The Gloucester Festival of Archaeology returns from 14th to 26th July 2025, offering an immersive exploration of the city’s hidden past. Presented in partnership with Gloucester BID Gloucester Cathedral, Gloucester Civic Trust, Museum of Gloucester, Gloucestershire Archaeology, and more, the festival invites residents and visitors alike to delve into centuries of local heritage.
From expert-led talks—covering topics such as Roman Gloucester, the docks, and the top archaeological finds in the region—to hands-on digs, self-guided trails, and family-friendly workshops, the programme brings history to life. Highlights include the 3D artwork, “Archaeologist for a Day” activities, fossil hunts, and the ever-popular Festival Day on Saturday 26th July, with free events across Gloucester Cathedral, the Eastgate Shopping Centre, and throughout historic venues in the city centre.
Canon Rebecca Lloyd, Director of Learning and Participation at Gloucester Cathedral, said:
“We are delighted to be part of Gloucester’s Festival of Archaeology once again this summer. Gloucester has such a long and rich history, much of which has left traces in the buildings we love all around us and in the ground beneath our feet… It’s great to be able to offer such a range of inclusive, informative and fun activities for people of all ages to come and learn more about our wonderful city and the heritage we all own in it.”
Marc Waters, Gloucester Civic Trust, instrumental in shaping the festival’s public engagement, added:
“Working alongside Gloucester Cathedral and heritage venues across the city, the Civic Trust is proud to help shine a light on the hidden archaeological treasures of Gloucester—bringing community, history, and discovery together in this vibrant two week celebration.”
Families can get hands on and experience what it’s like to dig up finds at historic locations such as Gloucester Cathedral
Key Events
• Archaeology of Gloucester Docks Talk (Wednesday 16th July, 19:00-20:00) Local historian Tony Conder showing the change of the canal and dock over the last 200 years at The Folk of Gloucester, 99-103 Westgate Street.
• Archaeology ID Finds Day (Saturday 19th July, 11:00–16:00)
Bring your artefacts to the Museum of Gloucester for expert analysis.
• Hands-on Dig (Sunday 20th July, 10:30–16:00)
Supervised by Gloucestershire Archaeology—unearth Gloucester’s buried history!
• Surgeon Ready to See You (Friday 25th July, 10:00-16:00)
Come as see the Tudor Barber in St Michael’s Tower, see if he can cure you.
• Archaeology Trail (All festival days)
Discover hidden sites across the city using an interactive trail guide.
• Festival Day (Saturday 26th July, 10:00–16:00)
A full day of free events, including 3D art, fossil hunts, family digs, and more across Cathedral precincts, St Michael’s Tower, St Mary de Crypt, and Eastgate Shopping Centre.
Tickets & Information
Many events are free or low-cost, with advanced booking advised. Tickets and full programme details are available online here and you can pick up a programme at all participating venues.