Festival of Archaeology 2026

Posted on 3rd April 2026 by Ruiha Smalley

On behalf of the Council for British Archaeology’s (CBA) Festival of Archaeology 2026 the group will be running a two day community excavation.

Location: Shorne Woods Country Park (DA12 3HX).

Dates: Saturday and Sunday 18th and 19th July.

Time: 10.30am to 3.00pm both days. No need to book, just turn up on the day.

Cost: This activity is free but please note there is a car parking charge at the venue.

Info: No experience needed, all welcome. We will provide all the necessary tools. Please wear appropriate clothing (you will get dirty) and stout shoes.

Please note under 16’s must be accompanied by a parent/guardian.

To find the site follow the SWAG arrows from outside the café/shop.

If you require any further information please email swagkent2023@gmail.com

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Lower Thames Crossing archaeology and community engagement survey

Posted on 21st March 2026 by Ruiha Smalley

The Lower Thames Crossing are after more responses to their archaeology and community engagement survey. SWAG and I have submitted responses, but if you’d like to reply as an individual please look at: Lower Thames Crossing Roads South Public Archaeology and Community Engagement Survey 

The more responses the better!

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Updates

Posted on 13th March 2026 by Ruiha Smalley

This month we are back in the park, focusing on the archaeology along the edge of the A2, which may be affected by future infrastructure works. News from site on Friday was that we had a stretch of narrow gauge railway line in-situ, so we will continue uncover it and see how it links in with the other sections we have previously recorded…there’s clearly more to do in this area!

Later in the year we will return to the brick kiln site as well, but the A2 area is our current priority.

Some events for this year’s Festival of Archaeology have been announced and Andrew will be giving a lecture at Maidstone Museum. It’s titled “Looking for old Mote House – Maidstone’s hidden history”. Date – Thursday 6th August from 7pm to 8.30 pm. The cost is £15 per person and booking is essential as places are limited. Please click here for further details on how to book.

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SWAG is 20

Posted on 10th February 2026 by Ruiha Smalley

Shorne Woods Archaeology Group has been active for 20 years! Community archaeology really is alive and thriving in Kent. This is a shout out to everyone involved with SWAG over the past 20 years, be it excavating, researching, finds analysis or in any other capacity.

We’re having a party on Saturday 11th July at Shorne Country Park. Save the date and come and join us. More details to follow nearer the time. 

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AGM news from 2025

Posted on 26th December 2025 by Ruiha Smalley

Please click here for yearly report presented at the SWAG AGM for 2025.

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