Local volunteers joined the most recent archaeological dig at the top of East Lomond Hill in August. Following on from the 2019 dig, this exploratory work unearthed more history on one of the most iconic hilltops in Fife. In collaboration with Aberdeen University’s Comparative Kingship project, Dr James O’Driscoll and Falkland Stewardship Trust Chairman Joe Fitzpatrick jointly directed a 7-day excavation of the outer annexe wall of the hillfort.

Digging two new trenches out with the scheduled monument area, the excavation aimed to identify the dates of the original construction of the outer annexe… Most importantly providing soil and charcoal samples for laboratory testing and dating.

The history of East Lomond is still being unearthed through digs such as this one, which follows on from earlier work led by our former Lead Archaeologist Dr Oliver O’Grady.  The admiration and affection for Oliver – who had so ably and passionately led digs on East Lomond before his death – meant that the camaraderie and local community connection of the volunteers in 2022 was evident in spades. Feedback to the Trust was extremely positive.

The Courier offer this piece in a report on the dig and the role of Dr O’Grady’s work in getting to this point.

Volunteers coming together for a common purpose nurtures friendships and connections amongst  people of all ages. With a clear focus for the project, the participants played their part in discovering more about our local hill.  Watch the short film below to get a bit more of an insight into what the dig meant for people.

The next time you are taking a walk up Falkland Hill, as well as appreciating the delights of the view that it provides down to the Forth and to the North, consider what may be beneath your feet.

Keep an eye here for updates on findings and future dig volunteering opportunities.

With thanks and recognition to Stewardship Trust Chairman Joe Fitzpatrick for his enthusiasm and efforts in bringing this dig into being.