Grime's Graves - Prehistoric Flint Mine

Grime’s Graves is the only Neolithic flint mine open to visitors in Britain. This grassy lunar landscape of 400 pits was first named Grim’s Graves by the Anglo-Saxons. It was not until one of them was excavated in 1870 that they were identified as flint mines dug over 5,000 years ago. 

A small exhibition area illustrates the history of this fascinating site. Visitors can descend 9 metres (30 ft) by ladder into one excavated shaft to see the jet-black flint.

Set amid the distinctive Breckland heath landscape, Grime’s Graves is also a Site of Special Scientific Interest and a habitat for rare plants and fauna.

Please note that children under 5 years of age are not allowed into the mine shaft and visitors should be advised to wear sensible flat shoes.

Discover Grime’s Graves

A guide helps to interpret the spectacular landscape at Grime’s Graves, helping to show how it reflects the ancient industries which were practised here as long as 5,000 years ago. There were many theories put forward as to what the enigmatic earthworks were before their correct identification in the late 19th century. Tour includes admission to the public pit at Grime’s Graves, via a nine metre (30’) ladder.

Visitors are advised to wear ‘sensible’ shoes as the tour covers some areas of rough ground. There are no toilet facilities on the site. Under 5s are not permitted in the public pit.