This weekend as part of the Festival of British Archaeology we not only have Pirates on the Isle of Wight at Fort Victoria, but we can get our Hands on History in Newport and Discover Vectis at Brading Roman Villa.

History on the Isle of Wight is about to come alive for all, thanks to the Council for British Archaeology  who have listed over 700 events to celebrate the 21st Festival of British Archaeology this summer.

Archaeology is for everyone says: Time Team’s Tony Robinson

Famous for bringing archaeology to our tv screens with Time Team, Tony Robinson says the Festival of British Archaeology is worthy of support from everyone.

“With so many events taking place during the Festival now is the time for people to find out more about the history in their area.”

‘I’m really expecting lots of people to be bitten by the archaeology bug! And when that happens I feel a sense of triumph. I wholeheartedly support what this festival is trying to do. It’s the same ethos that governs Time Team – educating local communities that something they weren’t aware of can be wonderful and exciting.

Taking place on the Isle of Wight this weekend:

Pirate Island

Sat 30–Sun 31 July 10.00–17.00

Once again the ‘Wight Pirates’ take over Fort Victoria for an action-packed weekend!

Re-enactment display with over 100 pirates and militia educating the public on maritime life in the early 18th Century.

Entry is Free but donations are very welcome. Head west past Yarmouth and follow the skeleton.

Finds Identification Day: Hands-on History Newport Roman Villa.

Sat 30 July 11.00–15.00

Identification of finds, hands-on activities and fun for all the family at Newport Roman Villa

Frank Basford, Finds Liaison Officer for the Portable Antiquities Scheme will be on site to identify any archaeological finds. There will be family friendly activities including a ‘mini dig’ and archaeology inspired craft activities.

The BBC’s ‘Hands on History’ Campaign has provided free postcards, badges and worksheets which will be out to the first 100 visitors.

Entry to the event is just £1 per person and this includes admission to Newport Roman Villa for visitors.

Discovering Vectis at Brading Roman Villa

Sun 31st July 10.00-16.00

Finds identification with the Portable Antiquities Scheme – bring along your finds for examination.

Display from the Vectis Searchers Metal Detectors club. Roman Villa excavations and visitor centre open as usual.

Dr Mike Heyworth, Director of the CBA, said:

‘The Festival is the biggest UK-wide event focusing on archaeology and with around 2,000 active community archaeology groups across the country this is the perfect opportunity for everyone to delve deeper into the past and to learn why archaeology is relevant to today’s world.

‘We hope that by taking part people will be encouraged to explore the past further, whether by visiting museums, joining a local archaeology group or by reading more about their favourite period.