History and nature will come together this summer as the UK’s biggest celebration of archaeology officially gets underway at Westonbirt, the National Arboretum.
The Festival of Archaeology returns from 18 July to 2 August, with this year’s theme exploring the relationship between archaeology and the natural world. To mark the opening, Forestry England is throwing open the gates of Westonbirt free of charge for a special launch event on Saturday, 18 July.
Visitors can expect a packed programme designed to appeal to all ages, with guided walks, live demonstrations, talks and hands-on activities exploring how landscapes and people have shaped one another through the centuries.
Among the attractions will be award-winning experimental archaeologists James Dilley and Emma Jones from Ancient Craft, alongside medieval re-enactors Regia Anglorum. Stroud’s Boss Morris will also be performing and leading workshops, while the team behind the popular Career in Ruins podcast will be recording interviews and highlights from the day.
Inside the Great Oak Hall, visitors can hear a series of conversations with leading writers and historians, including Jonathan Mullard discussing the new paperback edition of Forgotten Forests, Susan Greaney speaking about Stonehenge – The Story of an Icon, and Wyl Menmuir exploring The Spirit of Stone. Cathy Tattersfield will also lead an afternoon celebrating Gloucestershire’s rich tradition of folk songs.
Local archaeology groups and heritage organisations will also be on hand throughout the day, alongside family-friendly activities including interactive ‘If Trees Could Talk’ sessions.
Dr Laurence Shaw, Lead Historic Environment Advisor at Forestry England, said the arboretum was an ideal venue for the festival’s launch.
“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.
“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 attracted more than 123,000 visitors to almost 500 events across the UK, while its online content reached more than 64 million people.
Although entry to Westonbirt is free for the launch event, organisers recommend booking in advance due to expected demand.
