Wakefield Museums and Castles

Artist's impression of people gathering in ancient Ferrybridge

Ancient Ferrybridge

Ancient Ferrybridge held special significance. Around 5000 years ago, prehistoric people created a henge here. The henge was a large circular earth bank with ditches inside and out. There were two entrances opposite each other.

Spiritual and ritual activities took place there. The henge was the focus of feasts and ceremonies. People honoured their dead buried in cemeteries nearby.

Archaeologists have discovered many rare and fascinating finds in the area. Several of these are on display at Castleford Museum. 

Find out more

Close-up of a fragmented beaker burial with geometric patterns created by lots of little dots pressed into the clay

Prehistoric beaker burial

Discover how the distinctive decorations and shape of this special pot point to big shifts in prehistoric society.
Two bronze age daggers, one of highly corroded bronze and another of smooth grey flint

Bronze Age daggers

These tools are an example of prehistoric craftsmanship. But what is their true significance?
A stone wrist guard with holes in it, a smooth shape designed to line and protect the wrist

Bronze Age wrist guard

This special stone item came from a particularly rich grave. It is a surprising status symbol.
A display case containing the rims of large chariot wheels

Iron Age chariot burial

Find out more about this incredibly rare Iron Age chariot burial. Discover why it is so intriguing and important.

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