UK’s Treasure Boom: Where to Hunt for Historic Finds in 2024

The United Kingdom, a magnet for globetrotters, is buzzing with more than just tourists—it’s a treasure hunter’s paradise! In 2024, the British government reported a 12% surge in treasure finds, with 1,363 discoveries of ancient artifacts that whisper tales of history. These aren’t just shiny trinkets; we’re talking objects over 200 years old, brimming with historical and cultural significance.

From the sun-kissed beaches of Devon and Dorset to the rolling hills of Norfolk and Suffolk, over 40 finds were unearthed in each of these regions. Yorkshire and Shropshire also joined the treasure party, proving that history is buried just about everywhere in the UK. Norfolk alone struck gold—figuratively and maybe literally—with a whopping 132 finds, making it the hotspot for metal detectorists dreaming of their next big score.

The rise in finds, up from 1,219 in 2023, coincides with a post-COVID boom in metal-detecting enthusiasm. The British coroners’ report, which sounds grim but doubles as a treasure log, noted that 98% of the 500 inquests concluded in 2024 confirmed treasure status. That’s a lot of history unearthed! But before you pack your metal detector, note that visiting the UK now comes with a small catch: an Electronic Travel Authorization fee, recently bumped to about $18.

So, why the treasure boom? It’s a mix of geography, history, and folks itching to explore after years indoors. Whether you’re strolling Devon’s coast or Yorkshire’s fields, the UK’s soil is practically begging to share its secrets. Grab your gear, respect the land, and who knows—you might just walk face-to-face with history.