Archaeological Digs in Scotland | 2026 Edition
Want to volunteer or visit an excavation in 2026? We’re rounding up the best free (or low-cost) archaeology opportunities from across the country that are open to everyone – no experience required!
Cammo Estate, Edinburgh – Volunteering
When: Every Monday
Uncover an area packed full of archaeology and hidden stories. Find out more…
Addie’s Brae, Dumfries & Galloway – VOLUNTEERING
When: 20 April to 1 May (NOT 26 April)
Help excavate this prehistoric scooped settlement. Find out more…
Fairnlee, Scottish Borders – VOLUNTEERING
When: 11 May to 19 May (NOT 17 May)
Uncover a medieval moated enclosure identified through geophysics. Find out more…
Methil Mill, Fife – OPEN DAY
When: 23 May
Explore an active archaeological site and learn about the fascinating discoveries uncovered so far. Find out more…
The Cairns, Orkney – SITE VISIT
When: 8 June to 17 July (weekdays)
Head to this South Ronaldsay excavation which has revealed a large Iron Age broch (c100BC-AD200) and structures dating from the Iron Age through to the Norse period. Find out more…
Bannockburn House, Stirling– VOLUNTEERING
When: 20 to 28 June
Join Stirling Field & Archaeological Society’s community excavation at historic Bannockburn House. Find out more…
Skaill Farm, Orkney – SITE VISIT
When: 6 to 24 July (weekdays)
Visit the site of this multi-period settlement site at Skaill, Rousay. Find out more…
Ness of Brodgar, Orkney – SITE TOURS
When: 7 to 30 July (weekdays)
Watch as the team investigates a series of anomalies identified through ground-penetrating radar. Find out more…
Bannockburn House, Stirling– VOLUNTEERING
When: 18 to 26 July
Join Stirling Field & Archaeological Society’s community excavation at historic Bannockburn House. Find out more…
Spurness, Orkney – SITE VISIT
When: 19 July to 14 August (weekdays)
Visit a site where an Early Bronze Age structure with ‘double house’ architecture has been uncovered, as well as other interesting elements. Find out more…
This list will be updated throughout the year. In the meantime, why not sign up to the Dig It! Digest to get Scottish archaeology stories, events and updates delivered straight to your inbox once a month?
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.
Image: Excavation at Sgòr an Eòin at the National Trust for Scotland’s Mar Lodge Estate in the Cairngorms (Image Copyright: Shahbaz Majeed 2023)
