About
County Durham and Darlington Archaeology Day 2026: Explore new archaeological discoveries across County Durham and Darlington at this one‑day conference featuring talks, finds and displays.
We are delighted to invite you to a day of talks and displays exploring some of the most exciting recent archaeological work in County Durham and Darlington. The conference will be held in the Richard D. Chambers FRS Lecture Theatre (CG85), located on the Lower Mount Joy site of Durham University.
Programme
The day will feature a series of engaging talks highlighting new discoveries and ongoing research, including:
10:30-11:00 Jamies Armstrong (Archaeological Services Durham University)-Excavations in Darlington Town Centre, 2013-2019
11:00-11.30 Stuart Ross (Cura Terrae)- An Iron Age hillyopm Settlement at Forrest Park, Newton Aycliffe
11:30-12:00 Roman O'Donnell (Archaeological Services Durham University) Excavations at Bluehouse Bank, Pelton Fell
Break
13:15-13:45 Niall Hammond & Caroline Hardie-Stockton and Darlington Railway: S&DR200
13:45-14:15 Andrew Ferrara- Recent work at Durham Castle
14:15:14:45 Gary Bankhead-From Roman Foundations to Medieval Faith: Archaeological Discoveries in the River Wear
Break
15:15-15:45 Emily Williams (Durham University) Conserving major hoards: the Melsonby Hoard and the Eggleston Hoard.
15:45-16:15 Caroline Smith and Rosie Jones (Portable Antiquities Scheme)- Portable Antiquities Scheme in 2025: recent discoveries and finds of note.
This programme is suitable for anyone interested in archaeology, local history, or heritage. There will be displays by local societies and archaeological contractors as well as bookstalls.
Access and Facilities
We want the event to be welcoming and accessible to everyone. Detailed, independently verified information about building access, routes, and facilities is available through AccessAble - Your Accessibility Guide. Tickets available from Eventbrite
.png )
Find out what’s happening this week across the Culture County. From festivals and exhibitions, to sport and theatre, you’re certain to have an eventful time in Durham.
