2022 Site Contenders List – EXCLUSIVE UPDATE

We’re delighted to share our updated 2022 Site Contenders list!

While research is still ongoing, we've narrowed it down to those that still currently look viable this year, while adding some very exciting new entries. (Several earlier options will remain in contention for future seasons, pending further R&D.)

Having investigated prehistoric and Roman sites in our Series 21 return, we would like to contrast and complement these for Series 22 with sites centred on other key periods of history.

Many of the 2022 Site Contenders bring us closer to pivotal moments in British history – the transition from Roman occupation to Anglo-Saxon settlement; the Norman Conquest; the rise of Medieval chivalry and knightly military orders; and exploration of the New World.

Another theme is to include sites that actively involve the local community through classic ‘back garden archaeology’ – what we call the Dig Village model.

New Poll and Site Wrestle Sessions

We'll be following up shortly with an opinion poll to get your initial thoughts on the updated list.

Then, the Site Wrestle sessions will begin – delving deeper into individual sites and providing an opportunity for you to leave more feedback.

Site Contenders

Site A: Anglo-Saxon site in Norfolk

This East Anglian site in the early Saxon heartland has revealed a number of interesting Anglo-Saxon artefacts, including several beautiful and intricate personal items on a par with some of those found at Sutton Hoo. This site, with evidence of burials, presents the opportunity to test our state-of-the-art surveying technology and post-excavation techniques to help shed new light on often-elusive Anglo-Saxon archaeology. Evidence of a possible Roman settlement adds an additional layer of intrigue to the site’s history.

Site B: Medieval priory site in the Midlands with links to the US

An intriguing site with links to the Knights Templar near an imposing Medieval castle, with its origins stretching back to the Norman Conquest. Somewhere in the United States, there is a Medieval priory, originally from England, that might just have a link with the church that claimed to be on the site of a late Roman building containing a fragment of the True Cross. Time Team want to go back to that original site and see what is left, so the priory in the United States can be linked to its original church and graveyard.

Site C: A Knights Hospitallers preceptory in the North of England

Introducing a previously un-investigated Knights Hospitallers preceptory. Although recorded in historical documents, its exact site and extent has never been firmly established. Working with the local village group and the landowners, we will be hoping to find out what an extensive complex series of mysterious earthworks are hiding. We would also like to unlock the secrets of the church there, a building itself which confuses the experts as to its date – does it contain any hidden parts of the original preceptory chapel?

Site D: Roman building beneath a housing development in Dorset

The notion of ‘history on your doorstep’ couldn’t be more apt for this site. A modern housing development was built quite literally on top of a Roman building, with evidence of mosaics. The wider area is steeped in history and has been a popular and rewarding location for classic Time Team episodes over the years. The locals have taken keen interest in their neighbourhood’s history, making this site a great contender for a ‘Dig Village’ style community test-pitting strategy.

Site E: Village community test pit site in Suffolk

Reputedly the last resting place of a Viking king defeated by King Alfred, the village also has connections to early Colonial settlers of North America. This village site offers a window into several key phases of British history and the development of villages, while being an ideal project to involve the local community in discovering more about the history that surrounds them.

Site F: A multi-period ancient Greek settlement

An incredible opportunity to lend Time Team’s support to an ongoing research project in the heart of Greece. Our friends are investigating a strategically important ancient city and stronghold, which is gradually being revealed through modern archaeological techniques. Test excavation has revealed stone structures of multiple phases, and there is the possibility of monumental archaeology on site. This is a unique chance to take Time Team overseas, collaborate with international colleagues and learn from shared practices.