Unearthed

‘Unearthed’ combines objects from our archaeology and natural science collections spanning millions of years of history. Together, they explore the story of life in Derbyshire – how people have adapted to make this place their home, and how they have shaped the natural world to meet their needs. Look out for interactive replica objects throughout the gallery and enjoy the fascinating range of specimens and newly featured animals.

What can I see?

Explore some of the most exciting and oldest objects in the museums’ collection, including many objects never displayed before. Highlights include Bronze Age finds recovered from the wetlands of the River Trent, Ice Age material from Creswell Crags, finds from Roman Derby, and internationally significant Viking material from Repton.

What can I do?

Touch a replica Bronze Age spearhead, examine enlarged 3D scans of ancient coins, and feel a replica mammoth tooth. For the first time ever you can sit in a replica section of our Bronze Age logboat, and imagine paddling down the River Trent as the boat’s passengers may have done many years ago… And don’t forget to meet our friendly badger and give him a gentle stroke!

Thank you to The National Lottery Heritage Fund, whose support made this project possible.

Portable Antiquities Scheme

Derby Museums hosts the Find Liaison Service for Derbyshire, Nottinghamshire, Leicestershire and Rutland as part of the British Museum’s Portable Antiquities Scheme. You can find out more about this here.