County Durham and Darlington Archaeology Day 2026

We are delighted to invite you to a day of talks and displays exploring some of the most exciting recent archaeological work in County Durham and Darlington. The conference will be held in the Richard D. Chambers FRS Lecture Theatre (CG85), located on the Lower Mount Joy site of Durham University.

Programme

The day will feature a series of engaging talks highlighting new discoveries and ongoing research, including:

Excavations in Darlington town centre – what has been found and what it tells us about the area’s past.

The Stockton & Darlington Railways (S&DR 200) – new archaeological research linked to the 200th anniversary.

The Portable Antiquities Scheme in 2025 – updates on recent finds reported by the public.

Conserving major hoards – including work on the Melsonby Hoard and the Eggleston Hoard.

Recent archaeology at Durham Castle – new discoveries and what they reveal about the site.

Archaeological discoveries in the River Wear – from Roman remains to medieval activity.

This programme is suitable for anyone interested in archaeology, local history, or heritage. There will be displays by local societies and archaeological contractors as well as bookstalls.

Access and Facilities

We want the event to be welcoming and accessible to everyone. Detailed, independently verified information about building access, routes, and facilities is available through AccessAble - Your Accessibility Guide.

Address:

Richard D. Chambers FRS Lecture Theatre (CG85)

Chemistry Department

Lower Mount Joy

South Road

Durham

DH1 3LE

What3words ///orbit.little.gravel

Parking

Limited free parking is available on site. If you intend to park, please ensure you book a parking ticket, as spaces cannot be guaranteed without one. Alternatively parking can be found throughout Durham City Durham City car parks - Durham County Council

Lunch

Lunch tickets include a selection of:

• Vegan, vegetarian, fish, or meat sandwiches
• Pork and caramelised red onion sausage rolls
• Fresh fruit bowls

Please let us know any dietary requirements when registering so we can cater for you. Lunch tickets are available until 28 February.

Refreshment

To help keep ticket prices as affordable as possible, tea and coffee will be provided at lunchtime. You’re very welcome to bring your own drinks or snacks to enjoy during the day.

This event is being organised by Durham County Council Archaeology Section and Durham University Museum of Archaeology.

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Host or Publisher Museum of Archaeology, Durham University