The Isle of Gigha Big Dig, Scotland: 3rd to 9th July 2027

Location: M7C5+GP Isle of Gigha, UK

Season: July 3, 2027 to July 9, 2027

Session Dates: 3rd to 9th July 2027

Deadline Type: Rolling

Website: https://visitgigha.co.uk/

Program Type:
Field School

RPA Certified:
No

Affiliation:
none

Project Director:
Dr Murray Cook

Project Description:

The Isle of Gigha (God’s Isle) is the most southerly of Scotland’s Hebridean Islands. Despite being only a 20 minute ferry ride from the mainland it has never been subject to any long term archaeological research projects.

2027 sees the launch of an ambitious 10 year long research project to date and characterize all of Gigha’s Celtic fortifications. Out initial focus is on a small broch-like structure (elite Iron Age tower) North Druimachro, located within easy walking distance of the ferry. The dig will be relaxed and fun with all profits supporting the Gigah community. The information will be used to improve management and interpretation on Gigha.

Join us as we continue to uncover Gigha’s Secrets.

The Gigha Big Dig is part of a wider longer term project to date and characterize Scotland’s Iron Age settlement remains. The project will be run by Dr Murray Cook an award winning archaeologist and author books – Rampart Scotland, who has conducted similar projects in Aberdeenshire, East Lothian and Stirling for over 30 years. This will be the first time in Scotland anyone has ever attempted to date an entire island’s prehistoric fortifications.

The Gigha Big Dig is part of the Gigha Archaeological festival which combines excavations, tours and lectures all run in collaboration with The Isle of Gigha Ranger Service.

The training is relaxed and easy going and you can learn as much or as little as you want to. You will have the opportunity to excavate archaeological remains that have never been examined before.

• Project Dates: 3^rd to 9^th July 2027
• Location:  Isle of Gigha.
• Project type:  Open to students and volunteers (no minimum age but children under 18 years old must be accompanied by a parent) – Places are limited so early booking is recommended.
• Accommodation:  No accommodation provided but there are numerous options on the island and the mainland
• Experience required: None, as professional archaeologists will always be on-site to provide guidance.
• Cost: £25 a day (10-3). Children free.
• Other activities:  We hope to organize trips in the evening round Gigha as part of Gigha Archaeological Festival.
• What to wear:   Scottish weather can change at any time, sometimes with four seasons in one day. It is recommended that you come prepared with a range of clothing including clothes for sunny weather, cold weather and hard rain;  light-weight clothing, a waterproof coat and stout boots, sun block and a hat are suggested.

 

Period(s) of Occupation: Celtic Iron Age

Project Size: 1-24 participants

Minimum Length of Stay for Volunteers: 1

Minimum Age: 18

Experience Required: none

Room and Board Arrangements:
Not include but lots of options on the island and the mainland which is a 30 minute ferry ride away