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Festival of Archaeology - Pottery making and artefact show and tell

Join us for a weekend of ancient craft-making and artefact show and tell with a real-life archaeologist.

  • Booking not needed
  • Admission applies

Be part of the UK’s biggest annual celebration of archaeology, with this year’s theme all about nature.

Set within the beautiful Chilterns Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, the wind-shaped landscape of Dunstable Downs is steeped in ancient history just waiting to be uncovered.

This July, families are invited to get hands-on with history. Join Dr Wendy Morrison, archaeologist from the Chilterns Heritage & Archaeology Partnership, for creative pottery workshops designed for young explorers. Children can craft and decorate their own ancient-style ‘pinch pot’ using air-drying clay and natural materials such as feathers and flowers, then take their creation home as a special keepsake.

Wendy will also be bringing along some fascinating artefacts to spark imaginations, including a mysterious Bronze Age Carnyx - an instrument not heard on the Downs for over 2,000 years.

Come along, get creative, and step back in time together.

Times

Prices

Event ticket prices

Ticket typeTicket category
All £2.00
Check admission prices

The basics

Booking number

Call 01582 500920

Accessibility

The event will be held on the grass field near to our courtyard. Please do get in touch to discuss any accessibility requirements.

Meeting point

Meet at our visitor hub in the courtyard just next to our main visitor centre.

Suitability for children

This event is suitable for children of any age if accompanied by an adult.

What to bring and wear

The event will be held outside so please wear suitable, weather appropriate clothing.

Upcoming events

Summer of Play: 'Everyone’s Green Space Sports Village' at Dunstable Downs 

Dunstable Downs is a place for everyone to enjoy nature in their own way. So, what better excuse to get the kids outside, burning off energy, learning new skills, or simply, having fun than coming along to Summer of Play?

Event summary

on
20 Jul to 31 Aug 2026
at 10:30 to 16:30+ 48 other dates or times

Have-a-go-session: Soft archery 

Challenge the family to a game, win points, and have fun.

Event summary

on
22 Jul to 26 Aug 2026
at 10:30 to 15:30+ 5 other dates or times

Have-a-go-session: Let's Get Going 

Get ready for a morning of movement, curiosity, games, creativity and play!

Event summary

on
23 Jul to 27 Aug 2026
at 10:00 to 12:00+ 5 other dates or times

Have-a-go-taster-session: Archery 

Take aim and shoot for the bullseye, with an exciting archery taster session for all ages.

Event summary

on
26 Jul 2026
at 12:00 to 16:00