Wiltshire is notable for its pre-Roman archaeology, particularly Salisbury Plain which is home to the Stonehenge prehistoric landscape. The Mesolithic, Neolithic and Bronze Age people that occupied southern Britain built settlements on the hills and downland that cover Wiltshire, the remains of which are still visible today. Important archaeological sites include:
- The Stonehenge and Avebury World Heritage sites.
- Silbury Hill, the largest man-made mound in Europe, dating to 2400BC.
- Durrington Walls, the site of a large Neolithic settlement and later henge monument.
- Iron Age hill forts at Membury Camp, Fosbury Camp and Ringsbury Camp.
- Littlecote Roman villa.
- Lacock medieval village and abbey.
- Wardour Castle, a 14th century lightly fortified luxury residence.
- The 800 year-old Salisbury Cathedral which boasts the tallest spire in England.
- Longleat House with its stunning Elizabethan architecture.
Explore artefacts and coins from Wiltshire and recorded on the Portable Antiquities Scheme database. There’s even more about Wiltshire finds and volunteering on our blog.
To get involved, try one of the museums, clubs or societies, or come to a local event. Contact us to learn more about volunteering for the Portable Antiquities Scheme.
