Why archaeology matters

The physical remains of the past hold our shared story. Understanding what came before us creates a sense of place and identity which can inform and enrich our lives today. This is recognised in the UK's planning process, which seeks to strengthen local economies, support communities, and protect and enhance our environment through consideration of archaeology and heritage in development. Through our investigations, we help to physically and digitally preserve the past and ensure it is accessible to everyone now and forever.

School visit on an archaeological excavation

Project feed

Every week our teams of archaeologists are uncovering interesting finds across the country. Whether it is an artefact or an ecofact, each piece of evidence helps us build a more detailed picture of the past. 

Join us in an exciting journey of discovery through our Project Feed.

Elizabeth Duru

Lizzie is digging in our East England region

 

Lots of lovely finds coming out of a small Roman kiln in this rural settlement in St Neots. You can see the pot fragments left from its last firing, along with kiln bars that the pots would have sat on top of inside the oven.

An archaeologist excavates half of a chamber of a Roman kiln, exposing pots and clay kiln furniture at the bottom..
An illustration drawing of a trowel
Exploring
Portrait of Neal Mason

Neal is digging in our East England region

 

We found this incredible cremation burial in a ditch. The large vessel contained the burnt remains of the deceased, and the vessels would likely have contained food offerings. 

An excavated Roman cremation burial with the bottom half of a large cremation vessel filled with soil, surrounded by two blackened bowls, a small black smooth bulbous jar and a light red conical shaped jar.
An illustration drawing of a trowel
Exploring