Vast first-century hoard reveals 'real wealth' of iron age communities in north of England

One of the biggest and most important iron age hoards ever found in the UK has been revealed, potentially altering our understanding of life in Britain 2,000 years ago.

- Mark Brown

More than 800 objects were unearthed in a field near the village of Melsonby, North Yorkshire. They date back to the first century, around the time of the Roman conquest of Britain under Emperor Claudius, and are almost certainly associated with a tribe called the Brigantes, who controlled most of northern England.

Among the objects are parts from wagons and/or chariots including 28 iron tyres, elaborate harnesses for at least 14 horses, bridle bits, ceremonial spears and two beautifully ornate cauldrons, one of which was probably used as a wine mixing bowl.

Experts involved in the find, described as being of international importance, say the objects may lead to a reassessment of how we understand subjects such as wealth, status, trade and travel among Britain's iron age tribes.

The hoard was discovered and reported just before Christmas 2021 by a metal detectorist, Peter Heads, who got a reading, dug a hole and realised he needed expert help.

He contacted Prof Tom Moore, the head of archaeology at Durham University, who had been conducting research in the area.

Moore saw right away the potential significance of what had been uncovered but had no idea it would be of such a jaw-dropping scale.