Name: Digging For Cusop
Start: 2026-06-05T09:30:00-07:00
End: 2026-06-14T16:00:00-07:00
Location: Cusop Castle

Question 1

How many volunteers are required?

Accepted Answer

Each day will consist of two 3-hour time slots, from 9.30 – 12.30 and 1.00 – 4.00. Volunteers
can therefore choose whether to participate for part or full days. Bookings will be
taken on a ‘first come, first served’ basis up to a maximum of 12 per session for physical work and 6 for support work.

Question 2

What activities are involved? Is any previous experience required?

Accepted Answer

Activities will be varied, from ‘heavy digging’ to trowelling, surveying and the washing
and recording of objects. No experience is required and all training and tools will be
provided. As well as physical work volunteers are also required for dig support activities.

Question 3

Is there any cost involved, and how do I prepare for the day?

Accepted Answer

Participation is free. All volunteers will need to dress appropriately for a variety of
weather conditions, including walking boots or similar even in hot weather.
Refreshments and toilet facilities will be provided.

Question 4

Can children take part in the dig?

Accepted Answer

Children below 12 cannot take part in the dig. Young people between the
ages of 12 and 15 can take part if accompanied by a responsible adult.
The adult will also need to sign up as a volunteer and take an active role in the work
on site. Each adult can only be responsible for one young person.

Question 5

What is the objective of Digging for Cusop?

Accepted Answer

This is the first Community Dig at Cusop Castle. 2023 surveys questioned its identity as a ‘castle’ and suggest possible late prehistoric origins with later reuse. Six trenches will explore a masonry structure and complex earthworks to discover more on this unusual site.

Question 6

Can I just turn up and see what's happening?

Accepted Answer

No - you must be registered for insurance purposes. The Dig is on private land and small group visits may be arranged via Cusop History Group (cusophistory@gmail.com) at pre-arranged times.

Digging For Cusop