In collaboration with Durham University, The Gefrin Trust & 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 special day 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:
Acle Re-enactments & Encampment
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
Meet Ad Gefrin’s Museum Director, Chris Ferguson, and team 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
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
Hear from leading experts, including Professor Sarah Semple (Durham University) and Roger Miket (The Gefrin Trust), as they share the significance of Yeavering and its place in the story of early medieval Britain.
No booking required – just come along and enjoy the day.
This event is part of a special Lammas weekend celebration, honouring the ancient festival of first harvest. Taking place across 1st–3rd August at Ad Gefrin and the historic royal site of Yeavering, the weekend features The Gaderung – a modern-day harvest festival – alongside immersive re-enactments, hands-on heritage, feasts, food, expert talks, and storytelling. Together, these events celebrate the land, people, and enduring traditions of Anglo-Saxon Northumbria.
You may also like the following events from Ad Gefrin:
- This Wednesday, 9th July, 10:00 am, Darach Furniture Exhibition in Wooler
- Next month, 2nd August, 10:00 am, Anglo-Saxon Northumbria with Acle in Wooler
- Next month, 3rd August, 10:00 am, ‘The Gaderung’ - Gather, Feast, Celebrate in Wooler
Also check out other
Festivals in Wooler.
