Ep 1. Archaeology of Althorpe

In the first episode of the 20th season of Secrets of the Dead, titled "Archaeology of Althorpe," viewers are taken on a journey through history to uncover the secrets of one of the UK's most famous stately homes. Althorpe House, located in Northamptonshire, has been the ancestral home of the Spencer family for over 500 years and is perhaps best known as the childhood home of Princess Diana.

Using the latest archaeological technology and techniques, a team of experts is brought in to explore the many layers of history that make up this great estate. Starting with the medieval origins of Althorpe, archaeologists discover the remains of a 12th-century chapel and a mysterious underground passage. These findings help shed light on the religious and cultural significance of the area.

Moving forward in time, the team uncovers evidence of Tudor and Stuart architecture, including the remains of a grand Elizabethan gatehouse and a magnificent Jacobean staircase. As they dig deeper, they find clues to the lives of the people who called Althorpe home, including a possible plague burial site and a pit full of ceramic waste that reveals the daily life of the estate's inhabitants.

As the investigation progresses, the team encounters a major obstacle: the vast 18th-century landscaping that transformed Althorpe into a grand parkland. Searching for evidence of the now-lost features of this landscape, the archaeologists use cutting-edge technology, including aerial drones and ground-penetrating radar, to map the contours of the land and uncover long-lost garden buildings, avenues, and water features.

Finally, the team dives into Althorpe's more recent history, exploring the legacy of the Spencer family and their connections to some of the most significant events of the 20th century. From Diana's childhood memories to the role of the Spencer family in the Great War, Secrets of the Dead reveals the hidden history behind one of the UK's most iconic stately homes.

Throughout the episode, interviews with experts and historians provide context and commentary, while stunning visuals of the estate and its surroundings bring to life the stories of the people who lived and worked there.

Overall, "Archaeology of Althorpe" is a fascinating exploration of the layers of history that make up one of the UK's most important and iconic estates. From the religious foundations of the medieval period to the grandeur of the Georgian and Victorian eras, this episode takes viewers on a journey through time that reveals the secrets and surprises of Althorpe House.