Festival of Archaeology at Yeavering (Original site of Ad Gefrin)

Friday 31 August - Sunday 2 August 2026 | Nr Yeavering

Presented in collaboration with The Gefrin Trust, Durham University & Ad Gefrin

Step into the ancient world of Northumbria at the Festival of Archaeology – a unique, on-site event held at Gefrin, the site of the royal Anglo-Saxon Summer Palace located just 4 miles from Wooler at Yeavering.

This festival, over two days, invites visitors of all ages to explore the rich archaeology, history, and heritage of the region through immersive experiences, live demonstrations, and expert insights.

What to Expect:

Join us at the site of Ad Gefrin, Yeavering, from 10am to 4pm each day for:

Acle Re-enactments & Encampment (Friday 31st and Saturday 1st)
Experience the sights, sounds, and stories of Anglo-Saxon life as historical re-enactors bring Gefrin’s past to life with live demonstrations, crafts, and a working encampment.

Ad Gefrin Museum On The Road (Friday 31st and Saturday 1st)
Meet Ad Gefrin’s Museum Director, Chris Ferguson, and Paula, Museum Guide as they bring key archaeological finds from the site back to Yeavering. View artefacts, hear the stories behind them, and ask your burning questions.

Portable Antiquities Scheme (Friday 31st)
Have you found something interesting while walking, gardening, or metal detecting? Bring it along and report your finds to the Portable Antiquities Scheme team on site.

Talks at Yeavering (Friday 31st and Saturday 1st)
Hear from leading experts, from Durham University and The Gefrin Trust, as they share the significance of Yeavering and its place in the story of early medieval Britain.

Geophysical survey demonstrations (Friday 31st)
Try your hand at different kinds of geoarchaeological prospection guided by experts.

*New this year*

Evening Lumiere (Friday 31st - 21:00 - 23:00 pm)

Join us in the evening for a light show that brings the ancient palace and its story to life in a collaboration between The Gefrin Trust and Walk the Plank.

Children under 16 are free

Dogs are welcome but must be on a lead at all times