Unearth Rochdale's Hidden History: Join the Major Archaeological Dig at Broadfield Slopes
Ever dreamed of discovering a piece of the past? This summer, you have the unique opportunity to get your hands dirty and connect with history at a major archaeological dig on the Broadfield Slopes, right in the heart of Rochdale. Who knows, you may be the one to uncover an artefact that tells a new story about the town's fascinating origins.
The site, located just behind the iconic Rochdale Town Hall, is considered key to understanding the early development of Rochdale. Its significance stems from a natural spring that forms the Packer Spout Fountain, which provided an abundant water supply crucial for the growth of local industry.
Previous digs have already peeled back layers of time, revealing the foundations of the Victorian-era Charles Kershaw Central Corn Mill. Archaeologists also discovered a weighing station on the site—a place where residents would have weighed corn bought at the market to ensure they received a fair measure. This discovery provides a tangible link to the principle of fairness that underpinned the worldwide cooperative movement, founded right here in Rochdale.
Now, the Rochdale Development Agency is inviting the public to help uncover even more of the site’s rich history. This new dig aims to delve deeper, with a particular focus on the post-medieval period, from the 1540s to the 1760s.
This is a fantastic opportunity for adults, teenagers, and families to experience the thrill of archaeological discovery firsthand. No experience is necessary—just enthusiasm and a willingness to learn!
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Plan Your Dig
Who is this event for? This event is suitable for adults, teenagers, and families with children aged 5 or over. All children must be accompanied by an adult.
Dates: Monday, 7th July 2025 – Friday, 18th July 2025 (The event recurs daily).
Session Times: You can book a place on either a morning or an afternoon session each day.
Morning Session: 10:00 am – 12:30 pm
Afternoon Session: 1:30 pm – 4:00 pm
Location: Broadfield Park Slopes, Rochdale Town Hall, The Esplanade, Rochdale OL16 1AZ.
Cost: Free.
Booking: Booking is required. Please secure your free place online through Eventbrite.
Facilities: Tea and coffee making facilities will be available on site, alongside toilets.
Contact: The event organiser is Rochdale Development Agency. For more information, please contact: broadfieldparkslopes@investinrochdale.co.uk.
The site, located just behind the iconic Rochdale Town Hall, is considered key to understanding the early development of Rochdale. Its significance stems from a natural spring that forms the Packer Spout Fountain, which provided an abundant water supply crucial for the growth of local industry.
Previous digs have already peeled back layers of time, revealing the foundations of the Victorian-era Charles Kershaw Central Corn Mill. Archaeologists also discovered a weighing station on the site—a place where residents would have weighed corn bought at the market to ensure they received a fair measure. This discovery provides a tangible link to the principle of fairness that underpinned the worldwide cooperative movement, founded right here in Rochdale.
Now, the Rochdale Development Agency is inviting the public to help uncover even more of the site’s rich history. This new dig aims to delve deeper, with a particular focus on the post-medieval period, from the 1540s to the 1760s.
This is a fantastic opportunity for adults, teenagers, and families to experience the thrill of archaeological discovery firsthand. No experience is necessary—just enthusiasm and a willingness to learn!
.jpg)
Plan Your Dig
Who is this event for? This event is suitable for adults, teenagers, and families with children aged 5 or over. All children must be accompanied by an adult.
Dates: Monday, 7th July 2025 – Friday, 18th July 2025 (The event recurs daily).
Session Times: You can book a place on either a morning or an afternoon session each day.
Morning Session: 10:00 am – 12:30 pm
Afternoon Session: 1:30 pm – 4:00 pm
Location: Broadfield Park Slopes, Rochdale Town Hall, The Esplanade, Rochdale OL16 1AZ.
Cost: Free.
Booking: Booking is required. Please secure your free place online through Eventbrite.
Facilities: Tea and coffee making facilities will be available on site, alongside toilets.
Contact: The event organiser is Rochdale Development Agency. For more information, please contact: broadfieldparkslopes@investinrochdale.co.uk.
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