Festival ofArchaeology
Archaeology isn't just about digging holes - it's about uncovering adventures, mysteries and stories waiting to be told.
As part of the UK's annual Festival of Archaeology, the nation's biggest celebration of archaeology coordinated by the Council for British Archaeology, we're inviting visitors of all ages to explore shipwreck discoveries, get hands-on with historic objects, meet maritime archaeologists and go behind the scenes to see how remarkable finds are researched, conserved and displayed.
From family-friendly activities to exclusive tours and talks, there's a treasure trove of experiences waiting to be discovered.
Secrets from the Seabed
Behind the Scenes at MAST Archaeological Centre
What happens when an archaeological treasure is recovered from the seabed? Step behind the scenes at the MAST Archaeological Centre (Maritime Archaeology Sea Trust) and discover the remarkable work that takes place after an object emerges from the water.
Led by maritime archaeologists from Bournemouth University alongside members of the museum team, these exclusive tours offer a rare opportunity to explore conservation facilities not usually open to the public.
Visitors will discover how science, conservation and research are used to investigate maritime finds and preserve them for future generations. There will also be the chance to see newly recovered timbers from Studland Bay and learn about the stories hidden beneath Dorset's waters.
Please note: This event is at the MAST unit, not at Poole Museum
- Saturday 18 July, 11-11:45am and 12.15-1pm
- We will have a BSL (British Sign Language) interpreter for both sessions on Saturday 18 July to ensure the event is accessible to Deaf attendees and BSL users.
- Saturday 1 August, 11-11:45am and 12.15-1pm
Free admission | Booking essential | Suitable for ages 12+ | Maximum 14 participants per tour
MAST Archaeological Centre is on an industrial site. The ground floor of the building is accessible and has an accessible toilet.
There is parking available near the MAST unit along Cowley Road. The address is: Unit 19 Cowley Road, Nuffield Industrial Estate, Poole, Dorset, BH17 0UJ
Hands-On Archaeology
Family Activities
Ever wondered what it's like to be an archaeologist? Head to The Loft (Level 5) and roll up your sleeves for an afternoon of hands-on discovery.
Inspired by both archaeology and the natural world, these family-friendly sessions offer the chance to explore how archaeologists uncover clues about the past and piece together the stories they tell.
Try sorting archaeological finds, handle museum objects, and discover some of the tools and techniques used by archaeologists every day. These relaxed drop-in sessions are perfect for curious minds and aspiring explorers of all ages.
Please be advised children under the age of 16 must be supervised by a parent or guardian throughout the workshop.
Wednesday 22 and 29 July, 1-4pm
Free drop-in activity | Booking required
Stories from the Seabed
The Journey from Discovery to Display
From seabed to showcase, every object has a story.
Join maritime archaeologist Tom Cousins and Jacqui Arnold, part of the team behind Poole Museum's Shipwreck Gallery, for an engaging evening exploring how underwater discoveries become museum exhibits.
Through conversation and discussion, they'll reveal how maritime archaeology, conservation and interpretation work together to uncover Dorset's seafaring past. Discover how new finds are researched, cared for and transformed into the stories and displays visitors see in the museum today.
Wednesday 29 July, 5.30pm–7pm
With BSL Interpreter
Before the event begins, enjoy exclusive access to the Shipwreck Gallery from 5.30pm–6pm, with the talk starting promptly at 6pm.
£8 per person | Booking essential | Suitable for ages 14+
Pop-Up Object Handling Tables
Archaeology is all about making connections with the people who came before us – and sometimes the best way to do that is by getting up close to the objects they left behind.
Throughout the Festival of Archaeology, keep an eye out for pop-up handling tables appearing across the museum galleries on selected days. When available, these informal drop-in sessions provide opportunities to get hands-on with a changing selection of real and replica objects and hear the fascinating stories behind them.
No two sessions are quite the same, so keep an eye out as you explore the museum. You never know what treasures might be waiting to be discovered.
Free drop-in activity available on selected days during the Festival of Archaeology.
Every year, the Festival of Archaeology brings together museums, heritage organisations, archaeologists and communities across the UK to celebrate the discoveries that help us better understand the past.
This year's programme at the museum, shines a spotlight on Dorset's unique maritime heritage and the stories hidden both beneath the seabed and within our collections. From behind-the-scenes tours and family activities to fascinating talks and hands-on encounters with history, there's something for everyone to enjoy.
Wherever curiosity leads, a new discovery is waiting. Come and uncover the past this summer at Poole Museum's Festival of Archaeology 2026.
