FESTIVAL OF ARCHAEOLOGY 2026

Free Family Event

Saturday 18 July 2026, 11am–4pm

 
FREE drop-in activities for all ages

Dig into the world of plants at this Festival of Archaeology at the Ashmolean. Inspired by our current Shaped by Nature season, this year's family festival will offer hands-on activities around the galleries and explore how people used plants in the past.  

Drop in anytime during the day and get creative with plant-inspired crafts, storytelling, and live demonstrations that explore collections across the Museum. Try your hand at weaving, make your own botanical pen, excavate archaeological poo, and discover smells of the past.

DOWNLOAD THE FULL PROGRAMME PDF

This event is free and no booking is required. Booking is required for one activity, the Botanical tour – more information can be found below.

This event is part of our Shaped by Nature season of events.

JOIN A BOTANICAL FAMILY TOUR

Go on a plant-inspired tour of the Ashmolean galleries with Dr Jade Whitlam, lecturer in archaeology and archaeobotanist. Explore the different ways plants have been used throughout history to make and decorate objects, to eat and drink, and as medicine. 

11:30am – 12:30pm. Meet in the Randolph Sculpture Gallery. Suitable for ages 12+

Tickets are £15. Booking is essential

BOOK FOR THE FAMILY TOUR