Ep 11. King Cnut's manor, Nassington

Time Team season 11 episode 11 explores the history and archaeology of King Cnut's manor in Nassington, a small village in Northamptonshire, England. Led by presenter Tony Robinson and a team of archaeologists, the episode delves into the story of King Cnut, the Viking king who ruled England in the 11th century, and his connections to the manor.

The team begins by examining the landscape and geology of Nassington, which is situated on the River Nene and has a long history of agriculture and industry. They visit the local church, which dates back to the 13th century and has a number of interesting features such as a rare Norman font and a carved wooden screen. They also speak to local residents who have knowledge of the area's history and lore.

Next, the team sets out to excavate the site of King Cnut's manor itself, which is believed to have been located along the river. They use a combination of geophysical surveying techniques and manual excavation to uncover evidence of the manor and its inhabitants. Along the way, they discover a number of fascinating artifacts, including pottery, animal bones, and even a medieval sword.

As they piece together the history of the manor, the team begins to unravel the story of King Cnut and his connections to the area. They learn that the manor was likely a royal hunting lodge used by the king and his retinue, and that it was also the site of a major battle between Cnut's forces and the Anglo-Saxons in the late 10th century.

Throughout the episode, the team also explores the broader historical context of the area, including the Viking invasions of England, the Norman Conquest, and the later development of the region's agriculture and industry. They speak with experts in various fields, including archaeology, geology, and history, to gain a deeper understanding of the site and its significance.

Overall, Time Team season 11 episode 11 offers a fascinating glimpse into the history and archaeology of King Cnut's manor in Nassington, showcasing the skills and expertise of the Time Team crew as they work to uncover the secrets of the past.