Flag Fen Archaeology Park is ending the year on a positive note as the build of its prehistoric roundhouses continues at speed following July’s devastating fire. Thanks to remarkable community and corporate support, both Iron Age and Bronze Age structures are progressing well, with one now complete and another on track for completion by the end of January.
Work on the Iron Age roundhouse rebuild is already well advanced. The walls are complete, daub is being applied and around a third of the roof is thatched. Preparations for the larger Iron Age roundhouse are also underway, with all timber now on site and outer ring of posts are in place. Together, these builds will enhance Flag Fen’s visitor experiences and educational spaces.
The new Bronze Age roundhouse is now finished, and the older structure, which has been on the site for many years, was repaired and made safe, which allowed the education programme to continue at the beginning of the academic year. The speed of this recovery has been made possible by generous backing from supporters including Anglian Water, Caterpillar and Viridor, alongside a remarkable £18,000 raised through the public appeal. Further vital contributions came from National Trust Wimpole Estate, Matt Cook of Manor Wood in Huntingdon, and Tyrell Surfacing, all of whom provided materials, expertise or labour.
Reflecting on the progress, General Manager at Flag Fen, Jacqui Mooney said:
“The destruction of our much-loved roundhouse was deeply upsetting, but the response from our community has been overwhelming. Thanks to the generosity of local people and businesses, Flag Fen has been able to rebuild far more quickly than we ever imagined. We are truly grateful to everyone who has helped us rise from the ashes. The support we’ve received shows just how important Flag Fen is to so many. These roundhouses are much more than buildings, they are at the heart of how we bring prehistory alive for our visitors.”
Flag Fen Archaeology Park remains open Friday to Sunday throughout the winter season, and visitors are warmly invited to see the remarkable progress of the roundhouse rebuilds for themselves. Alongside the developing structures, guests can explore the wider prehistoric landscape, the Museum, the iconic causeway remains, and the Bronze Age log boats.