Classic Time Team Season 1 Episode 3 The New Town of a Norman Prince

The New Town of a Norman Prince is the third episode of the first season of Classic Time Team. In this episode, the Time Team travels to the sleepy village of Henley-on-Thames to investigate the remains of a forgotten medieval town that once belonged to Prince Richard, the third son of William the Conqueror.

The team begins by exploring the picturesque streets of Henley-on-Thames, a charming town that has changed little since Richard's time. Guided by local historian Jill Eyers, they learn about Richard's life and his ambitious plans to build a new town on the banks of the River Thames.

With the help of geophysicist Stewart Ainsworth, the team begins to uncover the hidden secrets of Richard's lost town. Using ground-penetrating radar and other high-tech equipment, they detect the outlines of houses, streets, and even a castle that were buried beneath the ground for centuries.

As the excavation continues, the team discovers a wealth of artifacts that shed new light on Richard's life and the way he lived. They find an intricate system of water pipes that once supplied the town's inhabitants with fresh water, along with cooking pots, jewelry, and other objects that provide clues about the daily lives of Richard's subjects.

But as the days pass, the team begins to encounter unexpected challenges. Heavy rain and flooding threaten to derail their plans, while disagreements between the experts threaten to tear the team apart. Meanwhile, deadly adders lurk in the undergrowth, posing a constant danger to the archaeologists.

Despite these obstacles, the Time Team perseveres, determined to uncover the secrets of Richard's long-forgotten town. With thrilling discoveries and unexpected twists, The New Town of a Norman Prince is a fascinating glimpse into the world of medieval England, and a showcase for the ingenuity and perseverance of the Time Team.