On Saturday 25th July The Natur! Festival of Archaeology event held in Bodmin provided a full day of informative and engaging activity. The programme brought together speakers, demonstrators, and community contributors to explore the relationship between archaeology, landscape, and local heritage.
The morning history walk, led by Cornwall National Landscape, offered participants an opportunity to learn more about Bodmin’s historic environment. Throughout the afternoon, talks covered a wide range of subjects including moorland archaeology, Viking‑age Cornwall, Bodmin Priory, mining heritage, and current research projects. Poetry contributions and traditional music added a community dimension that was well received.
Flint‑knapping demonstrations attracted particular interest, giving visitors direct insight into prehistoric craft techniques.
There were a wide range of displays and stalls including Bodmin Keep, Bodmin Museum, Lore & Piece, Kresen Kernow, Agan Tavas, Cornwall Archaeological Society, Piskie Trap, Kowethas an Yeth Kernewek, Cornwall National Landscapes, Cornish Mining World Heritage Sites and much more. The displays included those from Newquay OCS, Bodmin OCS, and Helston OCS.
The event was a collaboration between the University of Exeter’s Institute of Cornish Studies, Lore & Piece, and the Federation.
The Federation is grateful to all speakers, volunteers, and attendees for their involvement. The day demonstrated continued public interest in Cornwall’s cultural heritage and the value of providing accessible opportunities for learning and participation.