The second episode of “Digging for Britain”‘s 12th season shifts its focus to Central Britain, where Professor Alice Roberts guides viewers through an eclectic mix of archaeological discoveries, including remarkably large dinosaur footprints and the remains of a luxurious Roman farmstead.
In Oxfordshire, a quarryman stumbles upon a truly prehistoric find: a set of enormous dinosaur footprints, a tangible reminder of the giants that once roamed this land. The discovery opens a window into a distant past, providing valuable information about the creatures that inhabited Britain millions of years ago.
In Northamptonshire, a metal-detectorist’s discovery leads to the excavation of a lavish Roman farmstead, complete with a bathhouse and intricate mosaics. This glimpse into Roman domestic life paints a picture of the comforts and luxuries enjoyed by some during the Roman occupation of Britain.
A community dig in Irchester offers a different perspective on Roman Britain, revealing how the Romans administered newly conquered territories and cared for disabled members of the community. These insights help create a more nuanced understanding of Roman society and its interactions with the local population.
From dinosaurs to Romans, this episode of “Digging for Britain” demonstrates the rich tapestry of history buried beneath the British landscape.
Digging for Britain: Central Dinosaur Highway and Roman Sauna airs Wednesday 8 January 2025 at 8:00 pm on BBC Two.
