Archaeologists are inviting residents to dig beneath Barnard Castle in a mission to find what's buried there.

The initiative, led by DigVentures , seeks to explore the Outer Ward of the historic castle, renowned for its rich medieval past.

Residents, both adults and children, can take part in the dig, go on a guided tour, or engage in other activities such as a pop-up museum, artefact classes, and community workshops.(Image: DigVentures)

The Outer Ward, one of four wards surrounding the castle, is believed to have once housed a medieval church, farm buildings, and a gate tower.

The excavation is part of a pilot project funded by Historic England and led by the Cultura Trust, in collaboration with landowner Raby Estates.

The project aims to investigate the Outer Ward and make it accessible to the public once more.(Image: Newsquest)

It is also part of a larger scheme to revitalise disused buildings along Barnard Castle’s high street for use by community and heritage organisations.

The project is not just about uncovering history; it is also about involving the community in the process.

Alongside the excavation, DigVentures is gathering information to help Cultura Trust and Raby Estates understand how residents would like the site to be used in the future, and which heritage activities can be included in a long-term programme for the community's benefit.(Image: DigVentures)

The castle, which has been under the guardianship of English Heritage since 1984, was built by the Balliol family following the Norman conquest.

It was later given to the Earls of Warwick and subsequently to the soon-to-be King Richard III.

Now in ruins, the castle stands above the River Tees, attracting numerous visitors to the town.

The excavation is scheduled to take place from November 18 to 20.(Image: DigVentures)

For children aged six to 12, an Archaeology DigCamp will be held on November 16, while those aged 12 to 16 can participate in an Archaeology DigClub on November 17.

Free guided tours of the archaeological dig will be available from November 16 to 20, and a pop-up museum will be open from December 11 to 14.

Community workshops and classes will run from December to January.

Here's the full schedule:

  • Dig with archaeologists at Barnard Castle (18 – 20 November 2024)
  • Archaeology DigCamp at Barnard Castle, ages 6-12 (16 November 2024)
  •  Archaeology DigClub at Barnard Castle, ages 12-16 (17 November 2024)
  •  Free Guided Tours: Archaeology Dig at Barnard Castle (16 – 20 November 2024)
  • Pop-up Museum (11 – 14 December 2024)
  • Community workshops and classes (December 2024 – January 2025)

For more information https://digventures.com/projects/barnard-castle/(Image: DigVentures)