Archaeology Weekend

Take part in a family-friendly Archaeology Weekend at the National Museum of Rural Life. 

Object handling

When: Sat 25 - Sun 26 Jul

Times: 11:00 – 15:00 (drop in)

Location: Tools Gallery

Step back in time and explore our archaeology loan boxes. Discover objects from the Neolithic, Roman and Medieval periods. 

Try metal detectors

When: Sat 25 - Sun 26 Jul

Times: 11:00 – 15:00 (drop in) 

Location: Paws window 

Try your hand at metal detecting with our family activity. Can you find the hidden treasure? 

Make a clay pot

When: Sat 25 - Sun 26 Jul

Times: 10.30 - 12:30, 13:30 – 15:30 (drop in) 

Location: Learning Centre 

Learn about an ancient craft and make your own prehistoric pot in this hands-on activity developed by Archaeology Scotland. Decorate your pot with materials from the Clyde landscape. Imagine what life might have been like for Scotland’s first farmers.

Meet the experts

Location: Tools Gallery

Sat 25 - Sun 26 Jul 

Learn about archaeology, local history and heritage with the teams from: 

• ACFA Field Archaeology for All
• Langside Community Heritage
• Scottish Stonemasons’ Marks Project
• Clutha Archaeology Group

You can also enter the Scottish Stonemasons’ Marks Project ‘Find the Mark’ competition. Find all ten stonemasons’ marks hidden around the museum and win a prize. 

Sat 25 Jul only

Explore Treasure Trove Scotland’s work investigating and assessing new archaeological discoveries. 

Find out how the Treasure Trove Unit works and see some local treasures that have recently come through the system.

If you have found a real object that you think could be of archaeological significance, you can also book a free appointment to have your item assessed. 

Sun 26 July only

Times: 11:30 – 12:30 and 13:30 – 14:30 (limited places, sign up on the day)

Ages: 6+

Join workshops with University of Glasgow PhD student Bushra Bibi, who specialises in fibres and textiles from the Palaeolithic period. 

You will learn how to twist and make your own string by hand. Explore materials that may have been used during the Stone Age, and try your hand at Palaeolithic sewing techniques. 

Accessibility and facilities

We want everyone who comes to our museums to enjoy their time with us and make the most of their visit.  

Visit our accessibility page for general access information for the National Museum of Rural Life.