Festival event listing

This talk with curator Vanessa Oakden, Curator of Regional and Community Archaeology, will explore the archaeology of the region through the lens of seven fascinating excavations, highlighting some key finds and what they can tell us about this place in the past.

Join us for a wide range of free events and activities, including themed walks through the wonderful Arboretum landscape, experimental archaeology demonstrations, craft activities, living heritage displays and talks with some of the most exciting voices in British archaeology today.

Delve into the history of the former Rainham Hall tenants with our selection of items found in the hall and gardens. Dig for fossils or become a heritage detective uncovering the stories of our site.  There’s plenty for everyone at this free event.

Led by an expert presenter and designed specifically for adults interested in lifelong learning, this engaging session will uncover the hidden history of the Hittites, a people once lost to time and rediscovered only in the 20th century. Often overshadowed by the better-known civilizations of Egypt and Mesopotamia, the Hittites ruled a vast empire from their capital at Hattusa in central Anatolia (modern-day Turkey), commanding diplomacy, warfare, and culture on a grand scale.

Step beyond the glass cases. Look closer, ask deeper questions, and encounter Ancient Egypt in a way that is immersive, memorable, and richly human. Ancient Egypt Extra at World Museum Liverpool is a specially designed session that combines a guided tour of the Ancient Egypt Gallery with an exclusive hands-on handling experience, offering visitors a rare opportunity to connect with the objects, ideas, and beliefs of one of history’s most fascinating cultures.

Then we will fast‑forward to the present day, reflecting on how the study of archaeological textiles - and their deep connection with nature - can inform our modern approach to clothing consumption. This is particularly relevant in an era dominated by fast fashion, where excessive production and waste have a significant impact on the environment. Our discussion will reframe the relationship between fashion and nature, exploring how archaeological insights can inspire more sustainable practices that benefit both the fashion industry and the natural world. 

ArchAI uses AI to detect historic features at national scale, combining earthwork detection from LiDAR with habitat mapping from historic Ordnance Survey maps. This creates practical evidence for land managers and planners who need to make decisions quickly, and defensibly.

Encounter some of the country’s leading experts and those involved in discovering, preserving and presenting the best of the county’s heritage. Meet experts and browse finds, enjoy children’s activities and re-enactments, talks, tours and so much more, including food stands.

Join us for a weekend jam-packed with free creative activities inspired by Dereham's Saxon archaeological heritage.

Join us for a weekend jam-packed with free creative activities inspired by Dereham's Saxon archaeological heritage.