DIG: An Archaeological Adventure

DIG: An Archaeological Adventure is an educational resource in York, England. Operated by York Archaeology, the centre is housed in the former St Saviour's Church, a 15th-century building repurposed in the 1990s as an archaeological education centre. DIG offers an immersive learning environment where visitors engage in simulated excavations and artefact analysis across four historical periods: Roman, Viking, medieval and Victorian. Using excavation tools, participants explore replica and authentic artefacts, supported by multimedia displays that explain archaeological methods and historical contexts. The site lies within a deeply stratified urban area of York, where well-preserved, waterlogged deposits have provided ideal conditions for preserving organic remains. These conditions have made the city centre a significant focus of urban archaeology in the UK. Excavations in the 20th century revealed layers of human activity, forming the foundation for both research and public engagement in archaeology. DIG is fully accessible and incorporates multi-sensory elements and communication aids to support visitors with diverse needs. The centre provides family-friendly and educational resources and encourages repeat visits through an annual pass system. As part of York Archaeology's public archaeology programme, DIG forms a cultural network alongside other heritage sites such as the JORVIK Viking Centre and Barley Hall.