The fifth consecutive year of archaeological excavations at Bremenium Fort, High Rochester in Northumberland National Park has delivered its most remarkable season yet, with more artefacts and structural discoveries found than ever before.

Thanks to funding from The National Lottery Heritage Fund to the Redesdale Archaeological Group (RAG) the project continues to thrive, bringing together volunteers, students, experts, and the local community.

This year’s archaeological dig involved 44 adult volunteers, who contributed a combined 2,080 hours, alongside three young participants, including a 15-year-old who worked six consecutive days. 24 archaeology students from Newcastle University joined for two weeks, also contributing 2,080 hours, and were hosted at Rochester Village Hall.

Extraordinary finds and fort insights

The excavations revealed further structural remains and artefacts, including:

-Roman pottery from across the Empire: Samian Ware (decorated and plain), Black Burnished Ware, Grey Ware, Nene Valley Ware, Mortaria, and Amphora, one of which, made in Northern Spain, may have been used to transport olive oil to the fort.

-Military items: a spearhead and a slinger’s lead shot which are typical items in a Roman soldiers and auxiliaries’ kit.

-Personal items: a votive oil lamp usually used decoratively to light altars, and a lead seal for official documents.

-Jewellery: two intaglios, which are uniquely engraved gemstones used for jewellery one of exceptional quality, and several brooches, including intact dolphin-style pieces with preserved enamelling.

-Organic finds: The conditions in the lower parts of the trench were waterlogged, preserving items which don’t survive in dry conditions. These included a length of wood and, incredibly, a preserved piece of fruit, possibly a plum!

-Wall heights and construction layers suggest the building found was rebuilt at least three times, with earlier phases demolished and covered in clay before new construction began.

Chris Jones, Historic Environment Officer at Northumberland National Park Authority, praised the dig’s impact: “The archaeology of High Rochester continues to reveal its secrets, and it’s inspiring to see so many people, of all ages, engaged in the uncovering of their shared heritage. These discoveries help us understand how people in the past lived from the remains they left behind which has made such a lasting imprint on the landscape.

“Community led projects like this help us to better understand one of the most important sites in the National Park, improving the advice we give to the farmers and land managers who look after our shared heritage.

Bob Jackson of Redesdale Archaeological Group (RAG) who has overseen multiple seasons at the site, added: “This year’s finds are exceptional, in both quantity and quality. The range of pottery and metalwork, especially the amphora and the intact brooches, offer new insights into trade, craftsmanship, and daily life at Bremenium. It’s a privilege to work with such a committed team.

“Thanks must go to everyone who plays the lottery for making this contribution possible. Thanks also to Newcastle University and RAG for their contributions to the funding of this project.”

Community Involvement

The dig welcomed numerous visitors, including residents and tourists. Larger groups included children’s charities, Kid’s Kabin, and North Tyne Youth community group, North East Sight Matters through Northumberland National Park’s Healthy Park, Healthy People project, and North Tynedale University of the Third Age.

The National Lottery Heritage Fund contributed nearly £50K towards the costs of running the dig, as well as Newcastle University and RAG.

There are plans to return to the site next year to further explore this important site.