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The Dig: A Story Unearthed

The Dig: A Story Unearthed is a new temporary exhibition sharing the stories of the real people that inspired the hit Netflix film, The Dig, and feature some of the original props and costumes from the film.

  • Booking not needed
  • Free event (admission applies)

The Dig: A Story Unearthed is a temporary exhibition sharing stories of the real people featured in the hit Netflix film.

The film, which starred Ralph Fiennes as archaeologist Basil Brown and Carey Mulligan as Edith Pretty, was based on the John Preston novel of the same name. It explores the excavation of the Great Ship Burial in 1939, which revealed the final resting place of an important Anglo-Saxon king, which went on to become one of the greatest archaeological discoveries of all time.

The new temporary exhibition features some of the original costumes, jewellery and props used in the film, as well as personal histories of the real-life people that inspired it.

The exhibition also includes contemporary interviews from people connected to the site or in similar roles today, as they reflect back on the 1939 discovery and the people involved.

Times

Prices

Event ticket prices

This event is free, but normal admission charges apply for the venue.

Check admission prices

The basics

Accessibility

Wheelchair accessible. Exhibition text available in large print format. Audio described guide available. The large print and audio described guides can be picked up near the entrance to the Treasury room.

Meeting point

After seeing the Visitor Welcome team for your admission, head to the High Hall exhibition building.

Suitability for children

Suitable for all ages.

Upcoming events

Sunset Anglo-Saxon myth and magic tour 

As the sun sets over the Anglo-Saxon Royal Burial Ground, soak up the atmosphere and discover more about the people who were laid to rest at Sutton Hoo and how they viewed the world around them.

Event summary

on
11 Sep 2026
at 18:00 to 19:30

Anglo-Saxon costume demonstration 

Meet our historic costume volunteers as they demonstrate the craft skills of the Anglo-Saxons and how they created clothing and accessories using natural materials.

Event summary

on
16 Sep to 31 Oct 2026
at 10:30 to 15:00+ 13 other dates or times

Autumn Equinox Forest Bathe at Sutton Hoo 

Connect with nature and history through a guided, meditative walk through woodland and into the Burial Ground at twilight on the Autumn Equinox.

Event summary

on
19 Sep 2026
at 17:00 to 19:00

Conservation in Action: Museum Pests 

What tiny creatures are hiding in Sutton Hoo’s collections? Join us as we check our pest traps, discover what we’ve caught and uncover how we protect our precious objects from museum pests!

Event summary

on
22 Sep 2026
at 10:30 to 13:00