Archaeology at our places

hands with trowels digging in sand

We care for many rich and diverse archaeological sites, from prehistoric monuments such as Avebury in Wiltshire, to twentieth-century military installations like Orford Ness, Suffolk. Our archaeologists work to care for these places so that everyone can enjoy them.

Archaeology enables us to tell the stories of the places that we care for, revealing their longer histories of use and people. Through the earthworks of lost landscapes, buildings, buried remains and artefacts we’re able to make connections with past communities and understand more about the lives that they led.   

" To me, archaeology roots us in place and time and gives a sense of belonging – of depth of time. And that is why archaeology is important to the Trust. We can display the evidence and tell stories of the habitation of these islands dating back thousands of years. "
- Ian Barnes, Head of Archaeology
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A view over Housesteads Fort at Hadrians Wall

What is Archaeology? 

Archaeology is the study of human society and life in the past through physical remains.

Standing Stones at Avebury

What is a World Heritage Site? 

A World Heritage Site is a cultural or natural landmark that has been recognized by UNESCO due to its universal value to humanity, both in the present and for future generations.

Man digging in the ground

Archaeology 

Read the Trusted Source articles about archaeology...

Archaeological discoveries

Peter Moore examing the fragment

Rare glass fragment found at Chedworth Roman Villa 

The first of its kind, a rare fragment of glass was discovered on an archaeological dig in 2017, and is now on display for all to see.

Small 5cm copper alloy human figurine held in a glove hand

Archaeological dig uncovers ancient settlement at Wimpole 

During an archaeological dig at Lamp Hill Wimpole this Summer excavations revealed part of the ancient landscape here, a Late Iron Age to Early Roman (c.100BC – 150AD) rural settlement.

Fountains Abbey with a winter sky

Technology reveals archaeological discovery  

Groundbreaking technology reveals location of monks’ cemetery and new evidence of their burial rituals at Fountains Abbey in Yorkshire.

Read about our cause

While we're passionate about open spaces and historic places, we're working hard in other areas too. With your help, we're caring for the environment, food and farming, green energy and transport, and heritage.

What we care about