Free chance to see Two Lads archaeological dig this weekend

Taking place on Saturday and Sunday (August 8 and 9) from 10am to 4pm, the events will give visitors the opportunity to watch archaeologists at work.

Visitors can speak to members of the archaeology team and enjoy a range of family-friendly activities throughout the day.

There will also be stalls highlighting the area’s history, wildlife and conservation, with organisations including the Lancashire Wildlife Trust Peat Partnership, Horwich Heritage and Woodland Trust volunteers taking part.

Those wanting to take part in the excavation itself will have the chance to do so, with around 100 places available each day on a first come, first served basis.

Tickets will be handed out from the event ticket stall on the hour between 10am and 3pm.

Parking is recommended at Walker Fold, Lower House or Wilderswood car parks.

The walk to Two Lads takes between 30 and 90 minutes and includes a steep incline, although guided buses to the dig site will also be available for visitors who would prefer not to make the walk.

On Saturday only, three free guided bus tours will depart from Horwich Leisure Centre and Smithills Hall at 10am, noon and 1.15pm.

The 10am and 1.15pm departures include around an hour at the excavation site, while the noon departure is a bus-only tour for visitors who wish to remain on board.

Advance booking is required for all bus tours.

A number of explanations have been put forward for the reason that two stone cairns stand at this imposing place (Image: LDR)

The excavation is part of the Two Lads restoration project, which began on August 3 following changes to the original plans after public consultation.

Rather than restoring the monument to a single point in its history, the project will preserve features from several stages of the cairns’ evolution, reflecting the site’s long and varied past.

Events and communications officer for the Smithills Estate, Eddee Endley, said: “It’s clear that people feel a strong connection to Two Lads cairns.

“The restoration project has generated significant interest, and we look forward to delivering a diverse events programme to share the local importance of the cairns and the surrounding landscape of Winter Hill.

“Although the archaeological dig ends on August 14th, we intend to continue hosting guided walks and events to celebrate the cairn’s restoration.

“We also hope to deliver educational sessions with local schools throughout autumn 2026 and 2027 to further increase knowledge and connection to Two Lads and moorland ecology.”

For the chance to learn more about the history of the iconic landmark and discover the story behind its restoration, the Smithills Estate this weekend.

To find out more, visit the Woodland Trust North Eventbrite page (https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/two-lads-restoration-archaeological-dig-viewing-and-stalls-tickets-1993473252160)