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.

Profile photo of Ruth Shaffrey

Ruth is in our finds lab

 

Much hilarity this morning whilst analysing this Roman millstone found in Cambridgeshire. This is one of only three examples of a millstone with a sculpted phallus found in Roman Britain.

 

A millstone fragment with a sculpted phallus on its surface.
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Artefact
Portrait of Kate Brady

Kate is in our finds lab

 

Found in Oxfordshire, this lovely teabowl rim in tin-glazed ware (delftware) has delicately hand-painted Chinese-style decoration. Possibly made at Vauxhall, London. Date c 1720-60.

 

A pottery fragment with hand painted brown and green Chinese-style floral decoration
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Artefact