50 Years of Discovery

Join us for a landmark celebration of the people, places, and discoveries that have shaped our understanding of archaeology and heritage in the East of England. This two-day conference, hosted by Norfolk County Council’s Environment Service, marks 50 years of recording, protecting, and managing Norfolk's archaeology and historic environment for our own and future generations.

Held at the University of East Anglia, the programme will feature talks by leading archaeologists, local researchers, and heritage professionals, exploring the past five decades of discovery — and what lies ahead. If you're unable to attend in person, there will also be an option to purchase tickets join the talks and discussion online.

Don't miss the exclusive Saturday evening drinks and canapés reception in Norwich Castle Museum, where you'll have the chance to mingle with speakers and delegates in one of the city’s most iconic historic venues. The evening will include an introduction to the newly renovated Castle Keep by Dr. Tim Pestell, offering a first look at the landmark’s remarkable transformation.

Info: The first day of the 50 Years of Discovery conference begins with registration and refreshments, offering the perfect opportunity to meet fellow delegates, visit sponsor stalls, and explore the range of heritage services promoted by Norfolk County Council.

Info: The conference will be officially opened by Wendy Brooks, Head of the Environment Service at Norfolk County Council, setting the stage for a weekend of reflection, discussion, and celebration.

Info: We are honoured to welcome Professor Carenza Lewis, University of Lincoln, as our keynote speaker. A familiar face from Time Team and a leading figure in community archaeology, Professor Lewis will share insights from her distinguished career in heritage and public engagement.

Info: The first of the day's three sessions opens with an introduction from Dr Alice Lyons, Norfolk County Council and the Managing Editor East Anglian Archaeology.

Info: The opening session will feature a roundtable discussion with individuals who have played pivotal roles in shaping archaeology and heritage in Norfolk over the past 50 years.

Info: A chance for audience members to ask questions of the speakers.

Info: Knot holes, sketches and letters: Under the lid of the Norman Cross Prisoner of War boxes

Info: A buffet lunch is included in your ticket. Our sponsor marketplace and posters will be open during lunch giving you time to network, engage with speakers and delegates, explore displays and stalls from our sponsors, and learn more offering support, resources, and information for those involved or interested in the region’s rich heritage.

Info: Our second session opens with an introduction from Dr Philip Hughes, Team Leader of Finds Identification and Recording at Norfolk County Council.

Info: Pottery production at Snettisham and how it advances our understanding of the area

Info: Everything old is new again: The vessel glass of the early medieval emporium of Ipswich - evidence for recycling and reuse

Info: A chance for audience members to ask questions of the speakers.

Info: Take the time to peruse our marketplace and posters with refreshments. Showcasing research, projects, and discoveries from across the region and an opportunity to visit sponsor stalls and explore the range of heritage services provided by Norfolk County Council.

Info: Our final session of the day is introduced by Sophie Tremlett, Senior Aerial Imagery Analyst at Norfolk County Council.

Info: Your chance to ask questions of the final session's speakers.

Info: Join us for a very special evening at the recently reopened Medieval Hall in the Keep of Norwich Castle, one of the region’s most iconic historic sites.

The evening includes canapés and refreshments in the spectacular surroundings of the Castle’s newly restored medieval space. The highlight of the evening will be a talk by Dr Tim Pestell, Curator of Archaeology at Norwich Castle Museum, providing unique insights into the Castle’s history, the recent redevelopment project, and the significance of the site to the region's heritage.

This relaxed and sociable evening is a perfect opportunity to reflect on the day's discussions, enjoy the surroundings, and make new connections in the heritage community.

Info: The second day of the conference continues our celebration of archaeology and heritage in the East of England, with a programme that looks towards the future. During registration you will have the opportunity to visit sponsor stalls and peruse posters.

Info: The opening session for day two will be introduced by Heather Hamilton, Team Leader of the Historic Environment Record at Norfolk County Council.

Info: Our fifth session will be introduced by John Percival, Senior Officer Archaeology at Norfolk County Council.

Info: Take the time to look round our marketplace and posters with refreshments. Showcasing research, projects, and discoveries from across the region. As well as the range of heritage services provided by Norfolk County Council alongside stalls from the conference sponsors.

Info: Your chance to ask the speakers questions.

Info: Our final session of the conference is introduced by Martin Horlock, Specialist Advice Manager at Norfolk County Council

Info: Your chance to ask questions of the speakers.

Info: Goodbye to Rome? Rethinking the "end" of the Roman period in Norfolk

Event Venue & Nearby Stays

The Enterprise Centre, University of East Anglia Research Park, University Drive, Norwich, United Kingdom