Mysterious Moot Hill near Wymondham to open to public

But next month, the public will have a rare opportunity to see one of Norfolk's most intriguing archaeological sites - Moot Hill.

Despite its significance, the site, near Wymondham, has had little archaeological investigations – only a few small digs in the 1930s, which were never fully recorded.

The site is believed to be a Norman ringwork - a fortified defensive structure - potentially linked to the D'Albini family, who were prominent nobles in Norfolk during medieval times.

Moot Hill in Wymondham (Image: Norfolk Archaeological Trust)

Or it could contain remains of an Iron Age settlement dating back more than 2,000 years.

It has been shut to the public for years - closed off because of safety concerns and damage caused by unchecked tree growth.

Placed on Historic England's Heritage At Risk register - a list of sites and buildings which experts fear are in danger of neglect or decay - its future looked bleak.

Moot Hill is to the south of Kett's Park in Wymondham (Image: Google Maps)

However, earlier this year, thanks to the generosity of a mystery donor, it was acquired by Norfolk Archaeological Trust, which runs other archaeological sites, such as the Roman town of Venta Icenorum at Caistor St Edmund and St Benet's Abbey on the Broads.

Since acquiring the site, which is on Hart's Farm Road, at the top of Kett's Park, the trust has begun surveys, safety works and conservation planning aimed at securing its long-term future, while balancing the needs of archaeology, wildlife and public access.

As part of Heritage Open Days next month, visitors will get the opportunity to visit the site for the first time since the trust bought it.

During the event, visitors will hear directly from members of the project team about the site’s significance, and the challenges and opportunities involved in protecting this important piece of Norfolk’s heritage.

They will also learn how community involvement is helping to shape the future of the site.

Natalie Butler (Image: Norfolk Archaeological Trust)

Natalie Butler, director of Norfolk Archaeological Trust, said: "Opening Moot Hill to the public for the first time is a major milestone for the trust and for the local community.

"This is a rare opportunity to visit a site that has been inaccessible for many years, learn about its fascinating history, and hear about our plans to ensure it can be enjoyed by future generations."

Moot Hill in Wymondham (Image: Norfolk Archaeological Trust)

The open days are from 3pm until 7pm on Thursday, September 17 and 11am to 3pm on Sunday, September 20.

Places are limited and advance booking is essential.

Booking, at https://norfolkhods.ticketsolve.com, opens at 10am on Thursday, August 26.