Nothing beats the excitement of hands-on archaeology, and with the new digging season almost upon us, there is no time to lose.

This is a chance to get practical experience, either before heading off to university, or putting into practice what has been studied in theory. But for most, this is simply a glorious way to pass the time.

Our guide covers the full gamut of locations, periods, and types: from fieldwalking to recording and cataloguing, from early Neolithic to Medieval and later – there is something for everyone. Some jobs require stamina, but many do not. Young or old, fit or not, time rich or time poor, all you need is enthusiasm and a desire to get involved.

Use the options below to sort the digs by area, by cost, or by time period – whatever your budget or area of interest, there will be something to suit you. If you don’t have much time to spare try the ‘Dig for a Day’ list, or ‘All Inclusive’ if you want food and accommodation within the cost. There is also an Advice and Useful Info page that will help you know what to expect, along with advice from both diggers and supervisors, as well as a handy checklist so nothing gets forgotten!

So, if you are passionate about Prehistory, interested in the Iron Age, ruminating about Romans, or looking for a new angle on the Saxons, get out into the fresh air and discover…who knows what?

In your complete guide to archaeological excavations around the country, there is no excuse not to join in: look through our list of digs, find one that suits you – then enjoy getting dirty digging up the past!