Guides on the practical questions UK metal detectorists actually face — landowner permission and access, the Treasure Act 1996 and reporting obligations, cleaning and identifying what you find, and honest gear decisions that aren’t dressed up as advice from a shop with detectors to sell.
Found something valuable while metal detecting? You must report Treasure Act finds within 14 days. Here's the step-by-step guide to documenting, reporting, and sharing finds legally.
Found something shiny in a field? You might legally own it—but the Crown might have a stronger claim. Here's what the Treasure Act 1996 actually says.
You can’t just walk onto any field in the UK. Here’s the step-by-step guide to getting landowner permission, reporting treasure, and choosing the right gear for your budget.
Thinking about detecting without permission? It’s not always a criminal offence, but it is trespass. Here’s the legal reality and how to stay safe.
Most people think metal detecting needs a government licence. The truth is simpler: you need permission and the right cover. Here's what you actually need to know.
Think public beaches are free to detect? You might be trespassing. This guide clarifies the legal boundaries of the foreshore vs. dry sand and who owns the beach.
Think public land is free to hunt? It’s not. Here’s the hard truth about metal detecting on open access land, parks, and common land in the UK.
Most guides say "ask the farmer," but they miss the tenant trap. If the land is leased, you need permission from both the landowner and the tenant to avoid prosecution. Here's the two-step strategy that works.
Think right-to-roam means you can detect anywhere? It doesn't. Here's the complete legal guide to permission, Crown Estate foreshore, and protected sites in the UK.