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View from Mam Tor, Derbyshire
View from Mam Tor, Derbyshire | © National Trust Images/James Beck

Archaeology

Find out more about the diverse archaeological sites we look after, from the Royal Anglo-Saxon burial ground at Sutton Hoo in Suffolk to Levant Mine and Beam Engine, part of the Cornish Mining World Heritage Site.

Learn more about archaeology

Unearthing Britain's history: archaeology through the eras 

Discover the different eras of British history through the archaeological artefacts and sites in our care. From stone circles in the Prehistoric Era to military remains of the 20th century, learn more about our ancestors and Britain's past.

Aerial view of earthworks in the landscape at Whitesheet Hill, Wiltshire

Five of the best archaeological finds at our places 

Artefacts found at the places we care for can help us understand what life was like in the past. Find out about five of our most intriguing finds and what they reveal.

A Roman pipeclay head of the god Mercury, found at Smallhythe Place, Kent

The best archaeological sites to visit 

From hillforts to stone circles, gold mines and medieval castles, there's plenty to explore at the historic places in our care. Discover reminders of the past that tell the stories of our ancestors.

A warm sunset over the burial mounds at Sutton Hoo, Suffolk 1200332.jpg

Mysteries of historical graffiti 

Historical graffiti offers a valuable window into the past. Learn about the meanings behind the graffiti at the places in our care, which include symbols carved into castle walls and etchings of Isaac Newton.

Graffiti carved into the stonework at Bodiam Castle, East Sussex

Archaeologists at work

What do our archaeologists do? 

Our archaeologists uncover hidden stories and care for thousands of sites and objects. Learn how their work helps protect the past for future generations.

Archaeologists working at the Parterre at Wimpole Estate, Cambridgeshire

Techniques our archaeologists use 

Discover the non-intrusive techniques our archaeologists use to uncover hidden histories at the places we care for, including scientific dating, excavations and LiDAR (Light Detection and Ranging).

Archaeologist carrying out geophysical survey on a quadbike through a field
The house reflected on the lake at Croome, Worcestershire

For everyone, for ever

We protect and care for places so people and nature can thrive. Find out who we are and what we stand for.