Ep 6. A Port and Stilton, Stilton, Cambridgeshire

Time Team Season 14 Episode 6: A Port and Stilton, Stilton, Cambridgeshire

In this captivating episode of Time Team, our expert archaeologists embark on a thrilling investigation in the picturesque village of Stilton, Cambridgeshire. Known for its famous cheese, Stilton holds a rich history waiting to be unearthed.

The team begins their exploration by focusing on the intriguing clues from the village's name itself. Could there be a link between the village and Britain's ancient trade routes? Guided by local historians, they learn that Stilton was once a bustling inland port on the Great North Road. This revelation sparks excitement among the team as they anticipate uncovering remnants of the village's maritime past.

The first site of interest is Stilton Church, a beautiful medieval building that has stood for centuries. The team delves into its history, examining its architectural features and identifying potential signs of past maritime connections. As they uncover hidden secrets within the church's structure, they start to piece together the story of Stilton's port history.

Moving to a nearby field, the team investigates whether this once overlooked area could be the remains of a long-lost harbor. Armed with ground-penetrating radar and a range of innovative technologies, they methodically scan the ground to detect any hidden structures that could be related to the ancient port. With every discovery, the team's excitement grows, confirming their belief that they are on the right track.

Tracing their steps to seek evidence of Stilton's maritime past, the team turns their attention to a seemingly ordinary village street, remarkably called Water Lane. They suspect that beneath the modern facade lies evidence of a canal that could have connected the Great Ouse River to Stilton's port. Armed with trowels and brushes, the team begins carefully excavating layers of soil, hoping to expose remnants of the canal system.

While unearthing artifacts and pottery fragments, the team uncovers echoes of the village's flavorful past. Evidence of bustling trade and commercial activity gradually emerges, painting a vivid picture of Stilton as a vibrant hub. Time Team uses their extensive knowledge of the area's history and archaeology to piece together the puzzle, revealing the interconnectedness of Stilton's port with the wider region.

Meanwhile, the team is eager to investigate a local water source, believed to have provided essential resources to the village's bustling port. They explore the significance of the ancient spring, searching for any clues that could further unveil Stilton's maritime past. As Time Team uncovers more evidence, the pieces of the puzzle start to fall into place, revealing a vibrant and prosperous community that once stood in this seemingly tranquil village.

Throughout this captivating episode, the Time Team's relentless search for answers brings the true history of Stilton to light. The villagers also embrace the opportunity to connect with their heritage, sharing personal stories and memories that enrich the archaeological discoveries.

Join Tony Robinson and his team of experts as they peel back the layers of time, uncovering the lost history of Stilton's port. With each artifact, foundation, and historical reference, they paint a vivid picture of a once-thriving community, forever etched in the annals of British history. From ancient trade routes to bustling canals, A Port and Stilton, Stilton, Cambridgeshire, presents an enthralling journey into the past like no other.