Unravel the secrets of a 3,500-year-old mystery as ancient wooden timbers reveal their enigmatic history along the Thames at Vauxhall. Discover the fascinating possibilities of these remnants—could they have supported London’s first bridge, or were they a pier for votive offerings? As we race against the tides, our team faces the challenges of examining these relics and the Bronze Age spearheads linked to them, all while confronting the threat of erosion. Join us in reconstructing the ancient landscape and uncovering the purpose of this mysterious structure.

In our quest to unlock the past, we explore a flooded archaeological site brimming with Bronze Age artifacts. The intentional placement of found spearheads suggests ritualistic offerings, reminiscent of sites like Flag Fen. From experimenting with pile driving techniques to conducting diatom analysis, our endeavors face setbacks from unpredictable tides. Yet the potential for this structure to be part of a bridge or ceremonial platform keeps us driven. Our journey includes the discovery of oak wood chips and organic mud layers, shedding light on the mid-Bronze Age environment.

Our investigation takes a thrilling turn with the revelation of an embayment along the Bronze Age waterfront, reshaping our theories. Experience the meticulous work of our team, as we grapple with weather challenges and power outages, all while simulating ancient timber construction techniques. As we piece together the past, the oak timbers may lead us to the oldest known bridge on the Thames. Our efforts reveal the engineering prowess and the spiritual motivations of those who once thrived in London’s ancient floodplains and marshes.