New exhibition reveals 10,000 years of prehistoric life in the Trent Valley

A new exhibition at the University of Nottingham Museum has opened, offering a comprehensive look at 10,000 years of prehistoric life in the Trent Valley. The exhibition, titled Prehistoric Lives in the Trent Valley, began on Friday, July 24, 2026, and will remain on display until Sunday, January 10, 2027. It features a wide array of archaeological findings that provide insight into how early human communities interacted with and adapted to the changing environment of the Trent River system. The exhibition draws upon extensive research conducted over many years, integrating both archaeological and paleoenvironmental data. This interdisciplinary approach allows researchers to reconstruct the lives of ancient inhabitants and their relationship with the landscape. Artifacts such as tools, pottery fragments, and animal remains are displayed alongside environmental samples including soil, pollen, and sediment cores. These materials help paint a vivid picture of the region’s past, revealing how human activity influenced and was influenced by the natural world. Curated by three leading experts in archaeology and related fields, the exhibition reflects a collaborative effort spanning multiple institutions. Dr. David Knight, an honorary research fellow in the Department of Classics and Archaeology, serves as one of the lead curators. Alongside him are Dr. Kristina Krawiec, who heads York Archaeology’s geoarchaeology division, and Dr. Steve Malone, a senior researcher at York Archaeology. Their combined expertise ensures that the exhibition presents a nuanced and accurate portrayal of the Trent Valley’s prehistoric history. The research team has spent decades investigating the Trent Valley, one of Britain’s most significant river systems. By examining the interplay between human societies and the natural environment, they aim to deepen public understanding of the area’s rich cultural and ecological heritage. The exhibition emphasizes the importance of preserving such sites, ensuring that the historical narratives embedded in the land continue to inform future generations. Visitors to the exhibition will have the opportunity to engage directly with the material culture of the past. A special event during the opening weekend, hosted in partnership with York Archaeology, offers hands-on activities such as handling real artifacts, using photogrammetry techniques to create digital models, and exploring 3D-printed replicas of key items. These interactive elements enhance the educational value of the exhibit and make the distant past more tangible. The University of Nottingham Museum, located at Lakeside Arts, is open to the public from Thursday to Sunday, with operating hours from noon to 4 p.m. Admission to the exhibition is free, making it accessible to a broad audience. The museum’s Keeper, Dr. Clare Pickersgill, expressed her enthusiasm for the project, highlighting the significance of sharing these findings with the community. She also noted that the exhibition aligns with the broader goals of the national Festival of Archaeology, which celebrates public engagement with the field. In addition to the main exhibition, the museum plans to host further events throughout the year, allowing continued dialogue between scholars and the public. These initiatives underscore the commitment to making archaeology relevant and engaging for all ages. As the exhibition runs through early 2027, it promises to offer a valuable resource for anyone interested in the deep history of the Trent Valley.