Rare Iron Age Hoard Found In Norfolk
A remarkable collection of Iron Age objects from around 2,000 years ago has been discovered in West Norfolk.
The hoard of metal objects was found during a routine archaeological excavation by Pre-Construct Archaeology as part of the standard planning process for residential properties.
The discovery includes a near-complete Iron Age battle trumpet or carnyx and parts of another. These animal-headed bronze instruments were used by Celtic tribes across Europe to inspire their warriors in battle and fascinated the Romans who frequently depicted them as war trophies. This newly excavated example is one of only three known from Britain and is one of the most complete found in Europe.
The hoard also includes a sheet-bronze boar’s head, originally from a military standard. Five shield bosses and an iron object of unknown origin complete the assemblage. The finds are rare, not only in a British context, but from across Europe.
Following discovery, the objects were carefully lifted within a block of soil from the site. Initial scanning took place to reveal how the items were positioned within the soil block.
Conservation experts at Norfolk Museums Service were then able to remove each object for preliminary examination. The items are in a very fragile condition and require extensive stabilisation work before detailed research can begin.
Historic England is working with Pre-Construct Archaeology, Norfolk Museums Service and the National Museum of Scotland to coordinate research and conservation.
The initial discovery will feature in the next series of BBC’s Digging for Britain, which will be broadcast from 7 January 2026.
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