New Exhibition - Mesolithic Life at the Yorkshire Museum

This summer, the Yorkshire Museum is bringing the ancient past to life with a unique hands-on event in York’s Museum Gardens. From August 7 to September 1, visitors will have the rare opportunity to witness the construction of a Mesolithic house and delve into the lives of our ancestors from 11,000 years ago.

The project, spearheaded by the York Museums Trust in collaboration with the University of York, will utilize authentic techniques and materials discovered at the renowned prehistoric site of Star Carr in Yorkshire.

Building Britain’s Oldest House

Starting August 7, a team of experts in ancient technology and archaeology, including Professor Nicky Milner and Dr. Jess Bates from the University of York, along with specialists Diederik Pomstra and Leo Wolterbeek, will embark on constructing a replica of the oldest known house in Britain.

This reconstruction is grounded in meticulous research from Star Carr, one of the most significant Mesolithic sites in Europe. The house will be built using stone tools and plant materials similar to those used by the Mesolithic inhabitants of the region.

Dr. Adam Parker, Curator of Archaeology at York Museums Trust, highlights the educational value of the project:

“This is an extraordinary opportunity to experience a Mesolithic build using evidence-based information such as the tools and the resources much of which we are showing in the Museum. Taking our lead from Star Carr, we are able to harness and harvest materials from the environment that will be similar to the components these people utilized all those years ago.”

Professor Nicky Milner adds,

“We are really excited to be working with experts in the Museum Gardens to replicate the earliest known structures in Britain. It is a rare opportunity to really demonstrate the immense skill and ingenuity of Mesolithic people. We hope it will transport visitors back to life in North Yorkshire over 11,000 years ago!”

An Immersive Experience

The build will be completed by August 11, remaining in place until September 1. During the construction period, from August 7-11, the University of York will host various activities, including hands-on opportunities, daily short talks, and on-site demonstrations by the excavation team from Star Carr. Visitors will be able to handle replica objects and learn more about Mesolithic life.

Engaging Activities for All Ages

Throughout August, the Yorkshire Museum will offer a series of engaging activities for visitors of all ages. These activities are designed to complement the Mesolithic house build and the "Life After the Ice" exhibition inside the museum, which showcases artifacts and tools from Star Carr.

Creative Family Wednesdays: Star Carr Special!

On Wednesdays (August 7, 14, 21, and 28), families can drop in anytime between 10:30 AM and 3:30 PM for artist-run creative workshops inspired by the Star Carr exhibition. These sessions are held outdoors in Museum Gardens next to the Mesolithic Hut and do not require booking.

Star Carr Storytelling

Every Thursday (August 15, 22, and 29), Hoglet’s Theatre Company will host immersive storytelling sessions that transport participants to the prehistoric world of Star Carr. Sessions are held multiple times a day and are suitable for the entire family.

Star Carr Skills Weekend

On the weekend of August 17-18, expert Chris Woodland will demonstrate Mesolithic craftsmanship, teaching visitors how to turn nettles into twine and shale into decorative pendants. These drop-in sessions run from 10:30 AM to 4:00 PM.

Into Wilderness Bushcraft Adventures

From August 30 to September 1, the Into Wilderness team will lead bushcraft workshops that immerse participants in the skills and techniques used by Mesolithic people. These hands-on sessions run throughout the day and offer a unique perspective on ancient life.

Discover "Life After the Ice" Exhibition

Inside the Yorkshire Museum, the "Life After the Ice" exhibition, which opened in March 2024, offers an in-depth look at human life 11,000 years ago. The exhibition features an array of artifacts from Star Carr, including antler headdresses, a decorated stone pendant, the world's oldest complete hunting bow, and Europe's earliest evidence of carpentry. Interactive displays, soundscapes, and murals provide a vivid glimpse into the Mesolithic period.

Visiting Information

The Mesolithic house build and related activities are free and take place in the Museum Gardens, accessible via entrances on Lendal Bridge and Marygate. The Yorkshire Museum itself is open Tuesday to Sunday from 10 AM to 5 PM, with ticket prices at £9.50 for adults and £4.75 for children. Tickets are valid for 12 months, and children of York residents can enter for free.

For more details and to plan your visit, check the Yorkshire Museum’s official website: www.yorkshiremuseum.org.uk.