Registration for PMAC26, the Post-Medieval Archaeology Congress 2026, has opened! Join us at the University of Reading, UK, from 15 to 17 May for a vibrant conference covering new research, innovations in methodology and theory in post-Medieval archaeology and friendly networking with colleagues from around the world.
Discounted advance ticket prices are available until 31 March. Full-price late registration is available from 1 April to 27 April.
Registration includes:
- Keynote lecture by the Director of the Museum of English Rural Life (15 May, 17:30)
- Opening Reception at the Museum of English Rural Life (following Keynote, 15 May 18:30-19:30, registration required, see add-ons)
- Welcome pre-Congress breakfast for PhD students (May 16)
- In-person scientific programme (May 16-17)
- Daily coffee and tea breaks (May 16-17), lunch on Saturday, 16 May
- Guided Tour of the post-Medival History of Whiteknights campus (16 May, 17:45-19:00)
- An on-campus parking pass valid for Congress dates.
You can also book from a selection of guided tours and events happening around the Congress, at an additional cost.
Registration for PMAC26 is on Eventbrite. Pick your ticket, choose any add-ons, you can even include a donation to support our student travel award or SPMA’s work..
Advance prices (closes 31 March):
- SPMA member, £95
- Non-member, £150
- SPMA student member, £45
- Student non-member, £80
Late registration prices (1-27 April):
- SPMA member, £120
- Non-member, £175
- SPMA student member, £65
- Student non-member, £100
We look forward to seeing you in May!
Dear SPMA,
My name is Adam Green and I am a Citizen Journalist preparing a news article examining claims made in a recent heritage initiative in Ormskirk, Lancashire, which describes a series of town centre ginnels as reflecting medieval street patterns.
Following academic advice, I understand this question may fall more appropriately within the scope of post-medieval and later urban development, and I would therefore greatly value the Society’s expert perspective.
In particular, I would be grateful for comment on the following:
Historical Interpretation
How plausible is it that ginnels in towns like Ormskirk genuinely derive from medieval street layouts?
In your experience, are such features more commonly associated with post-medieval development phases?
Urban Development Context
To what extent are ginnels typically the result of later processes such as plot subdivision, infill development, or 18th–19th century urban expansion?
Are there established indicators that distinguish medieval street morphology from later adaptations?
Evidence and Standards
What forms of evidence (e.g. historic mapping, archaeological investigation, documentary sources) would normally be required to substantiate a claim of medieval origin?
Would it be considered appropriate to make such claims publicly without this level of verification?
Wider Perspective
How common is it for heritage or regeneration projects to attribute features to medieval origins without firm evidence?
What risks or consequences can arise from this in terms of public understanding or heritage interpretation?
A short written response would be greatly appreciated, and I am happy to attribute comments to the Society or an appropriate spokesperson.
Many thanks for your time and consideration.
I very much look forward to hearing from you.
Kind regards
Adam Green
Citizen Journalist
North West Bylines
Hi Adam, thanks for getting in touch. We recommend that you contact the local archaeology service team to learn more about the archaeology and history of the town development including its street plan. Lancashire Historic Environment Record https://www.lancashire.gov.uk/council/planning/historic-environment-record/ includes a wealth of data and a range of Historic Town Survey Reports.
The conference program looks very insightful, so could you please clarify if there are any student discounts available for registration?” Regards Telkom University Jakarta
Thank you for your enquiry. Each year we offer student discount rates which are advertised in the list of conference ticket prices.