Flag Fen’s Iron Age roundhouse reconstruction near Peterborough moves forward, with completion now targeted for January. The replica, erected in 2022 at Flag Fen Archaeology Park, was damaged by a blaze suspected to be arson on 13 July. In response, the site launched a public appeal that raised £18,000, and manager Jacqui Mooney praised the community and local businesses for contributing to the faster-than-expected rebuild. She noted that the destruction was heartbreaking, yet the community support has been tremendous, emphasizing that these roundhouses represent more than mere structures; they bring prehistoric life to visitors in a tangible way.
The dwelling, featuring a thatched roof, typified Bronze Age and Iron Age homes. Restoration efforts have benefited from the backing of the National Trust Wimpole Estate, Matt Cook of the Manor Wood outdoor education centre in Huntingdon, and a partnering construction company. Builders have completed the roundhouse walls, and roughly one-third of the roof has been thatched so far.
Preparations for a second, larger Iron Age roundhouse are already underway, with all timber on site and the outer ring of posts in place. Flag Fen originated from excavations in 1971 that uncovered a near-pristine Bronze Age landscape. Today, the park remains open to visitors and is operated by the private company Peterborough Limited.
