CBA Festival of Archaeology at Dolaucothi Gold Mines 2024
Explore archaeology at the only known Roman goldmine in the UK. Learn about the past, present and future of archaeological research at this internationally important site.
- Booking not needed
- Free event (admission applies)
Hands-on activities for all ages will run from 21 to 28 July, 10 am - 4 pm, including: Learn archaeology with UWTSD, Make Your Own Roman Oil Lamp, Take the Heritage Explorer Trail, Play Roman Games, Dress Up and do some fun Colouring In.
Special events led by Simon Timberlake and Brenda Craddock from the Early Mines Research Group for the weekend of 27 and 28 July:
Hammerstone Workshop with Brenda Craddock.
Live demonstrations of making authentic hammerstone tools which would have been used in prehistoric mines. Saturday and Sunday 11 am – 1 pm
Copper Smelting with Simon Timberlake.
Live demonstrations of smelting copper from ore to metal in a reconstruction of a prehistoric furnace. Saturday and Sunday 1.30 pm – 4 pm
Plus (Sat only 11 am) Presentation by Simon Timberlake: Archaeology of a Roman gold mine at Rosia Montana, Romania
Please note, underground mine tours will be running throughout the Festival of Archaeology but must be pre-booked.
Standard admission charges apply. National Trust members enjoy free admission.
Times
Prices
Event ticket prices
This event is free, but normal admission charges apply for the venue.
Check admission pricesThe basics
- Suitability
Children accompanied by adults are welcome.
- Meeting point
The Festival of Archaeology will be held on site at Dolaucothi Gold Mines. Car parking is free. Please report to Reception upon arrival
- What to bring and wear
Some activities and displays will be indoors but sensible footwear is recommended for outdoor areas. Please dress appropriately for the weather.
- Accessibility
The car park is at the bottom of a gentle slope but there is a drop off point nearer to the Mine Yard where most of the buildings are accessible for those with more limited mobility.
- Other
Please note the underground mines are not accessible unless on a guided tour. Guided tours must be pre-booked at www.nationaltrust.org.uk/dolaucothi or by phoning the Box Office on 0344 249 1895.
Upcoming events
BIG BUTTERFLY COUNT WALKS 2024
Join us on the Dolaucothi Estate and take part in the world's biggest survey of butterflies, Butterfly Conservation's Big Butterfly Count 2024.