This year, CHTAP will be running a series of three Taster Weekends at Copped Hall, a ruined country house located near Epping in Essex. It is an important archaeological site with a complex sequence of building phases. Its recorded history starts in the 12th century.
The Taster Weekends will be open to beginners in July on the site of the earlier mansion, ‘Old’ Copped Hall, which stood at the northern end of the gardens and was demolished in 1748. The site is mainly Tudor, but previous archaeological finds have dated from the prehistoric all the way to modern times. These Taster Weekends are designed to teach the absolute basics of archaeology and excavation.
In August 2013, two five-day Field Schools will also be held for those who have already learned the basics of excavation and recording, either at Copped Hall or elsewhere, and wish to develop their skills further. The aim of the schools will be to advance the archaeology of old Copped Hall.
HALL ROUND GREAT
This is a great site on which to cut your archaeological teeth. – Excellent teaching. Directors give you the chance to get properly stuck in: work with your own little team and on your own patch. Facilities? Basic showers. Tents. Or stay in the hall. Great food made by the local ladies. All round peachy. Give it a go.
RECOMMENDATIONS
Would you recommend it? Yes
What is your top bit of advice? Go
COPPED HALL TRAINING DIG – YOU MUST TRY IT OUT.
Have done a few ‘training digs’, and this one has been the best. Made welcome from start to finish. Very friendly. Also made to feel that you are very much involved in and part of a real project. Good instruction. I think this one is especially good for beginners. (Even got proper flushing loos !!!). I’m going back this year……
RECOMMENDATIONS
Would you recommend it? Yes
What is your top bit of advice? An even better experience if you take up the option to camp for the week.