Archaeological excavations at Divet Hill Quarry in Capheaton, Northumberland, have revealed significant remnants of early medieval life, providing a detailed look into the daily existence of people over a thousand years ago. The site has yielded the remains of at least five timber buildings, along with various pits and potential oven structures. Radiocarbon dating indicates occupation from the 6th to 7th centuries and again from the 11th to 12th centuries.
This discovery is the result of a collaboration between Breedon Group and Archaeological Services WYAS, with guidance from Northumberland County Council. Niall Kelly, Planning and Estates Manager at Breedon Group, highlighted the regionally significant nature of the findings. Councillor John Riddle of Northumberland County Council emphasized the historical richness of the region and the crucial role of developer-funded archaeology in expanding the county's historical narrative. He noted that these excavations reveal aspects of everyday life, including farming, trade, and community dynamics, underscoring that history is shaped by the experiences of ordinary people. The excavation is expected to continue for another two years, with post-excavation analysis planned to offer more in-depth insights. Following this, the area is scheduled for restoration for agricultural grassland and nature conservation.
The findings at Divet Hill Quarry align with a broader pattern of early medieval settlement discoveries in Northumberland. For example, recent excavations in the Quantock Hills in April 2025 uncovered a lost Saxon cemetery and evidence of Bronze Age rituals. The ongoing work at Divet Hill Quarry offers a unique opportunity to study the lives of those who inhabited this landscape during the early to mid-medieval periods, providing a tangible connection to their activities and their relationship with the environment. Northumberland's historical tapestry is continually enriched by such discoveries. Research into early medieval settlements in the Milfield Basin, for instance, has revealed significant sites, with Yeavering being a nationally important center that has undergone extensive excavation. The evidence from these sites, including timber buildings and pits, mirrors the findings at Divet Hill Quarry, suggesting a shared pattern of settlement and activity across the region during these periods. The collaboration between Breedon Group and Archaeological Services WYAS demonstrates how industrial development can contribute to our understanding of the past, ensuring that the narrative of human history is preserved and expanded for future generations.