About Michelle Bullivant
I am a Cambridge-based landscape archaeologist, local historian, researcher, writer and public speaker, with more than 30 years' experience researching the history and archaeology of Cambridge, Cambridgeshire and the surrounding landscape.
My particular interest is in understanding how places have developed and changed over time. I combine documentary and archival research with historic maps, aerial photography, archaeological evidence and observation of the landscape itself to uncover the stories of settlements, buildings, communities and the people who lived within them.
Alongside my independent research, I work on a freelance and consultancy basis, undertaking historical and archaeological research for individuals, local authorities, developers, community organisations, heritage projects and creative and media productions.
My work has taken many forms over the years, from archaeological fieldwork and landscape research to historical reports, interpretation projects, writing, talks, storytelling, heritage events, media and film work. I have also devised and delivered guided historical walks and site-based interpretation as part of particular projects and events.
Much of my independent research is shared freely through this website, which has grown into an archive of my work on Cherry Hinton, Cambridge, Cambridgeshire and places further afield.
Please visit the links to places above, where you'll find all kinds of interesting old pictures and information for your pleasure and research, ranging from family history, local history and new history projects.
My Work
My work has always crossed the boundaries between archaeology, history, research and public engagement.
I enjoy taking fragments of evidence; an old map, an earthwork, an aerial photograph, a forgotten document, a place-name or somebody's memories, and exploring how they fit together to tell the story of a place.
Sometimes that results in a detailed research report or management plan. Sometimes it becomes an article, interpretation board, talk, public event, piece of storytelling or material for a media project. At other times it raises new questions and develops into a research project lasting many years.
Current and continuing research interests include Wandlebury, Newnham and Grantchester, Flag Fen, Wickhambrook and the historic and archaeological landscapes around Cambridge.
Experience and professional background
More than 30 years of historical and archaeological research and field experience.
Landscape archaeologist, local historian, researcher and historical consultant.
Former Director of Active8 Archaeology.
Former Chair and Vice Chair, and Honorary Member, of Cherry Hinton Local History Society.
Experience in archaeological excavation, post-excavation, surveying, archaeological illustration, environmental sampling, finds processing and aerial-photographic interpretation.
Writer, public speaker, storyteller and contributor to heritage, film and media projects.
Alumni and Member of the University of Cambridge.
Official Historian for Cherry Hinton Hall.
Recipient of the Cambridgeshire Association for Local History award for services to local history.
Historical & Archaeological Consultancy
I undertake commissioned historical and archaeological research for private individuals, community organisations, businesses, developers, local authorities and heritage and creative projects.
Work can include landscape and site histories, house and building histories, archival research, historical background studies, development and street naming, heritage interpretation, management-plan research, genealogy and bespoke research projects.
Please see my Historical & Archaeological Services below and Contact me for further information.
Have a question about my historical research, consultancy, talks or guided walks? Visit the FAQ page by clicking on the button below:
Selected work
My work has included research and interpretation for Cambridge City Council and other local authorities; historical research for development and place-naming projects; management plans for parks and historic landscapes; heritage interpretation; community archaeology and history projects; public speaking and storytelling; historical events; and contributions to television, radio, film and other media.
Explore selected projects → (coming soon)
Michelle's Journal
History and landscape archaeology are at the heart of much of my work, but they are not the whole of my story.
Michelle's Journal is where I occasionally write more personally about life and work, disability and adaptation, projects and places, and some of the experiences that sit behind the work I do.
Visit Michelle's Journal by clicking the button below:
Have questions about historical research, consultancy, guided walks, talks or heritage projects? Visit the FAQ page for more information.
Click below to read reviews of my work: