ABOUT US

Founded in 1970 the Kent Archaeological Rescue Unit has excavated 400 sites throughout Kent. The unit continues to excavate, record, publish and protect the rich history of Kent to this day. Two of those archaeological sites are open to the public and are enjoyed by thousands of visitors each year. Both sites are run by our fantastic teams of knowledgable volunteers and we are always happy to add to those teams.

The exposed ruins of the Crofton Roman Villa in Orpington is open to general visitors and for educational puroposes with local schools. Please visit our Crofton Roman Villa page to find out more about what we offer and to download our information for teachers leaflet.

The Roman Painted House in Dover is another site run by the Kent Archaeological Rescue Unit, which consists of extremely well preserved Roman house and portrays a facinating insight of Roman Dover. Please visit our Roman Painted House page for further information.

Volunteers Wanted!

Please Contact Us to Enquire

PUBLICATIONS

Dr. Philp’s new book, ‘Archaeology on the front line - 70 years of rescue 1952 - 2022 across Kent and S.E. London’ is out now!

A fascinating record of his 70 year career, the book covers sites across Kent and S.E. London.

Visit our publications page to find out how to purchase your copy!

All proceeds go towards further rescue work in Kent.

These booklets are also available to purchase for £6.00.

Excavations in the Ancient Town of Sandwich (Part 1)
Excavations in the Ancient Town of Sandwich (Part 2)
Rescue Excavations in West Kent
The Discovery of a Roman Settlement in the Centre of Gravesend, Kent
Prehistoric Sites on the Kent M25 Motorway

Kent Archaeological Review

Although the Council for Kentish Archaeology (CKA) has ceased to function the Kent Unit holds most of the back numbers of the Kent Archaeological Review and these can be purchased from KARU (at £1 a copy, plus postage), presently only by post, but normally also from the Roman House, Dover.

Notices and Upcoming Events

Look Out for Special Events for 2023!

Crofton Roman Villa, Orpington Notices

Crofton Roman Villa will re-open in the 1st week of April until October, 2023

Tuesdays and Wednesdays only 10.00 am - 3.00 pm

Plus the first Sunday of each month 2.00 pm - 4.00 pm

Admission £2 adults, £1 concessions

COVID-19 GUIDELINES

Please note that we have relaxed the restrictions and mask wearing policy as per the latest Government rules.

We look forward to welcoming you back to the Crofton Roman Villa and Roman Painted House!

Roman Painted House, Dover Notices

Please note that the Roman Painted House, Dover wil remain closed for repairs until 2024.

Please check back with the website for updates.

Why not check out our Blog?

The KARU blog consists of both old and new articles, some taken from our Kent Archaeological Review journal, which were written by various contributors and some regarding current archaeological projects and issues.

Kent Archaeological Review

Although the CKA has ceased to function the Kent Unit holds most of the back numbers of the Kent Archaeological Review and these can be purchased from KARU (at £1 a copy, plus postage), presently only by post, but normally also from the Roman House at Dover.