The Ancient Technology Centre (ATC) in Dorset: 2025 Visitor Guide

The Ancient Technology Centre (ATC), located in Cranborne, Dorset, is a renowned educational facility dedicated to experimental archaeology and historical craftsmanship. Established in the 1980s, the ATC brings ancient history to life through interactive workshops, reconstructed buildings, and public events that immerse visitors in historical engineering, construction, and daily life practices.

This guide provides comprehensive, up-to-date information on historical reconstructions, workshops, events, ticket prices, and essential visitor details for 2025. 

Reconstructed Buildings: A Walk Through Time

The ATC features six full-scale reconstructed buildings, each based on extensive archaeological research and historical evidence. These structures allow visitors to experience ancient craftsmanship and engineering firsthand.

• Earthouse
  Inspired by excavations on the Isle of Man, this structure provides insights into ancient communal living spaces, constructed using earth and timber techniques.

• Viking Longhouse
  Modeled after Scandinavian Viking settlements, this full-scale longhouse is used for overnight school stays and historical reenactments, reflecting Viking domestic and social life.

• Neolithic Log Cabin
  Built using authentic Neolithic woodworking techniques, this cabin represents early farming communities and their use of natural materials.

• Iron Age Roundhouse
  Based on Iron Age settlements found in Britain, this circular dwelling showcases fire-making, cooking, and ancient tool-making demonstrations.

• Roman Forge
  A reconstruction of Roman-era metal workshops, featuring demonstrations of smelting, blacksmithing, and Roman engineering.

• Saxon Workshop
  Built using traditional Anglo-Saxon construction methods, this structure highlights woodworking, metalwork, and domestic craftsmanship from Saxon England.

Each building is constructed based on archaeological research from institutions such as The British Museum and The University of York’s Department of Archaeology.

Workshops and Courses

The ATC, in collaboration with Castle Hill Heritage Skills CIC, offers hands-on workshops designed to teach ancient skills through practical experiences. Led by expert archaeologists, historians, and craftspeople, these courses provide a unique learning opportunity.

Upcoming Workshops in 2025:

• Prehistoric Skills Weekend (10th & 11th May 2025)

  • Activities: Flint knapping, pigment extraction, pottery making, and metal casting
  • Tutors: Sarah Day, Caroline Nicolay, Emma Harrison, Fergus Milton
  • Fee: £215.00 (overnight stay in Viking Longhouse optional)

• Heritage Textile Skills Weekend (7th & 8th June 2025)

  • Activities: Twining, loom weaving, natural dyeing, and Stone Age sewing kits
  • Tutors: Sally Pointer, Vanessa Bunton, Jalea Ward, Jenny Heath
  • Fee: £215.00

• Deer Butchery and Using the Whole Animal (11th & 12th October 2025)

  • Activities: Traditional butchery, tanning, tool-making, and cooking
  • Tutors: Sarah Day & Team
  • Fee: £215.00

Book your spot on the official ATC website.

Public Events and Open Weekends

The ATC organizes annual public events that allow visitors to explore ancient skills, witness live demonstrations, and engage with historical experts.

Highlighted Events for 2025:

• Prehistory Weekend (5th & 6th April 2025)

  • Experience stone tool-making, ancient cooking, and primitive fire-starting techniques.

• Dark Ages Open Weekend (26th & 27th July 2025)

  • Featuring Viking and Saxon reenactments, live storytelling, and battle demonstrations.

• Apple Weekend (27th & 28th September 2025)

  • A celebration of traditional apple harvesting, cider-making, and fruit preservation techniques.

Event Timings: 10 AM - 4 PM
Tickets: £10 (Adults), £5 (Children under 16), Under 4s FREE
Tickets available at the gate (cash or card), no pre-booking required.

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Educational Programs and School Visits

The ATC offers specialized historical programs designed for schools, colleges, and educational groups. These programs align with the National Curriculum and provide hands-on learning experiences.

• Residential Experiences

  • Overnight stays in the Viking Longhouse
  • Engaging historical activities & storytelling sessions

• Day Visits

  • Bespoke workshops tailored to history curriculums
  • Live demonstrations on prehistoric and medieval craftsmanship

Ticket Prices & Booking Information

General Admission:

• Adults: £8.00
• Children (under 16): £5.00
• Family Ticket (2 Adults + 2 Children): £22.00
• Seniors (65+): £6.00
• Under 5s: FREE

Workshops:

• Half-Day Workshop: £25.00
• Full-Day Workshop: £45.00
• Weekend Workshops: £90.00 (includes materials & refreshments)

Special Events:

• Prices vary – check event booking page for details.

Tickets can be purchased online or at the entrance (subject to availability).

Visitor Information

Location: Damerham Road, Cranborne, Dorset, BH21 5RP
Contact: 01725 517618 | Email: atc@dorsetcouncil.gov.uk
Opening Hours: Open on select weekends and for scheduled events.
Parking: Free on-site parking
Accessibility: Wheelchair-friendly paths available, contact in advance for assistance
Amenities: Refreshments (tea, cake, BBQ) available at events (cash-only food stalls)
Pet Policy: Assistance dogs only

Conclusion

The Ancient Technology Centre (ATC) is a must-visit destination for history lovers, students, and families. Whether you're learning ancient skills, witnessing live reenactments, or participating in hands-on workshops, the ATC provides a truly immersive journey into the past.

Plan your visit today! Book your tickets & explore history at ancienttechnologycentre.com.

FAQs

1. Is the ATC suitable for children?

Yes! Many workshops and events include interactive activities for young visitors.

2. Can I stay overnight at the ATC?

Yes! Overnight stays are available for certain workshops & school groups.

3. Can I volunteer at the ATC?

Yes! Volunteers assist with historical demonstrations & site maintenance.

4. How do I stay updated on events?

Follow ATC's Facebook  pages for updates.

Note: All event details are accurate as of March 2025. Visitors are encouraged to check the official Ancient Technology Centre website for the latest updates before planning their visit.