Festival of British Archaeology
The Festival of British Archaeology is an exciting event that brings history to life. This annual celebration features a variety of in-person and virtual activities across the UK.
Position your heritage site, museum, educational program, or tourism experience as a must-visit destination during the two-week Festival of Archaeology to capture engaged history enthusiasts and families seeking immersive summer activities.
- Unearth the past: Promote exclusive dig experiences and hands-on excavation opportunities available only during the festival
- Heritage comes alive: Showcase guided tours, reenactments, and special exhibitions at your site during the fortnight celebration
- Learn ancient crafts: Highlight pottery, metalworking, and historical cooking workshops that blend education with experiential fun
- Virtual archaeology adventures: Promote online tours and expert-led sessions for remote participants unable to attend in person
The Festival of British Archaeology started in 1990 as National Archaeology Day. The Council for British Archaeology (CBA) organized the event to promote interest in archaeology across the UK.
The first celebration included only 10 events but quickly gained popularity due to its engaging activities.
By 2003, the festival expanded to a weekend-long event with 195 activities. It was renamed National Archaeology Week in 2005, extending to nine days. Finally, it became the Festival of Archaeology, running for a fortnight every July.
This change aimed to maximize participation during the summer, when archaeological fieldwork is most active.
The festival aligns with European Archaeology Days, enhancing its reach and impact. The CBA continues to coordinate the festival, encouraging local groups, universities, and heritage organizations to host events.
This collaboration brings archaeology to life for people of all ages, fostering a deeper understanding of history and heritage.
Dig Into History
Embark on a local archaeological dig! Many sites host public excavations during the festival. Grab a trowel and uncover hidden treasures from the past. Experience the thrill of finding ancient artifacts firsthand. It’s a hands-on adventure that turns history into a fun treasure hunt.
Visit a Heritage Site
Explore a nearby heritage site. Castles, ruins, and old houses often have special events for the festival. Wander through history and imagine life in centuries past. Guided tours, reenactments, and exhibitions bring these places to life in vivid detail.
Attend a Workshop
Join a workshop and learn new skills. Pottery, metalworking, or even ancient cooking techniques await. Local museums and universities offer sessions that dive into these crafts. It’s a chance to create something while learning about ancient techniques.
Participate in a Virtual Tour
Can’t make it in person? Participate in a virtual tour from the comfort of your home. Online events provide interactive experiences with experts. Explore famous sites and lesser-known gems through your screen. Perfect for history buffs unable to travel.
Join a Storytelling Session
Listen to captivating tales of the past at a storytelling session. These events feature historians and actors who bring ancient stories to life. Enjoy myths, legends, and true stories that shaped history. It’s like a live, immersive history lesson.