Museums hold some incredible archaeological collections, but sometimes the best place to see and experience history is to visit archaeology in situ. Around the UK, there are plenty of sites with ancient remains and artifacts, many of which are free to access. Check out this guide to three of the best areas to travel to if you want to experience some history in the open air.
Avebury, Wiltshire
Avebury is not too far from Stone Henge, which is perhaps the most famous outdoor historical site in the UK. Constructed at around the same time, the Avebury stones form a long line of stone monuments that historians believe were used for ritual purposes. Close by, there is also a mound which is in fact an ancient rubbish tip—as grass and turf grew over the discarded pots and tools, a small hill was formed.
Dartmoor, Devon
Across the Dartmoor National Park, there are countless Bronze Age artifacts that have been left behind in this rugged and desolate landscape. Check out the impressive Bronze Age village of Grimspound, located three miles away from the village of Moretonhampstead. You could also travel to the White Horse Hill site, where there is a Bronze Age burial chamber which was recently excavated by archaeologists. This chamber yielded some of the most impressive finds, including entirely intact jewelry and clothing.
Hadrian’s Wall, Northumberland
This famous and impressive wall once spanned the entire width of the country, and even today large sections are incredibly well preserved. While access to the wall itself is free, you can also pay to enter well-preserved Roman-era forts along the length of the wall.