There are three ways to become involved in the Big Roman Dig

1. Apply to take part in a dig or other activity
2. Do a desktop survey
3. Undertake a photo research project

Excavating a site © Matt Reynolds

1. Apply to take part in a dig or other activity

From 26 June to 16 July this year excavations and other activities will be going on all over the country. They may be organised by a local society or museum or by another group, but all the data they collect will be entered into our database to add to the Big Roman Dig map of Britain.

There will be
The 9 key Time Team Big Roman Dig excavations
Other digs
Field-walking
Reconstructions
Open days
Poetry readings
...you name it!

You may be required to give up a number of days or you may be able to turn up on the day.

The decision of how many people can be involved and what the criteria are for involvement rests with the organising group or society.

You will have to pay for your own transport to and from the activity, any necessary accommodation and expenses.

Find activities near you...

Hod Hill © English Heritage

2. Do a desktop survey

We are also looking for individuals who would like to run desktop research on Roman occupation in their area or another area of the country – and you don't even have to leave your armchair!

A desktop survey comprises the background research that an archaeologist does before they even start to dig. Your data may cover
Aerial photographs
Library and local history references
Map research

You will enter all of this data into our database to add to the Big Roman Dig map of Britain.

You can get some inspiration in our Find out more section.

Apply to undertake desktop research here...

A beautiful silver finger ring incorporating an intaglio stone carved with a crustacean © Corinium Museum

3. Undertake a photo research project

Do you enjoy photography? Help us to create a snapshot of Britain during the Big Roman Dig week. We are looking for photographs of Roman roads, finds and remains that we can feature on the site and that will give us a picture of what the Romans left behind.

The photos should be taken between 26 June and 16 July 2005. And if they're really good we'll feature them on the main pages of the site!

Apply to undertake a photo research project...