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Nights at the Museum: The Big Dig

Calypso Finch, from Archaeology Scotland, goes behind the scenes of The Big Dig — a remarkable community excavation at the historic Newbattle Abbey College in Edinburgh.

Over just eight days, 130+ people of all ages came together and uncovered fascinating archaeology while searching for evidence of a WWII practice trench.

Come and hear first-hand about the discoveries, the stories, and why archaeology belongs to everyone. From young carers to local families and students, this dig brought communities together in an extraordinary way.

Tickets priced £8.00 (or £6.00 for Friends of the Museum) include wine and nibbles and can be bought from Dalkeith Museum during opening hours – Tuesday to Thursday and Saturday from 10:30 am to 3:30 pm.

Please note that this event is not being coordinated by Dig It!. While Dig It! takes every opportunity to ensure that this information is accurate, we advise that you contact the event organiser before attending the event to avoid disappointment. As “39% of transport emissions come from cars” according to Net Zero Nation, Dig It! also encourages you to walk, wheel, cycle or use public transport to arrive at this event if possible.

Image: © Archaeology Scotland

Accessibility Information

The museum is fully wheelchair accessible.

For further accessibility information, please phone 0131 663 4683 or email info@dalkeithmuseum.co.uk

Dalkeith Museum, 61 St Andrew St, Dalkeith EH22 1BP

Wednesday 22 July 2026 @ 7:00pm

Price £8

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A group of people in high-vis vests digging in a shallow archaeological trench in the sun

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