The Lost Battle of Surrey
The episode is now live on BBC Sounds! We were delighted to contribute to Secret Surrey, exploring the mystery of the Battle of Aclea and why Leith Hill may have been the site of this historic conflict.
Recently, I had the fantastic opportunity to take part in a recording for the BBC Sounds series Secret Surrey, alongside Simon Furber and Fiona McCarthy. The episode explores the mystery of the Battle of Aclea, a little-known but significant event believed to have taken place somewhere in Surrey in AD 851.
The battle saw the West Saxons, led by King Æthelwulf, face off against a large Viking force during a period of increasing raids across southern England. It is recorded as one of the earliest major defeats inflicted on the Vikings, marking an important moment in the resistance against their advance. While the exact location of Aclea has never been definitively proven, there is growing evidence suggesting it may have taken place close to the old Roman road, Stane Street, where it runs through Ockley, and on the slopes of nearby Leith Hill, right here on our doorstep.
Being involved in the recording was a real highlight for me. It was a pleasure spending time with Simon and Fiona, both of whom were incredibly knowledgeable and passionate about uncovering Surrey’s hidden stories. To be able to share my own interest in the possible location of the battle, and to contribute from a detectorist’s perspective, was something I thoroughly enjoyed.
We were also very kindly hosted by Tanhurst Estate Vineyard, who generously allowed us to use their café as a recording location. It was a fantastic setting and very much appreciated.
Listen to ‘The Lost Battle of Surrey’ on BBC Sounds
The episode has now been released and is available to listen to on BBC Sounds.
🎧 Listen to “The Lost Battle of Surrey” on BBC Sounds
I hope you enjoy listening as much as I enjoyed taking part. It was a privilege to contribute to such an interesting discussion about one of Surrey’s greatest historical mysteries, and I hope the programme encourages more people to explore the area’s remarkable Saxon and Viking history.
It’s amazing to think that one of the most important Saxon victories over the Vikings may have taken place beneath the very fields we walk across today. Who knows—perhaps one day, through continued research and responsible metal detecting, we’ll uncover more clues that bring us closer to confirming its true location.
Hi I have just read all about your gang it’s my birthday today and I have been given a metal detector and can’t wait to get out there and start detecting. I was wondering if you could give me some tips etc, the model is DR.Otek mtxr I’m hoping it’s a good starting point
Thank you
Hi Dorian,
Thanks for leaving your comment and HAPPY BIRTHDAY, it was mine on Friday and I celebrated by going detecting and found this beauty: https://beardedbleepers.co.uk/metal-detecting-museum/heraldic-horse-mount/
The first two things you will need to do is:
1) Find a local club. They will show you the ropes and get you started. Most MD clubs have a facebook page where you can get intouch or just visit Google and search for local clubs.
2) Join the NCMD (National Council of Metal Detecting). The membership fee is very reasonable at £8 per year, you get £10 million in liability insurance which most MD’ing clubs require you to have. It is also a great resource of information.
With your new DR.Otek detector, it will definitely get you started 🙂 If you decide you like detecting and want to take it more seriously you can then upgrade. Did it come with a handheld pinpointer, you will need one of those to help you locate the find once you have dug your hole.
Hope this is helpful, happy hunting!
Murray