Uncovering the Lost Medieval Secrets of Hilton Castle - Sunderland Archaeology | Time Team - S2 E2

Discover the hidden history beneath Sunderland’s Hilton Castle as archaeologists uncover medieval secrets and centuries-old mysteries in just three days!

Join the Time Team as they dig deep into the story of Hilton Castle, a centuries-old structure surrounded by a modern housing estate but rooted in medieval drama and intrigue. This episode follows a whirlwind archaeological investigation, revealing how much more lies beneath the surface than meets the eye. Using geophysics surveys, earthwork mapping, and hands-on trench digging, the team seeks evidence of Baron William Hilton’s 15th-century castle and the grand buildings and elaborate gardens that once dominated the landscape.

Watch as local volunteers and experts work together to map ancient walls, uncover Flemish floor tiles, and reconstruct what life was like for the powerful Hylton family. Along the way, discover surprising finds - from Elizabethan coins to medieval jugs and even mysterious tunnels. Learn how the site evolved from a defensive fortress to a showcase of wealth and status, complete with ornate water gardens and impressive architecture. Whether you’re passionate about medieval history, community heritage, or the thrill of archaeological discovery, this episode delivers new insights into Sunderland’s past and the vibrant future planned for Hilton Castle.

#Archaeology #TimeTeam #HiltonCastle #MedievalHistory #Sunderland #CastleRestoration #CommunityHeritage #Geophysics