Archaeological Finds and Metal Detecting

Finds reporting

We invite members of the public to contact us when they make archaeological discoveries, to increase everyone’s knowledge of Gloucestershire’s past.

Our Finds Liaison Officer will assess any finds and record suitable artefacts on the Portable Antiquities Scheme (PAS) database, following their recording guidance. Further advice for finders can be found here.

If you would like us to record your find, please contact our Finds Liaison Officer Kurt Adams on: 0117 9222613 or kurt.adams@bristol.gov.uk

Ownership of finds

Before searching for archaeological finds, you must have the permission of the landowner. All artefacts belong to the landowner and all land is owned, including footpaths and common land. Removing finds without landowner permission may be treated as theft. If you are aware of the illegal removal of archaeological finds or other heritage crime, please report this to the police.

Metal detecting

Metal detection is not allowed on Gloucestershire County Council owned land.

We recommend all metal detecting is undertaken in accordance with the PAS Code of Practice.

Treasure

Some of the objects that are brought in to us fall within the Treasure Act 1996.

Objects which may qualify as treasure must be reported to the Finds Liaison Officer (see above) who will make a report to the Coroner on the finder’s behalf.