Archaeology
Collections We have an extensive archaeology collection looked after by our wonderful resident archaeologist James Sainsbury. We have a regular programme of archaeology walks and lectures so if you would like to learn more about the collection and handle some of the objects keep an eye out for these in the What’s On section and on our social media!
Highdown Goblet
An insight into the collection
The real strength of the collections can be seen in our internationally important artefacts from the Neolithic flint mines at Blackpatch, Cissbury Ring, Church Hill, and Harrow Hill, alongside a large number of Bronze Age metal hoards.
We also have unique finds from Roman religious sites such as Chanctonbury Ring and funerary remains from the local area. The 5th-century Patching Hoard of gold and silver coins is unique in Britain and crowns our extensive assemblage of Roman coin hoards from across West Sussex.
The museum contains a large number of human remains, jewellery, weaponry and glassware from the nationally significant early Anglo-Saxon cemetery at Highdown Hill.
We actively encourage research into our archaeological collections and have worked closely with academic institutions, local interest groups and societies in the recent past to continue building our understanding of Worthing’s fascinating history.
