York’s Coppergate Dig, from 1976 to 1981, is probably the UK’s most significant archaeological exploration of Viking-age remains, and inspired the creation of JORVIK Viking Centre. Though digging may have ended in 1981, archaeologists have continued to make new discoveries ever since, and these discoveries will form the content of this year’s Richard Hall Symposium.
Named after the lead archaeologist on the Coppergate Dig, The Richard Hall Symposium takes place each year to explore different archaeological subjects, but this year would be particularly close to the late Richard Hall’s heart, looking at many of the different things we have learned since ground was broken at 16-22 Coppergate 50 years ago.
“Many people may assume that archaeology ends when trenches and pits are filled in, but really that is just the start of the story. What follows is an extensive programme of research and exploration, piecing together clues in a 1000 year old jigsaw to help us understand what life was like so many generations ago,” comments Gareth Henry, director of public engagement for York Archaeology. “As technology develops, even items that we have looked at dozens of times before can reveal new secrets and insights into the past, and that is exactly what has happened with the Coppergate Dig. We’re delighted to be bringing together many of the people who have worked on this project to share their stories and discoveries at the Richard Hall Symposium.
The full-day programme will feature talks by Ailsa Mainman, Andrew Woods, Lucy Moore, Gareth Perry, Chris Martin-Taylor, Jemima Cowey, Steve Allen, Luke Parker, Jane McComish, Graham Coates and Steve Ashby.
The Richard Hall Symposium runs on 18 October 2026 and takes place in the Tempest Anderson Hall at the Yorkshire Museum. The event runs from 9.00am to 5.00pm, with refreshments served throughout the day. Tickets cost just £20 and can be purchased here.
