Festival of Archaeology

Dig into history this summer as we join in with the annual Festival of Archaeology with family activities, expert talks and fascinating local discoveries.

Excavate in our big dig pit, follow our archaeology passport trail through the museum, test their knowledge with our ‘archaeology or palaeontology?’ quiz, and get creative with pottery drawing. Every activity completed earns a sticker – it’s archaeology made fun.

From hands-on excavation to talks from leading archaeologists, there’s something for curious minds of every age. Whether you’re bringing the grandchildren for a summer holiday adventure or you’re passionate about the archaeology of Thanet and Kent, join us to uncover the remarkable history of our local landscape.

Family Activities

Available on all open days (Wednesday to Sunday, 11am-4pm) throughout the Festival (Saturday 18th July – Sunday 2nd August), families can become archaeologists for the day with a range of hands-on activities across the museum, including:

• Excavate hidden treasures in our giant archaeology dig pit.
• Follow the Archaeology Passport Trail through the museum.
• Put your knowledge to the test with our ‘Archaeology or Palaeontology?’ quiz.
• Get creative with pottery drawing inspired by archaeological finds.

Complete every activity to earn your archaeology sticker!

All family activities are included in your standard admission ticket.

Expert Talks

Join us on selected dates for a series of special talks exploring Thanet’s rich archaeological heritage and the remarkable people who uncovered it.

Ges Moody
Saturday 18 July, 2pm
Thanet’s Archaeology and Me: Excavations, Observations and Reflections on Twenty Years with the Trust for Thanet Archaeology
Join Ges Moody as he reflects on two decades of excavations, discoveries and observations with the Trust for Thanet Archaeology, sharing insights into the area’s rich archaeological heritage.

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Victoria Hosegood
Sunday 19 July – 2.00pm
An introduction to the Thanet Archaeological Landscapes Mapping Project, including an update on the project’s latest discoveries since Victoria’s popular talk at the museum last year.

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Trevor and Vera Gibbons
Saturday 25 July – 12.30pm
Discover the pioneering archaeological work of Antoinette (Tony) Powell-Cotton, exploring her professional excavations at Minnis Bay and her innovative intertidal excavation techniques, which helped reveal important evidence of Thanet’s past.

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Pete Knowles
Sunday 26 July – 2.00pm
The Lost Worlds of the Palaeolithic: The Evidence from East Kent
Explore the prehistoric landscapes of East Kent and discover what archaeological evidence reveals about the people and environments of the Palaeolithic period.

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Talks are £14 per person and include tea or coffee, plus admission to the museum, house and gardens.