Delve into the world of the Anglo-Saxons and discover more about the incredible objects unearthed at Sutton Hoo and what they can tell us about this fascinating period in English history.
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A time of change
It’s the year of the Great Ship Burial, and a time of great change for the Anglo-Saxons.
The people have just lost their king and their religious beliefs and practices gradually shift from Paganism to make way for Christianity.
As you move through the Hall, you’ll meet seven of Sutton Hoo’s Anglo-Saxon residents, who will each shed light on what life was like during this significant year.
Fit for a king
Enter the central room in the High Hall to meet our King. Admire the scale of a life-sized map of the burial chamber he was laid to rest in. As you look at the extraordinary treasures he was buried with, you’ll begin to get a sense of just how important this man was.
Explore the objects set in cases around the King for a glimpse of the true sophistication of the Anglo-Saxon people. Each extraordinary piece demonstrates an unrivalled craftsmanship, and features precious metals and gemstones sourced from all over the world.
You’ll spot intricately carved gold and garnet shoulder clasps, a handsome red shield and, of course, the iconic Sutton Hoo helmet.
A warrior at peace
Not far from the King, you’ll find a case that tells the story of a warrior’s burial. Laid out just as it was found during an excavation at Sutton Hoo in the 1990s, it contains original artefacts found during that dig, including a very fine horse’s harness as well as a shield, weaponry and a jewelled belt fitting. You’ll notice our warrior is located right next to his horse, which was, in the 1990s, found buried in a grave of its own just metres away from the warrior, presumably so that he had a steed on which to enter the afterlife.
