Avalon Archaeology

Run by the South West Heritage Trust, Avalon Archaeology is a living reconstruction of Somerset’s Iron Age, Roman, Saxon and Viking heritage – lovingly built and maintained by over 110 volunteers since 2015.  Nestled in the Avalon Marshes, it serves as a hands‑on open‑air museum blending community archaeology, experimental craft, and immersive history. Avalon Archaeology uniquely brings Somerset’s ancient past to life through hands‑on reconstruction using local materials and volunteer craftsmanship. The site is educational, atmospheric, and ideal for families or community groups interested in archaeology, early history, and traditional craft. Local directories, cultural listings, heritage trails, educational tourism guides, and anyone seeking immersive historical visits near Glastonbury.

Highlights:

• Roman villa dining room, complete with hypocaust heating, frescoes, and a 140,000‑piece mosaic created by volunteers using authentic local materials (white, blue, grey lias, yellow Doulting stone and reclaimed red tile) replicating geometric motifs from nearby villas.
• Saxon longhall, modelled on a late 9th‑century hall excavated at Cheddar; showcases wattle‑and‑daub wallwork, glazing inspired by Jarrow designs, and a storytelling mural depicting King Alfred.
• Iron Age roundhouse  reflecting evidence from Glastonbury Lake Village, including wattle‑and‑daub construction and shuttered windows based on fossil‑bearing timbers.
• Authentic Viking trading vessel, a full‑size water‑line replica of the Skuldelev 3 ship (named “The Walrus”) built by the National Maritime Museum Cornwall, illustrating peaceful maritime trade in the Viking era.
• The oldest surviving excavation hut in the world, originally used 1910–1956 by archaeologists Bulleid & Gray; now houses a mini‑cinema showing films about local archaeology and reconstructions of early finds.

Visitor Info:

• General admission: Adults £5.25; concessions £3.50; children (5–17) £3.50; under‑5s free; family tickets available. Card‑only payment accepted.
• Facilities: onsite café, craft gallery, toilets, accessible paths, some wheelchair‑friendly access to all main displays; assistance dogs allowed, general visitors’ dogs restricted.
• Avalon Archaeology is open for visits on Sundays 10.00 am – 4.00 pm. Your admission entitles you to free entry for the remainder of the calendar year so you can come back as many times as you like!
• There are regular guided Discovery Tours, family events, immersive workshop experiences and performances. It is also possible to book a Group Visit giving you exclusive access. The Saxon Longhall is available for celebrant-led weddings too!