Skip to content
Skip to content

Festival of Archaeology

Discover the archaeological secrets of Ightham Mote

  • Booking not needed
  • Free event (admission applies)

During the Festival of Archaeology, we're opening up the Archaeology Room and its display of finds from the Ightham Mote estate. There will also be items from the collection of Benjamin Harrison on display, including artefacts, letters and watercolours. Harrison was one of the most famous archaeologists in the country in Victorian and Edwardian times and he was based in Ightham village.

An archaeology-inspired spotter trail will be available for families to enjoy daily in the house.

On Wednesday 22 July there's a chance to meet the expert, as National Trust archaeologist Nathalie Cohen will be on hand to answer questions about archaeological finds made at Ightham Mote over the years.

Times

Prices

Event ticket prices

This event is free, but normal admission charges apply for the venue.

Check admission prices

The basics

Accessibility

The garden is steep in places with steps and gravel, cobbles and grass pathways - please speak to staff on arrival for the best route for your needs. Disabled parking is available near visitor reception but there is some gravel in areas of the car park. Pushchairs are permitted in all areas of the garden, but please take care. Take care, there are many open water areas around the garden.

Meeting point

Ask at the house welcome for directions to the Archaeology Room.

Upcoming events

Summer of Play at Ightham Mote 

Enjoy playful days out this summer at Ightham Mote.

Event summary

on
21 Jul to 31 Aug 2026
at 10:00 to 17:00+ 41 other dates or times

Summer of Play nature craft: twiggy adventures 

Be inspired by the natural world in a free craft session at Ightham Mote this summer.

Event summary

on
23 Jul 2026
at 11:00 to 12:00+ 2 other dates or times

Summer of Play: dressing up and costume collage creations 

Step back in time and discover how fashions, accessories and styles have changed through the centuries in this free, drop-in session.

Event summary

on
30 Jul 2026
at 11:00 to 15:00

Summer of Play nature craft: nature weaving 

Be inspired by the natural world in a free craft session at Ightham Mote this summer.

Event summary

on
6 Aug 2026
at 11:00 to 12:00+ 2 other dates or times