Medieval secrets unearthed at Weymouth's former bowling alley site

A former bowling alley site in Weymouth, Dorset, has become the focus of a major archaeological dig. Researchers have already uncovered medieval walls, coins, and personal items dating back centuries. The excavation is shedding new light on the town’s past, including its experience of the Black Death in 1348. The dig, expected to last six weeks, has revealed the remains of three 13th-century houses and early cold storage units. Among the finds are tiles, pottery, and artefacts that offer clues about daily life in medieval Weymouth. Senior archaeologist Steve Wallis believes more significant discoveries will emerge as the work continues.

A team from the University of Southampton will join the project to collect soil samples for disease analysis. Historic records indicate the Black Death reached the area in 1348, killing half the town’s population. The findings could provide deeper insights into how the plague spread and affected communities. The site was opened to the public for free last Saturday, allowing residents to see the work firsthand. Dorset councillor Richard Biggs has highlighted the dig as an opportunity for locals to engage with their town’s history. Once the excavation ends, the area will temporarily serve as a car park. All recovered artefacts will be cleaned, studied, and eventually displayed at Dorset Museum.

The excavation will wrap up in six weeks, with the site later converted into a temporary car park. The artefacts, once analysed, will go on public display at Dorset Museum. Researchers hope the findings will deepen understanding of Weymouth’s medieval past and the impact of the Black Death.