Unearthing the Past Together
Discovering Broomfield Park’s Archaeological Heritage
Over two lively weekends this spring, Broomfield Park became the site for an Archeological exploration led by the Enfield Archaeological Society (EAS). This was part of the "Unlocking Broomfield for the Community" initiative, backed by the National Lottery Heritage Fund. The project excavated part of the park’s historic gardens in search of an 18th-century water channel - and brought the public right into the heart of the action.
More than 350 locals engaged through the outreach programme. Around 40% of excavation volunteers were new to archaeology, and their enthusiasm was matched by curious park visitors, children playing archaeologist-for-a-day at the Open Day sandpits, and Year Five pupils from Hazelwood Primary School, who explored artefacts and excavation techniques both on-site and in their classrooms.
A highlight was seeing first-hand how archaeological interpretation evolves—from early sketches to real trench discoveries—and how even a humble fragment of pottery can unlock stories of everyday life.
The dig offered not only insights into Broomfield’s past but a glimpse into what community-led heritage can achieve.
- Download the full outreach report.
- Read the technical excavation report on the Enfield Archaeological Society website
