Archaeology In The Pub At Greenwich

The Greenwich FROGs (Foreshore Recording and Observation Group) – a group of trained volunteers who study the archaeology along the Thames foreshore – are taking ‘public archaeology’ literally by putting on an free evening of talks at the Cutty Sark pub at Greenwich. These will showcase the work the FROGs have done this year to monitor and record the fast-eroding archaeological features from the Old Royal Naval College to the power station.

“Public archaeology – which basically means archaeology involving the general public – is what we do,” says Helen Johnston, group co-ordinator. “So we thought why not go to an actual pub so people can enjoy hearing about this very interesting stretch of the Thames foreshore and have a sociable drink?”

The archaeological remains to be found along this stretch of the Greenwich foreshore span from prehistoric flints to the Victorian era, and continue right through to its modern industrial heritage. The remains include important timber structures associated with the medieval and Tudor palaces that stood where is now the Old Royal Naval College.

“One of the priorities for our group is to work out what exactly these structures are,” says Helen. “They could be one or more jetties for one of the royal palaces, and some might be the remains of a ‘dolphin’ used for mooring ships.”

After the talks there will be a chance to chat to the FROGs, and even sample the Cutty Sark's new festive menu.

The Greenwich FROGs work on the foreshore is carried out with kind permission of English Heritage and under the auspices of the Thames Discovery Programme.