Prehistoric woodland and ancient insects unearthed in Somerset's peatlands
A buried prehistoric woodland, along with ancient plant and insect remains, has been uncovered on the National Trust’s Holnicote Estate in Somerset. The discovery was made during a peatland restoration project, revealing a landscape dating back thousands of years. The remains were found preserved in the peat, which acts as a natural preserver when kept in good condition. Among the findings were fragments of alder and willow trees, estimated to be between 4,500 and 3,500 years old—spanning the Neolithic and Bronze Ages. Over 100 pieces of Hydraena riparia, a semi-aquatic beetle, were also recovered from the peat samples.
Other plant remains pointed to a landscape once filled with sedges, rushes, birch, and oak. The discovery came as part of a year-long restoration effort led in partnership with the South West Peatland Partnership (SWPP). Work included building leaky log dams to improve water quality and cut carbon emissions. Funding for the project came from Natural England’s Nature for Climate Peatland Grant Scheme (NCPGS), along with contributions from other organisations. The findings will now help shape future management of the landscape and serve as a reference point for peatland restoration research.
The prehistoric woodland and insect remains provide a rare glimpse into Somerset’s ancient environment. The data collected will guide ongoing conservation efforts and support studies on peatland recovery. The National Trust and its partners plan to use these insights to inform long-term land management decisions.
