Archaeology in Worcester

Worcester is one of England's major historic cities, and it is important that its historic significance is conserved and enhanced.

Worcester City Council's Archaeology Service provides advice on the archaeological implications of development and other proposals within the city boundaries.

The Archaeology pages give information on this work and on the management of the city's historic environment, historic landscapes and townscape, and archaeology. Information on the history and development of Worcester is given in the Archaeology, history & heritage pages.

Promoting Archaeological Research In Worcester

An outline resource assessment and research framework for the archaeology of Worcester.

As part of the Worcester Urban Archaeological Strategy Project, Worcester City Council has published An outline resource assessment and research framework for the archaeology of Worcester. This is based on both new and old data collected for the City of Worcester Historic Environment Record, especially from recent archaeological investigations, as well as many years of painstaking historical research.

The report focuses on understanding the development, growth and character of the city of Worcester, its site and immediate hinterland from earliest times to the present day. It assesses what we know about Worcester’s past, and more specifically what we do not know, but expect to be able to find out from archaeological or related historical work. Over 150 research priorities are set out, some for specific periods, while others have a much wider scope, including themes like the development of industries (especially iron and ceramics) from Roman times onwards, continuity from the Roman to medieval periods, and the way that town planning through the ages has shaped the modern city.

The resource assessment and research framework is designed mainly to support archaeological work which happens as a result of development in the city. However it is the most up-to-date and comprehensive review of Worcester’s archaeology currently available and should be useful to anyone interested in the development of the city and the evidence of its past.

At the moment the document is not illustrated (apart from a couple of sample illustrations), but it is proposed to add photographs, drawings and maps in the future.

Comments and questions on the Outline resource assessment and research framework for the archaeology of Worcester can be sent to archaeology@worcester.gov.uk.