History and archaeology lovers of all ages can delve into the connections between nature and people through time, with the launch of the 2026 Festival of Archaeology at Westonbirt, The National Arboretum.
What is the Festival of Archaeology?
Organised by the Council for British Archaeology, the Festival of Archaeology is the UK's biggest annual celebration of archaeology, with events taking place across the country from talks and guided walks, to creative workshops and community field projects.
Its theme for 2026, Archaeology and Nature, aims to reveal how humans have shaped and been shaped by the environment around them, exploring climate, geology, animals, plants, landscapes and the effect of nature on archaeological sites and buildings.
What's on at Westonbirt for the 2026 Festival of Archaeology?
Visitors can get free admission to Westonbirt on the day of the festival launch, with a full programme of events and activities planned – including demonstrations of traditional bronze casting from Ancient Craft, who 'wowed' audiences at last year’s festival, using a charcoal-fuelled furnace to melt bronze into liquid.
Medieval re-enactment group Regia Anglorum will be giving living history displays, and the Boss Morris dancing side from Stroud – who have performed everywhere from Green Man Festival to the Brit Awards – will lead workshops on the day, too.
In the Great Oak Hall, there's a chance to hear from leading historians and authors including Jonathan Mullard, discussing his book Forgotten Forests; and Susan Greaney, author of Stonehenge – The Story of an Icon.
There's also a drop-in families activity where children can make their own tree ring art; while popular story telling team, Career in Ruins, will be interviewing participants and capturing highlights from the day to share across their podcast and YouTube channels.
When is Westonbirt Arboretum's Festival of Archaeology launch event?
The launch event takes place on the first day of the festival, Saturday 18 July 2026, with activities and talks at various times throughout the day.
How much is entry to the Festival of Archaeology at Westonbirt Arboretum?
For one day only, the arboretum is opening its gates free of charge – with booking recommended to guarantee entry, as the event is expected to be popular.
How to book?
To book free day admission for the event, or for the full details of everything happening on the day, visit forestryengland.uk/westonbirt/festival-archaeology.
