Understanding the lives of Britain’s earliest humans

How did the earliest humans in Britain behave? What technologies did they use? Did they wear clothing? The excavation of one of Britain’s earliest archaeological sites, in Canterbury (Kent), is slowly answering these questions, giving us a better understanding of who the very earliest migrants to Britain were. Archaeological discoveries made at the site by researchers confirm the presence of early humans in southern Britain between 560,000 and 620,000 years ago. Plans are now under way to engage with local schools, which will enable small groups of students to work alongside archaeologists to uncover artefacts and engage with our prehistoric past.

Added 14 November 2022; updated 2 May 2023.