Founded in 1154 by the Cluniac order, Monk Bretton Priory became an independent Benedictine house in 1281. Following the passing of the Act of Suppression the priory was dissolved on 30 November 1538. In 1580 the land was sold to George Talbot 6th Earl of Shrewsbury and Waterford who converted the priory into a private residence for his fourth son Henry.

The Monk Bretton Community Archaeology Project will be running a programme of survey and excavation in an around the scheduled area of the ancient monument. Work will be concentrating on identifying features above and below ground that relate to the 16th-century Talbot mansion.

We are able offer a limited number of excavator positions (with a minimum participation of one week). Participants will work alongside staff and students from the University of Sheffield, and take part in all aspects of the project. The project fee includes supervision, materials, hot and cold drinks on site, a packed lunch, and transport to and from site (pick-up from the Department of Archaeology, Sheffield).