Welcome to Durham University’s Department of Archaeology outreach and engagement page. Here you can explore our upcoming initiatives and activities taking place across the North East of England and beyond.

Through a diverse range of projects and events, we aim to make archaeology accessible to all, offering opportunities to learn about the past, engage with new discoveries, develop new skills, and get involved with research.

Between the 8th and 28th June 2026, Durham University’s Department of Archaeology and Archaeological Services will be undertaking excavations at East Park, Sedgefield, at the heart of an important Roman site. This former roadside settlement provides a unique opportunity to explore daily life in Roman Britain, from homes to workshops. Occupied between the 2nd and 4th centuries AD, the settlement is particularly unusual as it does not appear to be linked to a nearby Roman fort and offers a rare insight into civilian life beyond the Roman military frontier.

Visitors can get involved through a range of outreach activities, including guided site tours, volunteer finds washing (pre-booking required), and public talks.

To find out more about how to take part and to follow the project’s progress, please follow this link.