The Archaeology & Wildlife of East Anglia15th Jun 2026

From the Broads to Sutton Hoo

The distinctive character of East Anglia can be attributed to it geography – to the north, the sea, to the west, a vast wetland, and to the south, the forests which once occupied northern Essex. With its long coastline and navigable rivers, this was a kingdom particularly suited to maritime communication, and an almost island-like territory itself on England’s coast. To its neighbours in the North Sea, however, its eastern coast was more inviting than other parts of Britian and invasion and commerce could be attempted with a better degree of success. By the time of the Norman conquest, East Anglia was the most populous part of England and thanks to the export of wool to the Lower Rhine in the Middle Ages, the most important industrial region of England until the late 17th century. This manufacturing and maritime legacy has left an architectural footprint still visible today. 

 Famous for its vast flatlands punctuated by the occasional spire or windmill, its sweeping views, long beaches and abundant wildlife, we discover some of the area’s many delights from the watery Broads to the royal burial grounds at Sutton Hoo. Led by the infinitely knowledgeable Oliver Gilkes, an archaeologist and historian who has lived in the area for many years, this is a wonderful introduction to a historically rich and beautiful part of Britain.