Archaeology at our places

In our latest blog Trust archaeologist, Nathalie Cohen, shares some of the discoveries from excavations in the gardens and fields around Smallhythe Place, conducted over 12 days in August 2021.

There are 20 archaeologists working for the National Trust across England, Wales and Northern Ireland caring for our monuments, houses, collections, gardens and landscapes. Learn more about their discoveries first-hand.

Recent archaeological discoveries at Fountains Abbey in Yorkshire have revealed that at its height, this World Heritage Site was not just the place of prayer and contemplation previously imagined. Cutting-edge survey techniques have uncovered a hidden industrial complex filling the valley, evidence of a tannery operation of such surprisingly large proportions that it has reshaped thinking of this monastic community.

Archaeologists discovered this 1st-century metal figure while digging near Wimpole Hall, Cambridgeshire. Recent cleaning and conservation have revealed remarkable details of a moustache and what may have been a popular East Anglian hairstyle.

Curator Anna Forrest describes what it was like to work at Oxburgh Hall, Norfolk, throughout the unprecedented events of spring and summer 2020, from the setbacks of lockdown to the extraordinary discoveries made under the floorboards.

The Dig is a new film by Netflix, based on the novel of the same title by John Preston. But do you know the true story of the excavation of the Great Ship Burial at Sutton Hoo? Read on to discover more.

One of the greatest archaeological discoveries of all time, took place at Sutton Hoo in Suffolk. With the release of The Dig, starring Ralph Fiennes and Carey Mulligan, we asked our team of archaeologists to dig the dirt on some of their favourite archaeological stories and ongoing detective work.

Our woods are full of hidden history and forgotten stories. Here are ten clues to help you detect what once went on under the dappled canopy on your next walk.

We've got lots of fun activities to try on your next family adventure. Discover wildlife at the places in our care using our handy spotter guides or have a go at activities inspired by the colours and sounds of nature.

Our archaeology team across the UK work closely with buildings and estate teams to identify and preserve the hidden secrets of the landscapes and buildings in our care. Find out what they're up to at places across the Midlands.

Caring for many ancient sites, our places are home to many amazing archaeological finds. From sieges to Saint Patrick, our castles and forts have seen it all. Unearth the myth, legend and history behind some of the oldest places and items in our care.

Non-intrusive archaeological surveys in New Winchelsea have revealed the East Sussex coastal countryside’s seven-hundred-year-old royal connections.

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

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.

Sometimes hot, dry weather can reveal unexpected surprises in the landscape. From lost gardens to entire mansions it's amazing to see them appearing right before our eyes.