Families can enjoy a free day of archaeology, history and nature when the Council for British Archaeology’s Festival of Archaeology launches at Westonbirt, the National Arboretum, on Saturday 18 July.
Running from 18 July to 2 August, the Festival of Archaeology is the UK’s largest celebration of archaeology. This year’s theme explores the connections between archaeology and the natural world, making Westonbirt an ideal venue thanks to its internationally important tree collection and rich landscape history.
For the launch day only, visitors will be able to enter Westonbirt free of charge to explore a packed programme of family-friendly activities, demonstrations, guided walks and talks celebrating the relationship between people, forests and the landscapes around them.
Throughout the day, families can meet archaeologists, historians and authors, take part in guided walks and enjoy interactive activities including the ‘If Trees Could Talk’ family drop-in sessions.
Award-winning experimental archaeologists James Dilley and Emma Jones from Ancient Craft will return following their popular appearance at last year’s festival. Visitors can also experience living history displays from Regia Anglorum, join Morris dancing workshops led by Boss Morris from Stroud and hear stories from the archaeological storytelling team Career in Ruins, who will be recording interviews and highlights for their podcast and YouTube channel.
The Great Oak Hall will host a series of ‘in conversation’ talks featuring Jonathan Mullard, author of Forgotten Forests; Susan Greaney discussing Stonehenge – The Story of an Icon; Wyl Menmuir, author of The Spirit of Stone; and Cathy Tattersfield sharing Gloucestershire’s traditional folk songs.
Dr Laurence Shaw, Lead Historic Environment Advisor at Forestry England, said, “Forestry England is delighted to host the launch of this year’s Festival of Archaeology. Across our estate, we care for an exceptionally rich portfolio of historic assets that reveal how people have shaped the natural landscape, and how the natural environment has, in turn, influenced human lives over many millennia.
“Understanding and protecting this shared heritage is fundamental to creating resilient, sustainable woodlands for future generations. By balancing the needs of nature, people and the historic environment, we can ensure our forests continue to thrive while inspiring new audiences to explore the deep connections between culture and landscape. The Festival of Archaeology offers a fantastic opportunity to discover these hidden stories and appreciate the enduring relationship between humans, nature and forests.”
Last year’s Festival of Archaeology attracted more than 123,000 visitors to 479 events across the UK and reached over 64 million people online.
Although entry is free on the launch day, advance booking is recommended as organisers expect the event to be very popular.
For more information and to book, visit forestryengland.uk/westonbirt/festival-archaeology.
