Norfolk and Norwich Archaeological Society
The County Archaeological Society for Norfolk since 1846
Welcome
Founded in 1846, Norfolk & Norwich Archaeological Society, or NNAS, is one of Britain’s oldest county archaeological societies. For the last 180 years we have promoted the exploration, understanding and conservation of Norfolk’s rich archaeological and historical heritage through research, publications, lectures, excursions and community engagement.
The society is a registered charity, membership is open to anyone with an interest in the subject and area; whether professionals archaeologists, historians and those working in the heritage sector, or amateur history and archaeology enthusiasts who would like to learn more. NNAS also supports archaeological research through grants and partnerships.
We have a dedicated library at Norfolk Record Office and Archive Centre, and host an annual winter lecture programme at Norwich Castle Museum, with regular summer excursions and visits for members, and host a yearly conference.
NNAS also publishes Norfolk Archaeology, our annual peer-reviewed journal; the longest continuously running periodical of its kind. We have also digitised the Journal in partnership with York’s Archaeological Data Services, giving free access to anyone, to historic volumes as far back as 1848.
We encourage community archaeology and public engagement with our county’s history, artefacts, and its ancient landscapes. NNAS also runs a biennial photography competition; The Plunkett Prize – aimed at encouraging photographers and creatives to engage with our historic landscape and environment. We also support, fund and organise Norwich YAC (Young Archaeologists’ Club), as a bridge between the historic, academic foundations of NNAS and the next generation of young history enthusiasts,
Aims
The NNAS exists to encourage interest in Norfolk’s rich heritage, and to work for its protection. We do this through a range of activities.
- supporting life-long learning of history and archaeology
- providing grants for academic and community-led archaeology and history projects
- advocating for better access, understanding and care of Norfolk’s historic archives, buildings, objects and sites
Become a member!
You will be joining a community of people who all want to learn more about Norfolk’s past.
Benefits:
- A programme of monthly lectures during the autumn and winter
- In the summer we organise excursions to a variety of sites in Norfolk and further afield
- Norfolk Archaeology, the leading academic journal for the archaeology and history of Norfolk, is published annually and sent free of charge to full members
- Newsletter, sent twice a year to all members, includes news of forthcoming events, lectures and talks, as well as articles on local and national heritage matters
- The Society’s Library is an invaluable resource for the history of the County
Join us!
Membership of the Society gives you full access to our events, publications and activities, and you will be helping us to fulfill our aims of studying, protecting and enjoying the archaeology of Norfolk.
News
Summer Programme Now Available!
The NNAS Summer Programme for 2026 is now available for booking - we have a range of visits and activities from later this month, until September, from free walking tours, to full day trips. Read...
Do you get our emails?
Did you know that as well as Norfolk Archaology, and the Spring and Autumn Newsletter, NNAS has a regular monthly email for members? If you don't receive those, you may not be on our list. For...
The View From Here: Plunkett Prize 2025
The inaugural NNAS Plunkett Prize photographic competition is now open! We are delighted to invite your entries on the re theme of "The view from here: Photographing our present and past for the...