Discover hidden history at Derbyshire Archaeology Day

By Mollie Brown - 19 January 2023

People are being invited to learn more about recent historical discoveries from across the county and get hands-on with history at Derbyshire Archaeology Day.

At the event on Saturday 21 January at the Winding Wheel Theatre in Chesterfield, there will be a series of guest talks on topics including Peveril Castle, excavations in Bolsover, and the ‘Anchor Church’ cave.

There will also be some free hands-on activities in the Winding Wheel Ballroom that are suitable for the whole family, as part of the event being organised by the Derbyshire Archaeology Day group.

The council’s partners at Wessex Archaeology will be bringing their virtual reality experience that will allow visitors to explore the inside of iconic historical buildings, including an Iron Age roundhouse. There will be artefact handling, with the opportunity to get up close and personal with Roman archaeological objects and people will also be able to have a go at sifting through small pebbles to retrieve environmental evidence.

Meghan King, the Finds Liaison Officer for Derbyshire and Nottinghamshire, will also be attending to help people identify their mystery objects or archaeological treasures.

Councillor Kate Sarvent, Chesterfield Borough Council’s cabinet member for town centres and visitor economy, said: “Whether you are a history expert or just have an interest in our county, you’ll be sure to enjoy Derbyshire Archaeology Day. The activities in the Ballroom will allow the whole family to be entertained whilst learning about our history.”

Derbyshire Archaeology Day takes place from 9.45am until 4.20pm. More information about the schedule for the day and the talks taking place is available on the council’s website: www.chesterfield.gov.uk/home/events/derbyshire-archaeology-day

Tickets for are £11 and can be booked on the Winding Wheel website: www.chesterfieldtheatres.co.uk/shows/derbyshire-archaeology-day

The drop-in sessions run by Wessex Archaeology and Meghan King take place from 11am until 3pm and these free activities do not need to be booked.