While carrying out excavations ahead of a construction project in Dover, archaeologists unearthed a pit full of pipes and wine jugs that they believe to be the remnants of a centuries-old pub.
Hadley Paul Garland/Wikimedia CommonsAn example of Bellarmine jugs from the 17th century similar to those recently found in Dover.
Amid ongoing work at the site of a former nightclub in Dover, England, archaeologists have unearthed hundreds of artifacts from what they believe to be a centuries-old pub.
The team from Canterbury Archaeological Trust uncovered a pit containing hundreds of clay pipes, German wine bottles, and Bellarmine jugs, adding to a growing collection of historical items found near the site. The team has been working since April to develop a new creative and digital hub — and has made numerous discoveries along the way.
A Historical Pub Beneath The Site Of A Former Nightclub
While excavating the site of the future Dover Beacon, archaeologists came across what seemed to be a centuries-old trash pit.
Ross Lane of the Canterbury Archaeological Trust, who is leading the dig at the site, told the BBC, “A pit contained lots of refuse material including the clay pipes.”
The team also found several Bellarmine jugs, glazed stoneware imported from Germany that was common in the 16th and 17th centuries. They unearthed wine bottles, as well, which could further support the idea that the site held a pub hundreds of years ago.
Google MapsThe site on Bench Street in Dover where excavations are now taking place.
“We think because it was associated with smoking and drinking that a lot of the Bellarmine ware was brought over from Germany containing wine, so perhaps it was the backyard of a public house that was fronting onto Bench Street,” Lane said.
The team expected to make some fascinating discoveries while working at the site, as it has proven to be a treasure trove before. In 1992, archaeologists found a Bronze Age boat in the area, and a medieval spindle wheel was also uncovered there.
“Finding another Bronze Age boat would be something wouldn’t it?” said Jamie Pout, deputy leader of the Dover District Council. “To think about some really historic things that were going on right here is quite special.”
All of this archaeological work is being carried out as part of the Dover Beacon project, a new community space the council says will be “iconic.”
Future Plans For The Dover Beacon Project
After receiving millions of dollars in government funding to bring the Dover Beacon to life, workers have made significant headway at the site. In January 2024, teams had already demolished existing structures and cleared the area. Project managers also worked with a design team to draw up what they say is an “iconic and exciting building.”
Lee Evans PartnershipThe future Dover Beacon, where current archaeological research is being conducted.
Archaeological digs at the site began in April, and initial projections expected the work to be completed by the end of June “depending on what is found on site.” A second phase of excavations then started in August, with expectations that it would be finished at the end of September.
Evidently, the work is running a bit behind schedule, but the district council remains optimistic about the site’s future. The Dover Beacon is set to house education studios, a start-up space, and a business center — a far cry from the simple pub that may have once stood on the very same ground.
After reading about the discovery of this historical pub in England, learn all about England’s famous Mermaid Inn, which is said to be haunted. Then, discover the most fascinating drinking rituals from around the world.
