project! Gosh I wish I could zip to the UK and be part of this dig!
Richard Seaton
I applied and still waiting hopefully!!
Alan Waters
I live in stowmarket about 10mins from ipswich in Mid suffolk.
Ive Hadenuf
Do you live in Ipswich? I lived in Ipswich MA, USA for 7 years and go to the beach there often. If I get chosen for the Sutton Hoo dig, I was looking forward to seeing the original Ipswich. I may even go as a spectator. It’s so exciting that Time Team is doing a dig at Sutton Hoo.
Ive Hadenuf
I have been having an issue with my Time Team subscription for a couple of days and finally got it fixed just now. Has anyone applied and heard that they will be volunteers on Sutton Hoo dig?
Gillian Smith
Interesting, wonder what they will find?
Anita C
I’ve just finished watching a few Time Team videos as well (including the Band of Brothers and Journey to Stonehenge digs), and decided it was time to join TT on Patreon. This news about Sutton Hoo is extremely interesting.
Time Team
Thanks for joining us, welcome to the team!
Kyle Meltzer
I just watched the video on Easy Company with Sir Tony, was inspired to join Patreon, and am furthermore so terribly excited to see this! Bravo!
Alan Waters
So looking forward to this. I live not far away and visit the site often.
Eve
So Excited for this, so much to this site and story. Even now with the a replica copy of the ship being built. History is continuing to be made.
lydia fithian
Can't wait!! Please keep us in the loop!
Stevie Moore
SO excited about this dig .. if you need any volunteers for digging or anything else .. and i do metal detecting for the right reasons ..would be a wee dream come true .. more than happy to help out . thank you so for all the hard work over the years .
Jamie Goodman
Can't wait to swing by and see the digs in action come June.
Time Team
Thanks for joining us, welcome to the team!
Mucka Tav
😃👌💯
Amethyst Gray
This is amazing news and pushed me finally to sign up with TT. June will be great!
Emily Harris
I can't wait to see the episode! Also, for everyone in the team to get a chance to dig there, it must be exciting. 😎🥳
Melissa Rybb
This is so exciting! Makes up for passing on the king in the carpark
sb welsh
This is why I rejoined my beloved Time Team!
Joshua Beadon
Just joined the community- looking forward to delving in and discovering some treasures.
Marilyn Wright
I couldn't believe this news, well done everyone at Time Team, This will be the highlight of my year!
Gary Norman
This is going to be so exciting!!!
Time Team
Thanks for joining us and welcome to the team!
Emma Robinson
This is so exciting. I’m also annoyed that I didn’t know this community existed!! As soon as I saw the National Trust post on Facebook I joined straight away. I’m a secondary history teacher in Australia, originally from UK over 30 years ago. I’ll be in the UK in June. Might have to come for a drive. Now to explore this amazing community a bit more ❤️
Lindsay Stewart
Very exciting!!!
Jon Zephanius
...and you'll have only three days to do it! XD (thank goodness not this time) Congratulations TT! What an opportunity.
Kate
Funny you should say that, Pat. My mother was Canadian and I go up to Ontario from Ohio all the time. Love it there! Yes, British, Scots and Irish heritage.
Denise
I am really excited about this as I have missed the Team's activities.
Patricia Amero
Uhhh, the good ole days. ✌😍 I think that's the general demographics on here, but I could be way off. I'm not sure how far back you can access, but the posts are great, lots of links to explore. Enjoy!!
Denise
Thank you, Patricia. I have been addicted ever since I saw the first programmes showing digs in places like Much Wenlock and we were all much younger then!
Patricia Amero
I hear you, Kate. I'm a Canadian... my ancestors are from across the pond. I'm learning so much history that I finally feel a connection to them. 💞
Patricia Amero
Isn't it just the best feeling? 🥰
Patricia Amero
👋😁 Good to have you here, Denise. As Steve said... it's addictive. A friendly group of people, fantastic 'extras', interactive polls etc. I've been here almost since day 1. I hope you enjoy all that is TT Patreon.
Patricia Amero
😂
Patricia Amero
👋😊 Welcome to the group, Pauline.
Irish Smurfette
This would indeed be lovely 😁
Kate
I'm thrilled post-TV Time Team doesn't have the constraints of network requirements and so can be less showy and more instructive. I truly appreciate the things I've learned about prehistory and British history from TT. I probably know a lot more of that than American history, but that's OK. For me it's all about the learning and I thank you all from the bottom of my heart. Bring all your brains to bear on Sutton Hoo and we shall all be enriched.
Rach
Wow what incredible news and opportunity. As a fan of TT from day one I am so excited. The late great Mick Aston would have been so proud. This will be epic,
Eggs Ackley
And no worrisome poultrygeists in sight.😵💫
Sam Lloyd
I'm from the Ipswich area and Sutton Hoo was of massive historic significance growing up. I saw the original pieces in the British Museum, and the replicas on site several times. I've always wondered what was under the uncovered mounds and the rabbit warrens. At the same time, that we know what was under the Royal mound is incredible on its own. It nearly cost a life or more to find those burials and marvels, all done because someone with means got curious about a lump of earth. I am proud to be supporting Time Team in uncovering the past for locals, interested parties and the nation. May you inspire another generation of archaeologists
Janette Menhennet
Wow. That is great news. Really looking forward to it. Well done Time Team
Patricia Amero
😄 I wish we were sitting in a coffee shop right now... a rowdy bunch having a good schmooze. 🤪
Patricia Amero
Exactly !! pun intended 👍😄
Theresa Cashin
Wonderful news! And did they ever get the Sutton Hoo ship planked?
Denise
I have missed the Time Team digs so have just joined to stay in touch with the latest adventure.
Andrew Calderwood
Really looking forward to this next adventure!
Pauline Travis
Just joined looking forward to seeing more
Kerry Hennigan
I saw the preview on YouTube... and was that Martin Carver I saw in one scene?
Karen Francis
Oh my goodness! How fascinating will that be!!
Elizabeth Nickless
I feel the same, this is so exciting, can't wait to see the geophys. results. The thought that we all helped to make this happen feels amazing.
Helena Frisk
Wow, this really is big news! My family is from the Vendel area in Uppland, Sweden, and I have been fascinated by these two sites for as long as I can remember. Helmets, boat burials and mounds are as much part of my upbringing as I am sure for the people who live close to Sutton Hoo. The fact that I, as a patreon of Time Team, can contribute to this excavation brings me immense joy. Can’t wait for the episode to air! 🙌🙌
Irish Smurfette
Hahahaha I am not. I'm one who was a teenager in the 80s and lives in the States. 😁 Pretty sure Snoop coined the shiz. 😉🤘
Eggs Ackley
“Holy shiznoly”? Sounds like something Aisling Bea would say. Are you Aisling Bea? 🤪
Eggs Ackley
Hittin’ the Big Time (Team)‼️👍
Zoe Rolfe
Think we will need to pay a visit in June. For a live dig just an hour away is too good an opportunity to miss.
Jill Desruisseau
This is amazing!!
Irish Smurfette
Holy shiznoly! WOW! Congratulations on the collab with NT and on what will surely be a wild 'n wooly experience. Love this!
Olivia Wilson
Oh my god! This is huge! So thrilled to be a small, small part of this and I'm already looking forward to dig watch, and all the other exciting content this will generate!!!!!
Melissa K.
So thrilled to be a very small part of this! What an amazing dig to look forward to!
Giles Langley
I am so looking forward to seeing this. What a super dig this will be. Hopefully there will be new things to find..
Paul Wardman
OMG this is incredible news.
Martin Gibbs
Great news! When in June is the dig. I live in Woodbridge and regularly take the dogs for a walk around the Sutton Hoo area and would love to come round and observe!
Paul Brekke
Very, very exciting news! Can't wait to follow the dig and see the new Special! Great job making this happen, Time Team! Congrats to all! :)
Jen A
Wow! Big news indeed!
Brett
Wonderful, simply wonderful...
Mick Holden
When I heard Time Team might relaunch as a crowd funded (ad)venture, I couldn't wait to get on board. From the earliest days, I had no doubt it would be a great success. The faith instilled by the National Trust in Time Team to further explore Sutton Hoo is a testament to what Tim has built and what all of us have believed in from the very beginning. Bravo! Cheers, from Texas!
Pauline R
I feel ridiculously proud of my tiny role in making this happen. :D
Bethanny Allain
Brilliant!!! So truly excited about this. So glad I joined Time Team's Patreon . Looking forward to all the updates.
Michael Sperry
Wow! This is going to be great!
Monika Schwarzbach
WOW! This is realy exciting news! Sutton Hoo is one of those sites everyone gets excited about. I'm sooooo looking forward to this.
Richard Seaton
thanks UtB - I'm in touch. We're looking at June is that right?
Denise DuBois
YEah THis is a dream!!
Elaine P
YES!!!! This is SO exciting, both for us fans but especially for the Time Team crew, so happy for you all that you get to work on Sutton Hoo. Have any of you had any sleep since you found out? What a great start to the weekend! Very much looking forward to details on how we can be involved and help support this.
Misha Jameson
Congratulations!! This is thrilling news.
Jean Bawcutt
This is so exciting.. fantastic news!
Lisa smith
Wow!! So incredibly exciting! Proud to be a longtime supporter of TT!!! Good luck team!
David Cattermoul
Helen working with her husband!
Eelco Kruidenier
Yiiiiiiihaaaaaa!!!! This is going to be a lot of fun! Good luck with the research guys.
James Leighninger
Excellent! Glad to be a supporter of TT in this new adventure!!
Carrie Hartley
Oh my word, how amazing! We have already planned our June holiday to include our second visit to SH (our first about 20 years ago) Can't wait to see the coverage 🙏
Julianne Ture
Absolutely fantastic news!
Sarah Holloway
Fantastic news !
Maurice Schot
Great news!
Neil Graham
Absolutely brilliant, can my family help
Kevin
Can I volunteer?
Under The Bodie
Can I recommend the St Margaret's Campsite in Shotisham just down the same road as a base of operations. Claire who runs the site is a professional historian I'm sure she'd love to have you
Under The Bodie
Right on my doorstep too
Kerry Hennigan
I'm so excited about this! Great news, thank you!
Andrew Gledhill
Brilliant news.
Roy Phillips
Þæt is mǣre spell!
Liz C
That's really exciting!
Kristian Nitter
Wow, incredible!
Richard Seaton
Excellent news - thanks
Justin T Donie
🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟☺️
Sally Sehlin
Wow!!!
Tracey Parrott
Brilliant news, can’t wait
Time Team
We're working on some exciting ways to involve our Patreon supporters throughout the dig, working in partnership with the National Trust. We'll be sharing more details in the weeks ahead.
Patricia Amero
😲 my archaeology, history, cool stuff geek-meter just blew off the scale !! To top it off, I get to play a small role in making history ... 🙏 Thank you so much, Time Team & TT Patreon, this is monumental.
Zoe Propper
Fantastic news. Can't wait to watch this all unfold.
Richard Seaton
Can Patreons attend and be involved in any way?
Leonie Hancock
What an opportunity so interested in what they will uncover.
Sue Tweedie
Well I never! I sam so happy to have been a very early Patron. Thank you time team for allowing me to fulfil some dreams in helping to uncover more of our wonderful past. X
Barb Wright
Absolutely stunning news, congratulations Tim, Helen, John and the whole Team!!!
Keith Gregory
Wow. Just wow. This promises to be amazing! Can’t wait!!
Bron Lloyd
Oh my giddy aunt! How wonderful!
Paul
Fantastic news! Once again Time Team has raised the bar for archeology exploration. Thank you.
Huia Matipo
So exciting, I can hardly wait! This is so exciting!
Gavin Lees
Woo (Sutton) hoo!
Jane Craven
So exciting I am looking forward to watching the progress and the finds and the scientific conclusions. Well done all.
Dinah from Kabalor
Wow wow wow! Fantastic news!
Daniel Marshall
Amazing news! What a privilege…..
Graham Dombkins
Fantastic guys! Can't wait.
Krathognis
Nice!