Ep 2. West

In season 3, episode 2 of Digging for Britain, titled West, viewers follow archaeologists as they uncover new artifacts and historical insights pertaining to life in western Britain during different time periods. The episode spans various sites across the region, including those associated with the Iron Age, Roman occupation, and Anglo-Saxon settlements.

The episode begins by highlighting the discovery of a rare sword found in a bog in the Cornish village of Ladock. This sword, which dates back to the Iron Age, has been preserved remarkably well due to the unique composition of the bog and provides new clues about the weapons used during this period.

Next, the show visits the Roman city of Bath and its impressive public baths. Here, archaeologists are delving into the underground structures to uncover more clues about the daily life of Roman citizens in the city. They uncover intricate heating systems and pipes that allowed the baths to function, as well as personal belongings like jewelry and coins.

Moving on to the Anglo-Saxon era, the show explores a site in Gloucestershire where a long-lost church is being excavated. The discovery of Anglo-Saxon graves at this site suggests that this was a significant religious center for this period and could provide new insight into the spread of Christianity in early medieval Britain.

Finally, the episode concludes in the southwest region of Devon, where archaeologists are exploring a site that was home to a large Iron Age hillfort and later a Roman villa. The juxtaposition of these two historical periods in one location provides a unique opportunity to study how these two cultures interacted and influenced each other.

Throughout the episode, viewers are treated to expert insights from archaeologists, historians, and other experts who help contextualize the significance of these discoveries. The show also utilizes cutting-edge technology like 3D modeling and computer simulations to help visualize how these ancient sites would have looked and functioned during their respective time periods.

Overall, Digging for Britain season 3, episode 2 provides a fascinating and educational look at the rich history of western Britain and the new discoveries that continue to shed light on this period.