Discover the prehistoric crime scene of the Whixall Moss bog bodies

Peatlands preserve organic archaeological remains rarely encountered elsewhere, from prehistoric trackways to bog bodies. Not only can they preserve the materials that normally rot away, but the peat itself holds the secret of past environments and climates. In the case of bog bodies, we can use this evidence to build detailed pictures of the ‘crime scene’ associated with their deaths.

Sign up for our free weekend workshops where we will be combining fieldwork with forensic laboratory analysis to help us learn more about the bog bodies and the changing environment of Whixall Moss. On Saturdays we will be coring into the peat of the moss to understand how it has developed physically over time. On Sundays we will move into the ‘lab’ to examine the microscopic remains of pollen preserved in the peat, allowing us to build up a picture of how the vegetation of the moss has changed through time. Through these activities we will gradually develop a deeper understanding of the circumstances surrounding the three mysterious prehistoric deaths at Whixall Moss.

Booking is essential. All training and guidance will be provided. You must wear appropriate clothing and footwear for the outdoor work on the bog on Saturdays, and bring water and snacks. The activity site is roughly a 1 mile walk from the reserve base, the path to the site is flat but undulating, with no stiles or steps. The activity area is off the tracks, the area is flat but with tussocky, long vegetation, can get wet and has overgrown ditch edges. A reasonable level of fitness is required.

You are welcome to join us for anything from a single session to full engagement through the entire process. Our weekend workshops will be continuing from now until summer 2027 – watch this space for new events!

Whilst under-18s are welcome to attend the events if accompanied by a parent or legal guardian, they may not complete the voluntary feedback questionnaire issued at the end of the event.

These partnership events are led by Dr Michelle Farrell (Coventry University) and Prof Henry Chapman (University of Birmingham). The project is funded by the British Academy, the Royal Academy of Engineering and the Royal Society, with generous support from the Leverhulme Trust.

Description supplied by the event organiser.