Latest news with #TheDig
Daily Record
6 days ago
- Entertainment
- Daily Record
Netflix fans say 'exquisite' and 'impeccable' period drama is 'enchanting'
The Dig tells the story of the 1939 excavation of Sutton Hoo in Suffolk - and fans are already in awe of the 'beautiful and moving' film Period drama enthusiasts are in for a treat as the 'impeccable' film The Dig is currently available to stream on Netflix. The 2021 cinematic depiction of John Preston's acclaimed novel brings to life the tales of the 1939 excavation at Sutton Hoo in Suffolk. Inhabitants were required to clear out as archaeologists uncovered an undisturbed ship brimming with enigmatic Anglo-Saxon artefacts. The motion picture showcases a stellar cast, featuring Carey Mulligan and Ralph Fiennes portraying Edith Pretty and Basil Brown, respectively. The narrative follows landowner Edith's resolve to explore the burial mounds on her estate with the assistance of self-taught archaeologist Brown, who she employs in the hope of unearthing their secrets. Boasting a lofty score on Rotten Tomatoes, the film has garnered recognition for its 'excellent' performances from viewers. A critic says: "This isn't my type of film usually, but I found it to be enchanting and captivating. Carey Mulligan and Ralph Fiennes are excellent, as is the young lad. A window on a dangerous time but also captures the charm of England back then , when everyone had manners and everything was done with TLC." Another viewer added: "I just watched The Dig, and I have to say, it's such a beautiful and moving film. I knew a little bit about the Sutton Hoo discovery, but this film really brings the whole story to life in such a heartfelt way. It's not just about the archaeology; it's about the people behind it and everything they went through.", reports Surrey Live. In the nascent stage of their working relationship, Edith presents an offer matching what Brown had been getting from the Ipswich Museum, yet upon his declaration of its insufficiency, they settle on a more substantial sum for his expertise. Initially, Brown would cycle long distances daily until Edith extends the hospitality of on-site accommodation, shared with her driver and chef, plus two assistants to aid in his endeavours. Despite attempts by his previous colleagues to draw him back into their explorations, Brown remains steadfast in his solitary excavation. His persistence soon pays off when he stumbles upon enigmatic iron rivets from a ship, hinting that the site might be the final resting place of a figure of supreme stature—perhaps an ancient king prompting an unforeseen voyage of discovery. A fan wrote: "Beautifully shot and carefully written. It's a well-crafted story about discovery, death, love and hope, set in a turbulent time where Great Britain is about to go to war with Germany. Though this historical film suffers from pacing issues, particularly in the first half of the movie, it delivers an emotionally compelling and resonating story that we rarely see these days." For those keen to delve into the true tale of the Sutton Hoo excavation and immerse themselves in a period drama, The Dig is currently available for streaming on Netflix.
The Sun
24-05-2025
- Entertainment
- The Sun
I visited the UK's happiest place to live with the country's best pizza and cosy pubs
YOU have probably heard of Sutton Hoo, the Suffolk site where a huge Anglo-Saxon ship was discovered under ancient grassy mounds. Excitement around the medieval treasure trove grew in 2021 when Carey Mulligan starred in a Netflix movie about the discovery, The Dig. 3 3 But it's not just ancient artefacts, old textiles and traditional silverware that make this area so special. The site sits close to Woodbridge, an off-grid market town on the banks of the River Deben that was recently crowned the UK's happiest place to live by Rightmove. Having spent a weekend soaking up its moreish cocktail of history, gorgeous views and cracking food — including one of the best pizzas I've ever had — I'm inclined to agree. It was a short trip for me and my partner across the Essex / Suffolk border, where we checked into one of Woodbridge's best-known hotels, The Crown. The charming inn features ten comfortable boutique rooms, with enormous beds and grand panelled bathtubs. The property's position, smack bang on the thoroughfare of the town, is perfect for soaking up the best Woodbridge has to offer, within walking distance of a high street scattered with independent shops. Swing by The W Gallery if you get a chance. We were captivated by a huge canvas of an avenue of neon orange trees by artist Samuel Thomas. A few doors down, at Bois Jolie, the owner explained how he went from market researcher to owning his own woodcraft business. Now, rather than staring at spreadsheets and pie charts, he spends his time creating interesting coffee tables and beautifully grained yew lamp stands, topped by his wife's colourful handmade shades. north wales staycation If we weren't convinced before, we certainly were after that: Woodbridge really is a town of happy people — and they love to chat. We had made sure we were well fuelled for our first day of adventure with a huge brekkie of juicy local sausages and perfectly poached eggs at the hotel. Make sure you book in here for dinner one night, too. The Crown's restaurant and bar are buzzing with locals on a Saturday night. If you ever tire of the hotel's jam-packed burgers, fish and chips and flavoursome salads, you won't need to venture far for a decent meal in Woodbridge. I recommend The Woodyard Ltd, where the air was thick with the lip-smacking scent of smoke and garlic. Its wood-fired pizzas are something special and we were grateful for our cold beers after devouring a Vesuvio — all charred dough, spicy nduja sausage and fiery salami. The queue for tables stretched out of the door and, after eating, it was easy to see why. The Anchor proved the perfect spot for a relaxed Sunday roast. My plate came piled high with pork, doused in a stock-rich gravy that was so good I would have happily drunk it from a mug. Once we were finished feasting, we walked it off along Woodbridge's River Deben and the marina, where hundreds of colourful boats are moored. 3 Take a peek at the tide mill on your wander. The Grade I listed mill is one of the few remaining in the country and has a history stretching back 800 years. We then made our way towards Kyson Hill, where the sun-drenched river is framed by salt marshes and ancient woodland. This National Trust area is full of wildlife and we spotted a heron motionless at the water's edge while, in the distance, deer darted between the trees. While we didn't get the chance to visit the mounds of Sutton Hoo itself on the other side of the river, its connection to the town is deepening. It's thought the ship and its treasure were hauled three miles up to the burial site from Woodbridge in the 7th Century, and now a community-led project is rebuilding the ancient craft in all its 90ft glory. The locals are brilliantly enthusiastic about the mission, and you can take a look at the impressive work in progress in The Longshed. After a weekend of eating, walking and soaking up the charm of this riverside town and all its history, I reckon Woodbridge is quite possibly the happiest place to live in the UK. And it's just as great to visit. It may even feature frequently on my property searches . . .
Scottish Sun
24-05-2025
- Entertainment
- Scottish Sun
I visited the UK's happiest place to live with the country's best pizza and cosy pubs
Make your way to stunning Kyson Hill, where the sun-drenched river is framed by salt marshes and ancient woodland HOO KNEW? I visited the UK's happiest place to live with the country's best pizza and cosy pubs Click to share on X/Twitter (Opens in new window) Click to share on Facebook (Opens in new window) YOU have probably heard of Sutton Hoo, the Suffolk site where a huge Anglo-Saxon ship was discovered under ancient grassy mounds. Excitement around the medieval treasure trove grew in 2021 when Carey Mulligan starred in a Netflix movie about the discovery, The Dig. Sign up for Scottish Sun newsletter Sign up 3 Enjoy Woodbridge harbour with its sail boats Credit: Alamy 3 Double rooms at The Crown at Woodbridge are from £115per night Credit: Supplied But it's not just ancient artefacts, old textiles and traditional silverware that make this area so special. The site sits close to Woodbridge, an off-grid market town on the banks of the River Deben that was recently crowned the UK's happiest place to live by Rightmove. Having spent a weekend soaking up its moreish cocktail of history, gorgeous views and cracking food — including one of the best pizzas I've ever had — I'm inclined to agree. It was a short trip for me and my partner across the Essex/Suffolk border, where we checked into one of Woodbridge's best-known hotels, The Crown. The charming inn features ten comfortable boutique rooms, with enormous beds and grand panelled bathtubs. The property's position, smack bang on the thoroughfare of the town, is perfect for soaking up the best Woodbridge has to offer, within walking distance of a high street scattered with independent shops. Swing by The W Gallery if you get a chance. We were captivated by a huge canvas of an avenue of neon orange trees by artist Samuel Thomas. A few doors down, at Bois Jolie, the owner explained how he went from market researcher to owning his own woodcraft business. Now, rather than staring at spreadsheets and pie charts, he spends his time creating interesting coffee tables and beautifully grained yew lamp stands, topped by his wife's colourful handmade shades. north wales staycation If we weren't convinced before, we certainly were after that: Woodbridge really is a town of happy people — and they love to chat. We had made sure we were well fuelled for our first day of adventure with a huge brekkie of juicy local sausages and perfectly poached eggs at the hotel. Make sure you book in here for dinner one night, too. The Crown's restaurant and bar are buzzing with locals on a Saturday night. If you ever tire of the hotel's jam-packed burgers, fish and chips and flavoursome salads, you won't need to venture far for a decent meal in Woodbridge. I recommend The Woodyard Ltd, where the air was thick with the lip-smacking scent of smoke and garlic. Its wood-fired pizzas are something special and we were grateful for our cold beers after devouring a Vesuvio — all charred dough, spicy nduja sausage and fiery salami. The queue for tables stretched out of the door and, after eating, it was easy to see why. The Anchor proved the perfect spot for a relaxed Sunday roast. My plate came piled high with pork, doused in a stock-rich gravy that was so good I would have happily drunk it from a mug. Once we were finished feasting, we walked it off along Woodbridge's River Deben and the marina, where hundreds of colourful boats are moored. 3 The Crown serves cracking food Credit: Supplied Take a peek at the tide mill on your wander. The Grade I listed mill is one of the few remaining in the country and has a history stretching back 800 years. We then made our way towards Kyson Hill, where the sun-drenched river is framed by salt marshes and ancient woodland. This National Trust area is full of wildlife and we spotted a heron motionless at the water's edge while, in the distance, deer darted between the trees. While we didn't get the chance to visit the mounds of Sutton Hoo itself on the other side of the river, its connection to the town is deepening. It's thought the ship and its treasure were hauled three miles up to the burial site from Woodbridge in the 7th Century, and now a community-led project is rebuilding the ancient craft in all its 90ft glory. The locals are brilliantly enthusiastic about the mission, and you can take a look at the impressive work in progress in The Longshed. After a weekend of eating, walking and soaking up the charm of this riverside town and all its history, I reckon Woodbridge is quite possibly the happiest place to live in the UK. And it's just as great to visit. It may even feature frequently on my property searches . . .
BBC News
08-05-2025
- Entertainment
- BBC News
Sutton Hoo exhibit explores team behind Anglo-Saxon ship dig
A new exhibition is exploring the people behind the excavation of an Anglo-Saxon burial ground which was portrayed in a Netflix Dig, starring Carey Mulligan and Ralph Fiennes, tells the story of the discoveries made at Sutton Hoo near Woodbridge, Suffolk, in excavation uncovered a burial ship and a central chamber filled with treasures, including a warrior's helmet, a gold belt buckle, sword and shield, believed to have belonged to East Anglia's 7th Century ruler King Ræ Howarth, Sutton Hoo's archaeology and engagement manager, said she hoped the exhibit at the site would bring in new audiences while allowing those familiar with the story to learn more. Ms Howarth said the 2021 Netflix film had created what the Sutton Hoo team called "The Dig effect"."Lots of people were encouraged to come and visit the site curious to discover more about the real Sutton Hoo story and global attention was focusing on this corner of Suffolk," she explained."A couple of years on this seemed like the perfect opportunity to revisit the film."It's 86 years since the original discovery was made in 1939 and we're using the exhibition as a lens, and the costumes and props that were used in the film, to really shine a spotlight on some of the real people involved in the excavation." The exhibition, which is called The Dig: A Story Unearthed, includes a number of props used in the film which were based on items used in the original worn by Fiennes, who was born in Suffolk, while he played archaeologist Basil Brown are on display, such as a tweed waistcoat and jacket, glasses and a pocket also worn by Mulligan, who played Edith Pretty the former landowner who commissioned the dig, have also been included. "The exhibition is focusing on the real people behind the film that inspired it and their lives both before and after 1939, to create a rounded picture of them and their contributions to our Sutton Hoo story," Ms Howarth added. Follow Suffolk news on BBC Sounds, Facebook, Instagram and X.
Yahoo
29-01-2025
- Science
- Yahoo
Aim to sail Sutton Hoo ship replica across Channel
The team building the replica of a famous Anglo-Saxon burial ship have told of their aspirations to eventually sail it down the River Thames and across the English Channel. The Sutton Hoo Ship's Company (SHSC) is reconstructing the famous ship unearthed at Sutton Hoo, Suffolk, in 1939. It had been working at The Longshed in Woodbridge, but recently announced it would move to a new home nearby with an aim to finish construction next year. Prior to any voyages, Sean McMillan, trustee and chair of the board of SHSC, said the team would first have to learn how to handle tough currents. "It will take us, I imagine, the first two years, two seasons, on the [River] Deben because nobody knows how to row a ship like this so we've got to work that one out," he explained. "It probably means we're going to run into the mud everywhere we can. "But then after that we'll probably go around to the [River] Orwell, to Aldeburgh, and learn how to control a ship like this in fairly strong currents. "What a sight that will be. "After that then up the Thames maybe as far as Tower Bridge. I wouldn't go any further than that because I don't fancy taking this through London bridges completely out of control." Mr McMillan also suggested travelling to Faversham in Kent which has royal Anglo-Saxon links. "After that then we'll start looking at all sorts of other possibilities - across the Channel, to Holland, maybe down into the rivers in Germany," he continued. "Maybe we'll get across to Denmark and have a drag race with the Viking ships." The ship is between 50 and 60% complete and reaches a length of 90 feet (27.43m). The team is making use of 7th Century building techniques for the £1.5m reconstruction. "There are no machines, no power tools, the whole process is exactly as it would have been in the 7th Century," Mr McMillan added. "The trees are split - it's called cleaving - where they are deliberately split along the grain, so you end up with a sort of pie chart of triangular sections. "Those are then planed down using hand axes to achieve the one inch thick planks from which the ship is built." The original ship excavated at Sutton Hoo is believed to be the burial ship and grave of King Rædwald - the 7th Century Anglo-Saxon ruler of East Anglia. The story of the excavation was told in the Netflix film The Dig starring Carey Mulligan and Ralph Fiennes in 2021. Follow Suffolk news on BBC Sounds, Facebook, Instagram and X. Sutton Hoo boat replica finds 'magnificent' home Sutton Hoo replica boat build needs more oak trees First finished pieces of Sutton Hoo ship joined The ancient treasures that inspired a Netflix film The Sutton Hoo Ship's Company
