Excavation archives

The Grosvenor Museum Archaeologists can advise on the archives – written and drawn records, photographs, artefacts and environmental samples – from excavations carried out since 1963, primarily in the centre of Chester.

Reference Collections

We also hold multi-period collections of pottery, ceramic building materials and animal bone, as well as a reference collection of archaeological and modern plant material. For consultation of our reference collections in connection with commercially funded projects we charge a basic access fee of £30 per half day plus an optional consultancy fee of £30 per hour.  Reference for non-commercial purpose is free.

Access to the Excavation Archives

The size and quality of these collections, together with the historical importance of Chester itself, make them of regional significance. We welcome research on them by students, particularly at post-graduate level. Unfortunately our records are not yet computerised and we cannot therefore print out customised listings of objects on request, but students are welcome to make personal visits to consult original records and look at the collections. For more details on particular categories of material email: archaeology@cheshirewestandchester.gov.uk

Photographs and drawings may be reproduced subject to acknowledgement of copyright and payment of the appropriate fee.