The Durotriges Project ‘Big Dig’ Field School is a Bournemouth University summer field school by current students and experienced archaeologists. The fieldwork takes place within Dorset, a county of outstanding natural beauty and one of the best-preserved archaeological landscapes in Britain.

Watch our video from The Big Dig 2022 to find out more. 

The Durotriges Project

The Durotriges Project is studying the role that Dorset's ancient Iron Age societies played in networks of production, exchange and communication with the rest of Britain and the continent. Students from our range of archaeology courses are able to gain hands-on experience at a fascinating site examining prehistoric roundhouses, production areas and cemeteries, while those with an interest in archaeology, Dorset's history, or the project as a whole are welcome to join us.

Updates and information can be found on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter. You can also follow our video diary

Read more about the 2015 dig that uncovered the prehistoric town, the 2016 dig during which we found a late Iron Age cemetery and a late or post Roman farming settlement, consisting of five buildings and associated kilns and ovens, dating to the period AD 300–450, and the 2017 excavation which told us more about every day life.

Please note: You must be aged 16 or over to take part. Further information, including essential kit, specific timings, and joining instructions, can be obtained by emailing [email protected].

Key information

Next start date:

Next start date: Monday 3rd June - Friday 5th July 2024

Location:

Winterborne Kingston, Dorset

Duration:

5 weeks

Entry requirements:

No formal qualifications are required to attend the field school, which has been designed for students and volunteer participants (aged 16 years or over) who wish to gain experience in archaeological field practice.