The excavation of the Blackfriars area, led by archaeologist Peter Marsden, resulted in the significant discovery of a wooden shipwreck that dated back to the second century AD. Situated along the banks of the River Thames in London, this shipwreck was among the oldest maritime remains unearthed in the city and contributed to understanding the historical significance of the river as a critical trade route during the Roman occupation of Britain. The excavation was part of broader archaeological efforts to better understand the archaeological landscape of London, which had been shaped by centuries of human activity along the Thames. Marsden and his team meticulously excavated the site, revealing not only the ship but also artifacts that provided deeper insights into the daily lives and practices of people living at that time.

The excavation process was challenging, as it involved navigating a mix of urban development and preserved archaeological layers. The team used careful techniques to assess and preserve the shipwreck’s condition while extracting artifacts from the surrounding sediment. Items found alongside the ship included pottery and tools that represented trade goods and everyday usage items of the Roman populace, indicating the cultural and commercial exchanges that occurred in ancient London. Marsden's discovery sparked significant interest in further archaeological investigations throughout the city, reflecting on the vast historical narratives that could still be unearthed beneath modern developments.