Archaeology Research

Archaeology Enriches us all (pdf)

Archaeology is a unique place-based discipline dedicated to helping people understand and shape the places and communities in which they live, work and play. Archaeological processes are creative, scientifically rigorous, and economically important for all corners of the UK.

Our landscapes, whether urban or rural, coastal, marine or upland, have all been shaped by past human activity over thousands of years. Archaeology gives us the tools and processes to understand them, learn from them and to enjoy and reimagine them. 

Archaeology is an activity enjoyed by individuals, families and communities, and a subject that inspires millions via TV documentaries, film, and in the news. Its benefits are many and it is important that we ensure its future so that it can continue to thrive.

Objects recovered through archaeological endeavours usually become part of museum and archive  collections, forming key components for further study and analysis.  Museums and galleries are vibrant threads in the fabric of society, strengthening our culture, encouraging a thriving tourist industry, and enriching lives by contributing to our collective wellbeing, education, and sense of identity.

Archaeology is a statutory consideration and is embedded in policy frameworks such as planning, agriculture, forestry, and marine management.

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First published: 6 October 2025