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
SPECIAL EVENTS 2022
New Publication Launch!
Archaeology on the front line - 70 years of rescue 1952 - 2022 across Kent and S.E. London.
Sunday 15th May, 2022. 11.00--4.00pm at Crofton Roman Villa, Orpington
Friends and public admitted free, but donations welcome.
Roman Tombs at Keston, Westerham Road Open Day
Join us for a one day only opportunity to tour the Keston Roman Tombs!
Sunday 22nd May, 2022 11.00 - 4.00 pm
No vehicular entry - by foot only from Keston Fish Ponds Car Park, Bromley, Keston BR2 6AT and follow signs
Friends and public admitted free, but donations welcome
NOTE: The Tombs are within private grounds and can only be visited on rare special open days
The tombs are the remains of Roman mausolea dating from the 3rd century AD and formed part of a larger extensive Roman cemetery relating to the close-by Roman Villa (not accessible). The tombs were first discovered in the 19th Century but extensive excavations were carried out by the Bromley and West Kent Archaeological Group and the Kent Archaeological Rescue Unit between 1967 and 1992.
Crofton Roman Villa, Orpington Notices
Crofton Roman Villa will re-open in the 1st week of April until October, 2022
Tuesdays and Wednesdays only 10.00 am - 4.00 pm
Plus the first Sunday of each month 2.00 pm - 4.30 pm
Admission £2 adults, £1 concessions
COVID-19 GUIDELINES
In order to ensure your safety and the safety of our volunteers, we ask that you please:
- Wait 2 metres apart at the entry door until advised to enter
- Sanitise hands and wear a face covering where possible
- Stay 2m. apart from others at all times once inside
- Circulate in one way only, with no returning
- Avoid touching exhibits, graphics, rails or furniture
- Exit by the top door only
Our team apologies for these essential measures, rightly required by central and local Government. Thank you for your cooperation.
Roman Painted House, Dover Notices
Please note that the Roman Painted House, Dover is now closed for the winter season.
Re-opening times for Spring 2022 to be confirmed.
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.
Registered Charity Number: 273581