Fossil Hunting Adventure with Betteshanger Park
Difficulty
Duration
Fitness Level
Overview
Unearth 300-million-year-old fossils with expert guides at Betteshanger Park. Perfect for families and adventurers alike, this fossil hunting experience brings Earth's prehistoric past to life.
Fossil Hunting at Betteshanger
Age 5+ Hunt for real fossils!
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About This Adventure
Embark on the thrilling Fossil Expedition at Betteshanger! Discover the secrets of ancient fossils as you explore the quarry with expert guidance. Unearth your own 300+ million-year-old treasures and earn a junior doctorate in Palaeontology. This hands-on adventure promises unforgettable memories for budding paleontologists and their adult companions!
The Fossil Expedition is back! Join our leaders and find out why we find fossils at Betteshanger, learn about the fossils we find and set out into our quarry with the tools of the trade to find your own 300+ million year old fossils and receive your junior doctorate in Palaeontology!
UNFORTUNATELY FOSSIL HUNTING IS WEATHER DEPENDANT AND WET WEATHER MAY RESULT IN SESSION CANCELLATION.
All children must be accompanied by a paying adult.
Please note, all participants under 18 must be accompanied by a paying adult. Non paying customers are not permitted to enter the quarry but may supervise from outside the waist high fence.
Please check in at the reception 15 minutes before your session, allowing time to the Fossil Quarry where the session runs, please bring your booking reference email (on phone is fine) to take part in the session.
PLEASE NOTE PARKING IS NOT INCLUDED IN THE TICKET PRICE.
Adventure Tips
Wear durable clothing
Sturdy footwear and knee pads help you navigate the quarry and protect against rough terrain.
Bring a small brush and tools
Assist in cleaning and carefully extracting fossils without damaging them.
Plan for a half-day activity
Allocate 3–4 hours for a full fossil hunt and learning session.
Check the weather forecast
Dress appropriately for outdoor conditions and potential rain or sun.
Local Insights
Wildlife
- European hedgehog
- Common lizard
History
Betteshanger’s quarry was once a thriving coal mining site before transforming into a fossil hunting playground.
Conservation
The site is managed with sustainability in mind, ensuring eco-friendly fossil collecting and habitat preservation.
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Adventure Hotspots in Canterbury
Frequently Asked Questions
Recommended Gear
Sturdy hiking boots
Good traction and ankle support are vital for rocky quarry terrain.
Small hammer and chisel
Useful tools for excavating fossils carefully and precisely.
Sun protection (hat, sunscreen)
Shield yourself from sun exposure during outdoor activities.
summer specific
Headlamp or flashlight
Helps see fine details and work in shaded areas.