Ep 3. Digging For Britain - Episode 3

In episode three of the fifth season of Digging For Britain, viewers are taken on an archaeological journey across the UK, uncovering fascinating discoveries from the Roman invasion to the Middle Ages.

The episode begins in northern England, where experts are exploring a Roman Army fort on the banks of the River Tyne. Recently, a team of metal detectorists found an incredibly rare Roman eagle sculpture, and the archaeologists are hoping to uncover more evidence of the fort's history. With the help of a drone, they get a bird's eye view of the site and discover mysterious crop marks that could indicate the presence of a previously unknown Roman settlement.

Next up is a visit to a medieval castle in Oxfordshire, where archaeologists are investigating the remains of a 12th-century building that was once a royal palace. The team discovers evidence of luxurious living quarters, including a fireplace and a medieval toilet, suggesting that the occupants of the palace were living in relative comfort. They also uncover a mysterious underground chamber that may have served as a dungeon or a storage space.

Moving across the country to the south coast, the show visits an excavation on the outskirts of Brighton, where archaeologists are investigating a Roman villa that was once a grand country estate. The team uncovers evidence of a working farm, complete with livestock pens and grain stores, and discovers a rare piece of Roman glassware inscribed with the name "Tiberianus". This discovery sheds new light on the villa's occupants and their social status.

Back in the north, the show focuses on a Viking hoard that was discovered in Lancashire in 2011. Made up of more than 200 coins and other artefacts, the hoard is one of the largest Viking finds in the UK. The episode explores the significance of the hoard and what it tells us about the Viking presence in the north of England.

Finally, the show travels to Wales to explore a prehistoric burial site that was discovered in the 1990s. The site, known as Arthur's Stone, is believed to date back to the Neolithic period, over 4,000 years ago. Archaeologists are still trying to uncover the full extent of the site and its significance, but the episode explores the theories that have been put forward so far.

Overall, Digging For Britain season five episode three offers a fascinating insight into the history of the UK, from Roman invasions to Viking hoards and prehistoric burials. With expert analysis and stunning visuals, the episode is a must-see for anyone interested in archaeology and history.