Working with farmers and landowners

Responsible and Respectful Detecting

At Hidden Wirral, we understand that allowing people onto your land is a matter of trust. That’s why we operate to the highest standards of responsibility and respect. All of our members are fully insured through the National Council for Metal Detecting (NCMD) and we strictly follow their Code of Conduct. This ensures that all searches are carried out carefully, without damage to crops, livestock, or the land itself.

Committed to Recording Finds

We are not detecting for personal gain, but to contribute to a clearer picture of Wirral’s past. All significant finds are recorded with the Portable Antiquities Scheme (PAS), the official government programme for documenting archaeological discoveries. This means that objects found on your land can become part of the national historic record, adding valuable information for researchers, museums, and future generations.

Working in Partnership with Farmers

We know that farming comes first. That’s why we work entirely around the farming year, ensuring we only access fields at times that suit you. We are also happy to help in practical ways — whether that’s locating lost tools, bolts, or machinery parts, or reporting back anything we spot that may be of interest or concern on your land. Many farmers find this an additional benefit of granting permission.

Why It Matters

Much of Wirral’s archaeology remains underexplored. By granting permission, you are helping to shed light on the peninsula’s rich history — from Viking settlement and medieval farming to more recent rural life. Every field has a story to tell, and together we can help ensure those stories are recorded, understood, and preserved.