Experimental reconstruction and experiential archaeology are often used to engage public interest in our past or as an educational medium, most notably through reconstruction or living history role-play.
Not only does experiential archaeology open up the past, providing an insight into the Life-ways of our ancestors, it is also a most effective method of learning.
Participants who engage in our activities or workshops discover for themselves how prehistoric hunter-gatherers procured and processed a range of materials, as well as learning and appreciating the skills of our ancestors.
We work mostly with materials and technologies that we can harvest and manufacture ourselves. For example, natural fibres for cord or containers, stone tools, food procurement and processing.
Many of our experiments and activities are field based; we believe that working in this way provides us with insights that a lab environment does not.
Our team blends academic expertise with deep practical knowledge of natural environments and traditional crafts. This approach allows us to bring the past to life in an engaging, accessible, and scientifically grounded way for visitors, students, and researchers alike.
To book a workshop, or for more information, please contact Peter on peter@mesolithic.org.uk.
Primitive skills involve attaining a knowledge of the environment and how to use the raw resources found within it. These skills are wide ranging comprising bushcraft, fire craft, resource procurement, bone and antler work, stone tools, hunting and fishing gear, and watercraft. They also include making cord, basketry, beads, containers, and pottery.
By using these ancient skills together with experimental archaeology methods, we can increase our understanding of how our ancestors lived.
These techniques comprise a ranging and well-rounded skill set including bushcraft which involve navigation and tracking, resource and food procurement as well as crafts. Crafts are possibly one of the most practised of primitive skills and can include making cordage, clothes, various hand tools, fishing traps and hunting tools.
To book a workshop, or for more information, please contact Peter on peter@mesolithic.org.uk.
Through carefully reconstructed processes and authentic materials, our expert practitioners deliver bespoke demonstrations revealing the ingenuity behind prehistoric technologies. These hands on, visually rich sessions help audiences of all ages gain a clearer understanding of ancient skills and the resourcefulness of early hunter gatherer societies.
Our sessions offer:
- Experiential learning that deepens archaeological understanding and connects directly to curriculum themes
- Public engagement opportunities, enabling audiences to explore ancient technologies through meaningful interaction
- A scientifically grounded approach, blending archaeology, ethnography, and traditional craft knowledge
Whether you are hosting an educational event, museum day, or festival, our demonstrations immerse participants in the world of our ancestors. For more information, please contact Peter on peter@mesolithic.org.uk.
