Uncovering Roman Carlisle: Big Summer Dig 2025
- Ages 16+
Join in with the archaeological excavations at Carlisle Cricket Club in 2023 . Visits from groups are welcomed with prior notice.
Select date and time
Location
Carlisle Cricket Club
Carlisle Cricket Club Carlisle CA3 9NS United KingdomRefund Policy
Agenda
9:00 AM - 9:15 AM
Daily Site Briefing: Health and Safety and Archaeology Update
Frank Giecco
Morning tea break is usually around 10.30am for 15 mins or so.
12:30 PM - 1:15 PM
Lunchtime
Afternoon tea break is usually around 2.30pm for 15 mins or so.
About this event
- Event lasts 7 hours 45 minutes
- Ages 16+
- Free venue parking
We’re absolutely thrilled to welcome you to the Uncovering Roman Carlisle Summer Dig 2025 – and even more excited that you’re thinking of joining us on site! This year, we’re continuing our incredible journey into Carlisle’s Roman past, right in the heart of the city, where we’ve uncovered what might be the biggest Roman building ever found on Hadrian’s Wall – a seriously impressive bathhouse that may have even hosted Emperor Severus himself.
Since the first discovery back in 2017, the site’s just kept on surprising us – with over 800 coins, hundreds of hairpins, gemstones, and even a chunk of Tyrian purple dye (yes, the super rare one that was worth more than gold!). And now, we’re digging even further.
Whether you’re a total beginner or a seasoned archaeology fan, there’s a spot for you. You can get stuck into digging, help with finds washing, sieving, or even be a friendly face for visitors to our site shop. It’s all hands on deck and every single person plays a big part in uncovering history.
Have a look at the available sessions below, and if you’ve got any questions, just give us a shout. We can’t wait to see you in the trench!
You can hear more from our volunteers about their experiences in the video below:
What are we digging this year?
This year, we’re turning our attention to the southern area of the site – a spot that’s been quietly holding onto some of the most intriguing clues to Roman Carlisle’s story.
Previous seasons have hinted that this zone was a real hotspot of activity, with the discovery of a column base suggesting a substantial structure once stood here. It’s also where many of our most mysterious and exciting finds have emerged – including both of our larger-than-life carved stone heads (yes, those giant heads!), the beautiful Fortuna head, and a number of fascinating offerings.
We can’t wait to see what more this area has to reveal – and we’re so glad you’ll be part of the team uncovering it!
Frequently asked questions
Nope! Whether you’re a seasoned trowel-wielder or this is your very first time in a trench, you’re welcome. We'll show you the ropes and guide you every step of the way.
Young people aged 16–18 are welcome as long as they’re accompanied by a responsible adult who is also booked on. Children under 16 unfortunately can’t join the dig.
The site is grassy or muddy, very uneven in places. Some areas may be challenging for those with limited mobility. We recommend getting in touch with us in advance so we can figure out how to support you in the best way.
Start: 9:00 AM sharp (sign-in and safety briefing first thing!) Make sure you arrive early enough to get ready before the briefing. End: 4:30 PM
Usually, yes! We only stop if it’s unsafe. Always come prepared for all weathers — we’re in Cumbria, after all!
Layers are key! You’ll need: Clothes that can get muddy, Waterproofs (jacket essential, trousers if it's raining), Sturdy shoes or boots (with grip), Sun hat + sunscreen if sunny, Warm hat + gloves if cold. Ideally, no skirts (they just don’t work well for digging) but please get in touch!
Lunch is not provided, so please bring your own packed lunch and snacks. We have a kettle for hot drinks and some squash/tea/coffee on hand when funds allow. There’s a fridge too (usually full of milk), but limited space. Bring a refillable water bottle – there’s drinking water on site.
Yes! There are male and female toilets on site, each with internal handwashing. Just remember: by the end of the day, everything gets a bit muddy – it’s part of the charm!
Ask us first! We love sharing our discoveries, but we have policies about what can and can’t be posted. Your trench supervisor will give you the lowdown.
Not necessarily! Let us know if you have any preferences or physical limitations, and we’ll try to accommodate them.
Archaeology can be tough on the knees, back, and shoulders – expect some bending, lifting, kneeling, and standing. That said, there are a variety of tasks (like finds washing or recording) that are less strenuous, and we’ll do our best to match you to the right one.
Yes – we take safety very seriously. There’s a compulsory safety briefing every morning and supervision throughout the day. We’ll go over tools, trench safety, and what to do in case of an emergency.
With kindness, respect, and curiosity! We’re all here to learn, enjoy, and support the research. Anyone not following safety rules, team instructions, or our dignity/social media policies may be asked to leave.