Countdown to leper hospital archaeology dig

Volunteer spaces for the upcoming community archaeology dig to uncover a leper hospital on South Common have been filled weeks ahead of schedule.

Organisers of the Local Landscapes & Hidden Histories project have been overwhelmed by the public’s enthusiasm and interest in uncovering the lost history of Lincoln’s medieval past, with dozens of people eager to take part in the excavation of the historic Malandry Leper Hospital site.

With less just over a week to go, excitement is building for this rare opportunity to explore the city’s hidden heritage.

Taking place over two weekends in July 2025 (11 to 13 July and 18 to 20 July), the dig will investigate what remains beneath the surface of one of Lincoln’s most intriguing historical sites, a leper hospital believed to have been built around the same time as Lincoln Cathedral.

Although hands-on volunteer roles are now full, members of the public are encouraged to go along to South Common during the dig weekends to watch the excavation unfold and learn more about the history being uncovered.

Led by professional archaeologists and supported by local institutions and organisations including Anglia Ruskin University, the University of Lincoln, Bishop Grosseteste University, Growing Futures Lincoln and Wings to the Past, the dig promises to be a unique and collaborative effort.

Cllr Rebecca Longbottom, Portfolio Holder for Remarkable Place at City of Lincoln Council, said: “This is a fantastic example of how our community can come together to celebrate and explore Lincoln’s heritage. The South Common dig connects us with the city’s deep-rooted history in a hands-on, meaningful way.”

Dr Sam Tipper Senior Lecturer at Anglia Ruskin University added: “We’re thrilled and truly grateful for the incredible response from local residents. All volunteer spots have now been filled, and the team is looking forward to sharing what we find with the wider community.”

Funded by The National Lottery Heritage Fund and the City of Lincoln Council, as well as local grants from the Lost Village Community Fund and the Council for British Archaeology (East Midlands), this place-based heritage project seeks to map the site’s structures and cemetery, uncover artefacts, and contribute to the South Common archive.

The discoveries may also inspire future digital interpretations, allowing even more people to engage with this lost chapter of Lincoln’s story.

To follow updates and discover more about the dig and the history of the Malandry Hospital, visit Local Landscapes & Hidden Histories on Facebook