A Replica Iron Age Roundhouse
As the Romans made their presence known in Britain, Iron Age Britons, belonging to tribes, navigated a unique way of life. In the Chilterns, the local tribe bore the name Catuvellauni, signifying their prowess in battle. Explore the fascinating insights into the daily lives of these ancient inhabitants as we bring history to life within the walls of this Iron Age dwelling.
Recreating the Iron Age Roundhouse
The construction of the replica Iron Age Roundhouse at the Museum was a meticulous process undertaken by the Museum's building team. Drawing insights from archaeological findings, particularly from excavations at Puddlehill near Dunstable in Bedfordshire, the team used evidence gathered from post holes at the original site to recreate the structure. Despite part of the original site being lost to chalk extraction, the remaining clues provided valuable information for accurate placement.
The building of the roundhouse took place at the Museum, with dedicated efforts from members of the Manshead Archaeological Society of Dunstable. The construction spanned from November 1978 to April 1981, showcasing a collaborative effort to bring history to life. The majority of the wood utilized in the project was sourced from the Museum's site, adding an authentic touch to this captivating replica.
The construction of the Iron Age Roundhouse
The floor of our replica Iron Age Roundhouse is meticulously crafted from rammed chalk and flint, offering a sturdy surface reminiscent of ancient roundhouses discovered in the Chilterns. The walls showcase a combination of hazel and ash, intricately woven between the main posts and split-oak intermediates. An outer layer of daub, composed of clay, mud, straw, and dung, adds to the authenticity of the structure. The roof, re-thatched in 2012, is a substantial two-ton construction supported by wooden rafters. Unlike modern homes, the roundhouse lacks a chimney; instead, the hearth's smoke gracefully permeates through the thatch, leaving a protective tarry residue that contributes to the roof's preservation. Explore the craftsmanship and structural ingenuity of our Iron Age dwelling.
The Iron Age Roundhouse on TV
Sketches from the popular children’s television program Horrible Histories have been filmed around our Iron Age roundhouse along with a variety of other programs.