Welcome to the county page for Dorset. Dorset’s archaeology is rich and varied and includes:
Finds of Palaeolithic stone tools, particularly in the East of the County
A Mesolithic habitation site at Culverwell, Portland
Ancient landscapes such as the South Dorset Ridgeway with it’s numerous Neolithic and Bronze Age stones and earthworks
Iron Age hillforts , the most impressive of which is Maiden Castle near Dorchester
Roman remains ranging from roadside buildings, villas and the Roman foundations of the County town, Dorchester
The Early Medieval period is evidenced by the many minster towns and sites such as the Saxon burh at Wareham and a Viking mass grave on the South Dorset Ridgeway
You can explore the archaeology of the County in several local museums including the Dorset County Museum, the Museum of East Dorset, and the Redhouse Museum.
Explore artefacts and coins found in Dorset which have been recorded on the Portable Antiquities Scheme database. Keep an eye on news and events with our blog.
Find out how to contact us to find out more or to report archaeological objects.
