Discover hidden Island treasures at the Festival of Archaeology

Residents and visitors are invited to step back in time and explore the rich heritage of the Isle of Wight at a special event hosted by the Museum of Island History in Newport’s Guildhall.

As part of the national Festival of Archaeology, the museum will open its doors free of charge from 10am to 1pm on Saturday, 19 July.

A highlight of the event is a new display featuring artefacts unearthed by The Vectis Searchers, the Island’s long-standing metal detecting club, which celebrates its 40th anniversary this year.

These fascinating finds — often held in private collections — offer a rare glimpse into the Island’s past, with objects discovered in fields and gardens across the community.

Visitors are encouraged to bring along their own archaeological discoveries for expert identification by the Isle of Wight’s finds liaison officer.

There will also be a chance to learn more about the Portable Antiquities Scheme, a British Museum initiative that records archaeological finds made by the public.

“This is a wonderful opportunity for residents to get hands-on and discover more about our special Island history,” said a spokesperson for the Isle of Wight Heritage Service.

“With handling artefacts to explore and a free museum trail for families, it’s a perfect day out for all ages.”

The Festival of Archaeology, organised by the Council for British Archaeology, runs from 19 July to 3 August and features hundreds of events across the UK, both in-person and online.

The Newport event is part of this nationwide celebration of heritage and discovery.

The Museum of Island History is located at the Guildhall, High Street, Newport, PO30 1TY, and is normally open Tuesdays and Thursdays from 10am to 1pm.