DIG is a hands-on archaeological adventure where young explorers (recommended for ages 5–12) can become real archaeologists for the day. With help from our friendly team, you’ll uncover some of York’s most fascinating stories, buried underground for nearly 2,000 years! DIG is split into three zones: Learn, Uncover, and Explore, each one taking you through a different part of the archaeological journey.
Whether it’s your first time digging or you’re already into archaeology, there’s something here for everyone. And it’s not just for kids. Adults can join our special Dig Deeper tours at the end of the day, perfect for anyone curious about York’s incredible past. Have you ever wondered what archaeologists really do? It’s not about treasure hunting or swinging through caves like Indiana Jones! The truth is quite different.
In the Learn area of your visit, you’ll discover how archaeologists study the past. You’ll find out what kinds of things they look for and how these discoveries reveal stories about people who lived long ago. Your guide will explain the process and answer all your questions. You’ll even get to hold real artefacts, objects once used by people hundreds or even thousands of years ago! Now, pick up your trowel and start digging! In the Uncover area, you get to find the artefacts. We have four recreated dig pits, each based on a real excavation here in York.
Blake Street: Dig through the remains of a Roman barracks from the 2nd century, and discover what life was like for soldiers in ancient Eboracum.
Coppergate: Explore the Viking pit, inspired by one of the world’s most famous excavations—the reason JORVIK Viking Centre exists today.
Fishergate: Unearth the ruins of St Andrew’s Priory, a medieval church that once housed a community of priests.
Hungate: Dig into Victorian York and uncover the living conditions of people in the 19th century.
Own or work here?