The Chew Valley Hoard Is Coming Home!
One of Britain’s greatest archaeological discoveries. One incredible community. One extraordinary show!
What Is The Chew Valley Hoard?
In January 2019, seven people were metal detecting in the Chew Valley when they made one of the most remarkable finds in British history. Just beneath the surface lay 2,584 silver pennies – buried around 1067 or 1068, right in the middle of the Norman Conquest of England.
The coins span a pivotal moment in our national story: there is one coin of Edward the Confessor, just under half feature Harold II – the last crowned Saxon king – and just over half carry the face of William the Conqueror. Someone buried them for safekeeping during one of the most turbulent periods in English history, and they lay hidden for almost a thousand years.
The Treasure Valuation Committee valued the hoard at £4.3 million – the highest value treasure acquisition on record. In October 2024, thanks to major funding from the National Lottery Heritage Fund and Art Fund, the hoard was acquired by South West Heritage Trust for the nation. It is coming home to Somerset.
For the full story of the hoard, its coins and its history, visit the South West Heritage Trust website.
How Valley Arts Is Bringing This Story Back To Life?
This is an extraordinary story – and it happened right here. This summer we’ll be creating a large-scale outdoor community production, celebrating the Hoard’s return to Somerset and the people of the Chew Valley whose ancestors lived through the events it represents.
The project is well underway. The script is in development, castings are confirmed for March, and there are so many ways to be part of it.
The Script Is Taking Shape
Our Community Writer Kesty Morrison has been working with Valley Arts’ Adult Performance Group to develop the script – uncovering local histories, gathering stories, and shaping something that feels genuinely rooted in this place.
In Kesty’s words: “Developing the script for the Hoard has been a wild ride! Finding a cohesive tone and structure is tricky. You have to cut some of your favourite bits in service to the specific story you are trying to tell.”
The result is a piece powered by the people of the Chew Valley – and there’s still time to be part of it.
April Half-Term Crafting Sessions
Thursday 16 April 2 -4.30pm
Chew Valley Library, Bishop Sutton
Saturday 18 April 2 -5pm
East Harptree Pavilion
Delivered in collaboration with East Harptree Arts Hub
Artist Giuliana Terran leads relaxed creative workshops inspired by Finders Keepers, where participants can craft objects to feature in the stage production, and/or explore creative responses to the stories connected to the hoard.
Sessions are drop-in, suitable for all ages.
May Half-Term Crafting Sessions
Thursday 28 May 2 -4.30pm
Chew Valley Library, Bishop Sutton
Friday 29 April 10am -1pm
East Harptree Pavilion
Delivered in collaboration with East Harptree Arts Hub
A second round of creative workshops takes place during May half-term.
Chew Chat May Takeover
Fridays in May 10 – 11.30am
Millennium Hall, Chew Magna
The popular Chew Chat sessions in Chew Magna host a special hoard-themed takeover for every Friday in May. Community writer Kesty Morrison will work with the Chew Chatters on 1, 15 and 22 May to develop a special hoard themed edition of the Chew Chat Times, inspired by the idea that every coin tells a story. On 8 May, Geraldine Hill-Mele, Chair of Valley Arts, will give a talk exploring the discovery and heritage of the Chew Valley Hoard.
Every Coin Tells a Story – Community Celebration Day
Saturday 20 June 10am – 4pm
The Old School Rooms, Chew Magna
Join us for a free day of creativity and discovery at the Old School Rooms complex. Taking place across Millennium Hall, the Upper and Lower Halls and the courtyard, the day will feature craft activities, dress-up, live performances, music, coin pressing, screen printing, heritage talks, and coins from the original hoard on display. The special hoard edition of the Chew Chat Times will also be available to pick up. With tea, cake and plenty of activities throughout the day, it promises to be a lively celebration for all ages.
Other Ways To Get Involved
We’re not only looking for performers. The Hoard needs musicians, backstage support, front of house help and more. Come along on the night for a chat, or get in touch at cvhoard@valley-arts.co.uk – we’d love to have you involved.
