Archaeological digs offer a unique opportunity to uncover history firsthand. Whether you’re an aspiring archaeologist, a history enthusiast, or simply looking for an immersive experience, volunteering on a dig can be both educational and rewarding. This guide outlines how to find opportunities, what to expect, and where to get involved – including a list of active UK excavations currently accepting volunteers.
Choosing the Right Excavation
Before applying, consider the following:
- Location preference – Local or international?
- Time period of interest – Roman, Viking, Medieval, or prehistoric?
- Level of commitment – Casual volunteering or serious academic research?
- Costs involved – Some digs require fees for accommodation and training.
Where to Find Opportunities
Academic & Research-Based Excavations
These projects are often run by universities, museums, or heritage organisations and provide structured training.
- Archaeological Institute of America (AIA) Fieldwork Portal – Lists global digs, including free opportunities.
- Current Archaeology (UK) – Regularly updates on British excavations needing volunteers.
- Council for British Archaeology (CBA) – Promotes community digs and fieldwork schools.
- National Trust & Historic England – Occasionally run volunteer-friendly excavations.
Volunteer Tourism & Paid Programmes
For those seeking a blend of travel and archaeology, these organisations offer structured experiences (usually at a cost).
- Earthwatch – Combines archaeology with conservation projects.
- Projects Abroad – Offers placements in Europe and South America.
- DigVentures – Crowdfunded excavations with public participation.
Current UK Archaeological Digs Accepting Volunteers
| Site Name | Location | Period | Organisation |
|---|---|---|---|
| Vindolanda | Northumberland | Roman | Vindolanda Trust |
| Must Farm | Cambridgeshire | Bronze Age | Cambridge Archaeological Unit |
| Tintagel Castle | Cornwall | Medieval | English Heritage |
| Caerau Hillfort | Cardiff | Iron Age | CAER Heritage Project |
| Binchester Roman Fort | County Durham | Roman | Durham University |
| Silchester Roman Town | Hampshire | Roman | University of Reading |
| Sutton Hoo | Suffolk | Anglo-Saxon | National Trust |
Note: Availability varies by season, check each project’s website for updates.
Requirements for Volunteers
- No prior experience needed (training provided).
- Good physical fitness (digging, kneeling, and lifting required).
- Minimum age 16+ (some digs require 18+).
- Time commitment (typically 1-4 weeks).
Some excavations may charge a fee to cover food, lodging, or insurance.
What Volunteers Do on Site
- Excavating – Using trowels, brushes, and sieves.
- Recording finds – Labelling, cleaning, and cataloguing artefacts.
- Surveying – Assisting with mapping and photography.
- Attending workshops – Learning about conservation and analysis.
Essential Packing List
- Sturdy boots or wellingtons
- Weather-appropriate clothing (waterproofs, sun hat)
- Work gloves and knee pads
- Notebook, camera, and reusable water bottle
Final Advice
- Apply early – Popular digs fill up quickly.
- Check reviews – Speak to past volunteers if possible.
- Consider academic credit – Some universities recognise fieldwork experience.
Volunteering on an archaeological dig is a chance to contribute to real discoveries while gaining hands-on experience. Whether in the UK or abroad, there’s a dig out there for every level of interest and expertise.
For the latest opportunities, visit Current Archaeology or the Council for British Archaeology.
