MK City Council invites local community to celebrate MK Archaeology Day

Milton Keynes City Council have invited the local community to attend its annual free Archaeology Day at Church of Christ the Cornerstone in the city centre on 1 November.

History enthusiasts and anyone with an interest in archaeology are welcome to visit the event and learn about the fascinating archaeological heritage of Milton Keynes and beyond. The day features hands-on-activities and displays in the morning (Ages 8+), and in the afternoon talks on finds from developments (Ages 12+), including the discovery of a Roman mosaic in Olney, excavations on MK East, and a special guest presentation on the extensive excavations across Cambridgeshire and Bedfordshire ahead of the A428 Black Cat to Caxton Gibbet road scheme.  

Participants will have the opportunity to explore fascinating artifacts, learn about ancient civilisations and engage with experts passionate about unearthing secrets of the past.

Entry is completely free and families are encouraged to come along for a fun day of learning and activities. Displays and activities will run from 10am to 12:30pm, including the MK East Pop-Up Museum and hands-on archaeology activity hosted by Pre-Construct Archaeology and RPS. Visitors can also explore engaging exhibits from Milton Keynes Heritage Association, BAS Active Archaeology Group, UNAS, CLASP and local metal detectorists. 

The rest of the programme includes:

• 1pm: Buildings, Baths and a Mosaic: A Glimpse into a Roman Settlement at Olney – John Boothroyd, Oxford Archaeology
• 1:50pm: Cups, Coins, and Cows: Unravelling the late Iron Age at MK East – Mark Hinman, Judy Mlynarska & Jenn Hulse, Pre-Construct Archaeology
• 2:40pm: A Farmer’s Life Along the A428: Revealing Bedfordshire & Cambridgeshire’s Ancient Settlements – Sanda Vucicic, Museum of London Archaeology

Cabinet Member for Planning and Placemaking, Cllr Shanika Mahendran, said, “Archaeology Day is a fantastic opportunity for residents of all ages to connect with the rich history beneath our feet. We encourage everyone to come along, explore the displays, take part in the activities and discover the fascinating stories that shape our local heritage.”