Archaeology

People have lived in Kent for over 400,000 years and even today the evidence of their activities still surround us.

Their homes and settlements, farms, places of work, business and worship, and the means by which they defended themselves, still lie scattered in the towns and countryside of Kent.

The county Historic Environment Record currently records over 42,000 archaeological sites, artefacts and historic buildings.

Although many of these sites are highly visible, such as the churches, cathedrals, castles and buildings that are part of our everyday lives, much of the heritage of Kent now lies buried beneath the ground.

Kent County Council seeks to protect the best of our past by helping local authorities draw up development plans and strategies that conserve Kent's heritage and by advising them on planning applications.

Where appropriate, archaeological sites are protected within the planning process. Where this is not appropriate sites are recorded by archaeologists prior to any development. Find out more about how we carry out this work.

You can view the Historic Environment Record online. This online version is not suitable for legal, planning or professional work; please contact the Historic Environment Officer to make an enquiry.

You can also view archaeological reports and aerial photographs at the council offices. Please make an appointment to visit the offices in Maidstone.