National Archaeology Week

Worcestershire Historic Environment and Archaeology Service staff are getting out and about for National Archaeology Week, and they’re inviting you to join them! Whether you fancy getting stuck in on a real excavation, walking through time along the banks of the River Severn, or just enjoying the sunshine and watching others do the hard work, there’s no excuse for not getting involved in this year’s celebration of all things archaeological.

Kicking off National Archaeology Week in Worcestershire on Saturday 12^th July, Historic Environment and Record Officer Deborah Overton will be leading a 5km guided walk through Northwick and Bevere, starting at the Northwick Lido Nature Reserve car park at 2pm.

“Join us for a walk through time and find out about the ancient river crossing point, Viking encampment and medieval manor and bishop’s palace that once stood along the Northwick Heritage Trail” says Deborah.

The following weekend- Saturday 19^th and Sunday 20^th July, 11am- 4pm- county archaeologists will be excavating an 18^th century latrine at Croome Park, and giving you a chance to help! If digging’s not your thing, there will also be a display about lavatories through the ages and an opportunity to examine the contents of a medieval cesspit through a microscope. Croome Park entrance fees apply - £4.80 adults, £2.40 children- special family and group rates.

“We’ll be getting to the bottom of the rumours about this forgotten corner of the beautiful landscape gardens at Croome Park. Come along and help us dig for dirt!” says Historic Environment and Record Officer Emma Hancox.  

For more information, contact Deborah or Emma on 01905 855494.

Become the next Indiana Jones at Hartlebury Castle!

The County Museum at Hartlebury’s getting in on the action too, inviting budding Indiana Joneses to get some hands-on experience of archaeology at a special Exploring Archaeology weekend- 11am-5pm, Saturday 19^th and Sunday 20^th, Hartlebury Castle. Admission to the museum costs £4 for adults, £2 for children and concessions and £10 for a family ticket.

For more information go to www.worcestershire.gov.uk/museum or phone 01299 250416.