Medieval Leather Workshop Unearthed in Grimsby
Archaeologists have uncovered evidence of a leather workshop dating back more than 500 years during redevelopment work in Grimsby, offering fresh insight into the town’s past.
Finds Reveal Everyday Medieval Life
The discoveries were made by York Archaeology at Freshney Place, where excavations revealed fragments of leather, pottery, and fish bones. According to North East Lincolnshire Council, these items provide a vivid snapshot of daily life in historic Grimsby and will eventually be displayed to the public.
Councillor Hayden Dawkins, cabinet member for tourism and heritage, described the find as remarkable. “It’s incredible to think that an entire world lies beneath our feet,” he said, highlighting the excitement surrounding the discovery.
A Busy Hub at the Heart of the Town
Grimsby grew into an important fishing and trading port in the 12th century, and experts believe the excavation area represents the likely ground level of the town between around 450 and 1600. Archaeologists suggest the leather workshop once stood amid a lively marketplace in the center of medieval Grimsby.
Council heritage officer Louise Jennings said the find is deepening understanding of the town’s history. She noted that the presence of oyster shells and fish bones reflects the town’s coastal location and reliance on seafood. “You can easily picture people working in the workshop and eating fish for lunch,” she said.
Preserved Materials Thanks to Wet Conditions
Phil Moore, principal archaeology consultant at BWB Consulting, which coordinated the project, explained that the damp conditions of the site increased the chances of preserving organic materials such as leather and wood—items that rarely survive over centuries.
The excavation began in October 2025 and was carried out as part of flood prevention works, turning a modern infrastructure project into an unexpected window onto Grimsby’s medieval past.
