Worcestershire has been a centre of industry since prehistoric times with pottery, salt and, later, wool and gloves being produced in the area. It has always been well-connected – Icknield Street Roman road runs through the county following a much earlier Neolithic trade route. Worcestershire was also the site of many famous battles including the Battle of Evesham and the first and last major battles of the English Civil War. Important archaeological sites include:
- Iron Age hill forts at Berry Mound, Woodbury Hill, Wychbury Ring and Bredon Hill.
- Roman skeletons were found in the village of Overbury, two Roman villas have been found near Droitwich Spa and Icknield Street passes through the county.
- The city walls around Worcester which were built between the 1st and 17th century, sequences of which are still visible.
- Worcester Cathedral and Pershore Abbey, both of which were founded in the 7th century.
- The historic houses of Harvington Hall and Witley Court.
- The Battle of Evesham battlefield.
Explore artefacts and coins found in Worcestershire and recorded on the Portable Antiquities Scheme database. There’s even more about Worcestershire 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.
