If you’ve been metal detecting for a while, you’ll know that finding a good spot and then getting permission to metal detect there is half the battle. Sure, you’ve got your metal detector, you’ve got your gear, and you’re ready to uncover history—but where do you start digging? Research is an important factor. Whether you’re searching for buried coins in a quiet British field or hunting for relics in a bustling American town, knowing how to research the right sites can make or break your metal detecting adventures.
But here’s the thing: there’s no one-size-fits-all approach to finding the perfect spot. The strategies that work in the UK can be very different from those you’ll use in the USA. From using local historical records and online maps to connecting with fellow detectorists and getting the necessary permissions, each country has its unique ways to uncover the best locations.
In this guide, I’ll walk you through how to research metal detecting sites in both the UK and the USA. We’ll cover everything from local resources to the best online tools, plus a few insider tips to help you find those hidden treasures wherever you are. Ready to dig deeper? Let’s get started!
Why Researching the Right Site Matters for Metal Detecting
Let’s face it, metal detecting is a bit like treasure hunting. But just like any good treasure hunt, you need to know where to start digging. The right site can make all the difference between finding a handful of modern coins or uncovering something truly special, like a Roman artifact or a Civil War relic. And trust me, there’s nothing worse than spending hours swinging your detector in all the wrong places!
Researching the right site is crucial because it saves you time and maximizes your chances of success. Think about it: you wouldn’t go fishing in an empty pond, right? The same principle applies to metal detecting. You need to be in the right spot—somewhere with a rich history and the potential for hidden treasures waiting to be discovered.
But it’s not just about finding great stuff; it’s also about respecting the law and preserving history. Every country has its own rules about where you can and can’t detect. In the UK, for example, there are protected sites where detecting is a big no-no. The USA has its fair share of rules too, especially when it comes to federal lands and historical sites. Doing your homework means you’re not only hunting legally but also ethically—protecting both your finds and the land itself.
And here’s the kicker: researching doesn’t just make you a better detectorist, it makes you a smarter one. By learning to use historical maps, old records, and online tools, you’re turning your hobby into a real adventure—one where every dig is an opportunity to uncover a story from the past.
So, if you want to up your game, find those hidden treasures, and avoid any unwanted trouble, it’s time to get serious about researching your sites. After all, the more you know, the more you’ll find! If you’re anything like me you’ll find the researching and build up to going out on that land is just as exciting as detecting it.
How to Research Metal Detecting Sites in the UK
The UK is a treasure trove of history, with layers of human activity stretching back thousands of years. From Roman coins to medieval artifacts, there’s no shortage of incredible finds waiting to be uncovered. But finding the right spot requires a bit of detective work. Here’s how to get started with researching metal detecting sites in the UK.
Local History Resources
One of the best places to start is with local history resources. Visit your local library or historical society to dive into old maps, documents, and records that can offer clues about where people lived, worked, and travelled centuries ago.
Keep an eye out for mentions of old footpaths, abandoned villages, or areas known for historical events, these are prime locations for metal detecting.
Don’t forget to check out the Portable Antiquities Scheme (PAS) database, which records thousands of finds made by detectorists across the UK. This resource can give you an idea of what has been found nearby and where, helping you target your search more effectively.
Online Maps, Aerial Imagery & Lidar Maps
Thanks to modern technology, you don’t need to be a cartographer to uncover hidden sites. Online tools like Google Earthand the Old Maps Online are invaluable for identifying potential metal detecting locations. Look for areas that show signs of old structures, paths, or subtle changes in the landscape—these often point to historical activity worth investigating.


The UK Ordnance Survey mapsare another fantastic resource. They provide detailed topographical information, so you can pinpoint features like old roads, mills, abandoned villages, and ancient settlements.
But if you really want to get serious about your research, consider using LIDAR maps.
LIDAR (Light Detection and Ranging) technology uses laser scanning to create highly detailed 3D maps of the ground surface, cutting through vegetation and revealing hidden features like ancient roads, ditches, and foundations that might not be visible to the naked eye, and it’s perfect for finding subtle landscape features that could point to historical human activity.
LIDAR maps website can be a bit temperamental at times so be patient with it. It’s helped me find really interesting permissions.
By combining traditional maps, aerial imagery, and LIDAR data, you’ll have a powerful research kit to spot those potentially fruitful sites that most other detectorists might overlook.
Remember, the more tools you use, the better your chances of finding something truly special!
Join UK Metal Detecting Clubs and Forums
Sometimes, the best research comes from talking to other detectorists. Joining a local metal detecting club or participating in online forums like UK Detector Netor the NCMDcan provide you with invaluable insights.
communities are full of experienced detectorists who can share tips on local sites, give advice on techniques, and help you understand the local rules and regulations.
Often or not they’ve done the research before hand for their chosen rally digs and secured the permission.
Networking is key in this hobby; you might even make some friends along the way who can introduce you to landowners or invite you to group digs!
Walk the fields
Field walking is a classic technique that remains as valuable as ever. Before you even start swinging your detector, spend some time walking across the fields you’re interested in.
Look closely at the ground for clues like broken Roman pottery, flint tools, or bits of clay pipe these are signs that there could be more hidden below.
I’ve had some fantastic eyes only finds walking fields!
While you’re walking, be on the lookout for what’s known as “green waste.” This is scrap material that farmers sometimes spread over fields for a fee.
It’s a detectorist’s nightmare because it creates a lot of false signals, wasting time and effort. If you spot a lot of green waste, you might want to rethink detecting there or at least prepare for a day of digging up shredded old aluminium windows!
Talk to locals
I mean I am in a lucky position as a landlord of a village pub, I get to hear all the old stories and the inside info on what’s been found where.
But before I became a landlord visiting pubs near the land I wanted to detect on actually served me well and got me other permissions. There’s a wealth of knowledge from locals waiting to be untapped.
Get Permission from Landowners
In the UK, permission is everything. Without it, you could find yourself in hot water.
Once you’ve identified a promising site, the next step is to get the landowner’s permission.
Approach them respectfully, explain your hobby, and make it clear that you’ll leave the site exactly as you found it. Reassure them that you will show them everything that you find on the land.
Usual practice in the UK is a 50/50 share if anything of value is found. This of course will be split after it’s gone through the treasure process. Which I explain in another post.
It’s always a good start if you have a membership with groups like NCMD for just a small annual fee you’ll be covered with public liability insurance.
Remember, a polite request and a friendly demeanour is key.
There are of course other ways to gain permission from landowners you can read our how to get permission from landowners to metal detect guide here.
Check the local laws and regulations
Don’t forget to familiarize yourself with the local laws and regulations. Certain areas, like scheduled monuments or protected archaeological sites, are off-limits.
You can check these on the Historic England website or through local council resources.
Knowing where you’re allowed to detect is just as important as knowing where you want to detect!
How to Research Metal Detecting Sites in the USA
The USA is rich with history, from colonial settlements to Civil War battlegrounds, and everything in between. But finding the right metal detecting site takes more than just heading to the nearest park or beach. The key is knowing where to look and how to dig deeper—figuratively speaking! Here are some of the best ways to research metal detecting sites in the USA.
Leverage Historical Records and Archives
One of the best places to start is with local historical records. Head to your local library, historical society, or county archives to dig through old maps, newspapers, and documents.
These resources can reveal the locations of long-forgotten homesteads, trading posts, or battlefields. And don’t just stop at your local level check out national resources like the Library of Congress or the National Archives, which are packed with valuable historical records that could point you to potential sites.
Look for clues like old towns, ghost towns, migration routes, or areas mentioned in historical accounts. Many of these locations are prime spots for metal detecting, with the potential for some seriously exciting finds!
Use Online Tools and Maps
Just like in the UK, the internet is your friend when it comes to researching metal detecting sites in the USA.
Start with tools like Historic Aerials to view historical aerial photos and topographic maps of your chosen area.
You can compare images from different time periods to see how the landscape has changed, often revealing clues like old building foundations, pathways, or fields that were once bustling with activity.
Don’t forget to use USGS Topo Maps (U.S. Geological Survey) and resources like Google Earth to get a lay of the land. These tools are great for spotting old roads, ghost towns, and other areas of interest.
And if you really want to go high-tech, check out LIDAR maps available through resources like the USGS National Map Viewer. LIDAR data can reveal hidden features beneath the vegetation, like ancient trails, building foundations, or buried structures that could be teeming with artifacts. It’s like having x-ray vision for the ground—perfect for finding those overlooked spots!
Join USA Metal Detecting Clubs and Online Communities
Sometimes, the best advice comes from others who have been there and done that. Joining local metal detecting clubs or engaging in online communities like TreasureNet or the Federation of Metal Detector and Archaeological Clubs (FMDAC) can be a game-changer. These clubs and forums are filled with seasoned detectorists who are eager to share their tips on great detecting sites, techniques, and navigating local laws.
Networking with other detectorists can also help you get inside information on local permissions, recent finds, and upcoming group hunts. Plus, it’s a great way to make friends who share your passion for uncovering history!
Research Public Land Regulations
Here’s a big one: always, always check the regulations before you start detecting. In the USA, detecting laws can vary widely from state to state, and even from county to county. Some areas, like national parks or federal lands, are strictly off-limits to metal detecting. Others, like state parks or Bureau of Land Management (BLM) lands, may require special permits or have specific rules about where and when you can detect.
Visit the National Park Service website or the Bureau of Land Management (BLM) website to understand the rules for public lands. Some local governments also have their own regulations, so make sure you do your homework to avoid any fines or conflicts.
Look for Clues in Local Terrain and Land Use
Once you’ve done your homework with maps and records, take a walk around your chosen area. Look for physical clues in the landscape—things like old stone walls, abandoned wells, cellar holes, or even clusters of old trees that might indicate a former homestead or settlement. Pay attention to changes in vegetation or depressions in the ground, which could signal buried structures or artifacts.
And keep an eye out for signs of modern interference too—like signs warning against trespassing or areas marked as private property. The last thing you want is to start detecting in a spot that’s off-limits!
Common Mistakes to Avoid When Researching Metal Detecting Sites
Researching metal detecting sites can be just as exciting as the hunt itself, but it’s easy to make mistakes that can lead to frustration, wasted time, or even legal trouble. Here are some of the most common pitfalls to avoid when researching your next metal detecting location.
Not Verifying Land Ownership
One of the biggest mistakes you can make is not verifying who owns the land you plan to detect on.
It’s tempting to assume that a seemingly abandoned field or a quiet patch of woods is fair game, but you’d be surprised how often that’s not the case. It’s a common misconception when people think they can detect on public land or common land in the UK.
Always check local property records or online land registries to confirm ownership. This step not only keeps you on the right side of the law but also ensures you’re not trespassing on someone’s private property. Remember, a little research now can save a lot of headaches later.
Ignoring Local Regulations and Laws
Every country, state, or region has its own set of rules about where you can and can’t metal detect. Failing to familiarize yourself with these regulations is a rookie mistake.
For example, metal detecting in national parks or protected archaeological sites is generally a no-go and can result in hefty fines or even confiscation of your equipment.
Make sure you check resources like the National Park Service or Historic England websites and read our guide on metal detecting laws here.
Relying on Just One Source of Information
Another common mistake? Relying on a single source of information for your research. Whether it’s an old map, a website, or a tip from a fellow detectorist, using just one source can lead you to a dead end.
Instead, combine multiple resources, historical records, aerial maps, LIDAR data, and local archives to build a more complete picture of a site’s potential. The more information you have, the better your chances of finding a truly promising spot.
Failing to Consider the Terrain
It’s easy to get carried away with historical records and promising aerial maps, but don’t forget to consider the actual terrain of your chosen site. Some sites may look fantastic on paper but could be covered in dense vegetation, have uneven ground, or be riddled with rocks making them difficult or even dangerous to detect. Always do a bit of scouting first, and if possible, use online resources like Google Earth or LIDAR maps to get a sense of the terrain before you head out.
Ignoring Clues in the Field
While you’re out detecting, don’t forget to keep your eyes open for clues that could indicate whether a site is worth your time. For example, spotting “green waste” (scattered scrap metal or debris left by farmers) can make detecting a real headache, as you’ll spend more time digging junk than actual treasure. Likewise, keep an eye out for pottery shards, glass fragments, or old coins on the surface these signs could point to a promising area just below.
Not Documenting Your Research
Last but not least, not documenting your research is a big mistake. Keep a log or digital record of all the places you’ve researched, sites you’ve detected on, and what you found there. This can help you track which methods worked, which sites were productive, and where you might want to return in the future. Plus, it’s a handy reference if you ever need to share your research or get permission for a new site. I’ll be adding a metal detecting journal template soon for you. So be sure to bookmark this page.
FAQs About Researching Metal Detecting Sites
1. What Are the Best Resources for Finding Metal Detecting Sites in the UK?
The best resources for researching metal detecting sites in the UK include local libraries, historical societies, and the Portable Antiquities Scheme (PAS) database. Online tools like the Old Maps Online and Google Earth are great for identifying old pathways, ruins, and fields. Don’t forget to check out LIDAR data from the Environment Agency to uncover hidden landscape features.
2. How Can I Find Good Metal Detecting Sites in the USA?
Start with local historical records at libraries or historical societies, and explore national resources like the Library of Congress and National Archives. Use tools like Historic Aerials, USGS Topo Maps, and Google Earth to examine historical landscapes. LIDAR maps from the USGS National Map Viewer can help you find hidden structures and features not visible to the naked eye.
3. Do I Need Permission to Metal Detect on Private Land?
Yes, you absolutely need permission to metal detect on private land in both the UK and the USA. Always contact the landowner and get written consent before you start detecting. In many cases, building good relationships with landowners can lead to access to other sites as well.
4. What Are Common Mistakes to Avoid When Researching Metal Detecting Sites?
Common mistakes include not verifying land ownership, ignoring local regulations, relying on a single source of information, and overlooking the terrain. It’s also important to avoid detecting on restricted sites or failing to document your research.
5. What Tools Should I Use to Research Metal Detecting Sites?
Use a combination of online maps, aerial imagery, LIDAR data, and local historical records. Tools like Google Earth, Historic Aerials, USGS Topo Maps, and LIDAR data platforms are great for uncovering potential sites. Cross-referencing multiple resources is key to getting a complete picture.
6. How Can I Identify Signs of Past Human Activity While in the Field?
Look for clues like broken pottery, glass shards, clay pipes, or old bricks on the ground. These signs often indicate that people lived or worked in the area. Also, watch out for changes in the terrain, such as depressions or mounds, which could suggest buried structures.
7. What Should I Know About Metal Detecting Laws in the UK and USA?
In the UK, detecting is often restricted on protected sites like scheduled monuments. You must report significant finds to the Portable Antiquities Scheme (PAS). In the USA, detecting is generally prohibited on federal lands without a permit, and state or local laws may vary. Always check the regulations before you start detecting. We’ve wrote a more in depth article about metal detecting laws here.
8. How Can I Use LIDAR Maps for Metal Detecting?
LIDAR maps use laser scanning to create detailed 3D images of the landscape, revealing hidden features like ancient roads, ditches, or building foundations. Access LIDAR data through resources like the USGS National Map Viewer for the USA or the Environment Agency’s LIDAR portal in the UK to enhance your site research.
9. What Are the Benefits of Joining Metal Detecting Clubs and Online Communities?
Joining clubs and online communities like TreasureNet or the British Metal Detecting Association (BMDA) offers access to insider knowledge, site recommendations, and tips from experienced detectorists. Networking can also help you gain access to private land and learn about local regulations.


Passionate about history, metal detecting, and the thrill of the hunt, I’ve spent years uncovering hidden treasures across the Lincolnshire countryside and beyond. As a pub landlord with a love for music and a knack for storytelling, I bring a unique perspective to every adventure—whether it’s finding a rare coin in a field or sharing tales of British history.
When I’m not swinging a detector, you’ll find me exploring micro hobbies, dreaming of life on a canal boat, or helping others dive into the world of metal detecting with practical advice and a good dose of humor.