Metal detecting is becoming more than just a hobby for many people. In a 2018 survey, about 1.5% of adult citizens in England reported participation in metal detecting activities within the past one-year period. Reports of treasure discovered through these activities are quickly increasing. In 1996, less than 100 reported cases of treasure were found. Yet, by the year 2017, there was a provisional figure reaching close to 1,400.
With more treasures being found, there is an increase in the number of people interested in treasure hunting. Getting into this hobby now is the ideal opportunity to claim part of the hidden treasures scattered throughout the lands of the UK. For many, there are questions about legality, permits, and where the best spots are to find a treasure – a few factors that we’re going to cover in this post.
Permits And Legality Surrounding Metal Detecting In The UK
Before going out and exploring the world with a metal detector, it is important to understand the laws and regulations related to this hobby. Fortunately, for the past few decades, licenses have not been a requirement for people who want to go on a relic or treasure hunting trip in the country.
In the UK, people are free to explore public or crown owned beaches throughout the country. There are also several public-owned properties that can be explored with a metal detector and related equipment.
On the other hand, a few locations will need a special permit before relic hunting can be conducted. This is generally the case with privately owned beaches and lands. Before starting to hunt for treasures on these properties and beaches, the hunter will need to consult with the owners. Permission is required prior to participating in these activities. It is important for the hunter to obtain a permit from the owners, as this serves as evidence that permission was granted.
Spots To Find Treasure In The UK
The first step to finding a great treasure hunting spot is understanding where it is legal and permitted to use a metal detector. There are more locations where the activity is permitted than some may realise. It can be especially difficult during the beginner stages to find that perfect spot.
In this section, we’ll be looking at a few excellent spots that can be used for treasure hunting.
1. The Backyard
When there are concerns about permits, and the hunter feels unsure where they are able to start out, then the backyard might be the right area, to begin with. Many people overlook the fact that the backyard holds a lot of potentials when it comes to relic hunter. In fact, there are several people who have found valuable treasure right in their own garden.
Thus, those who have only received their metal detector should start in their own yard. A thorough sweep should be done. Start at the front region of the property, and do a complete swoop up to the backyard.
This also yields an excellent opportunity for training. The beginner can use this strategy to help them identify different sounds made by the metal detector in response to specific structures.
Make sure to take things slow when swooping the yard. Patience is the key to successful relic and treasure hunting activities.
2. A Trip To The Beach
Once more experience is gained, the next step is to visit the beach. This is another excellent strategy for finding treasure. It is important to ensure that a beach is public and not privately owned. When visiting a public beach, there will usually be no regulations related to treasure hunting. A person can freely use their equipment on the beach.
Beaches can be huge, so it might be a good idea to plan a trip out. The family could even come along and enjoy time at the beach, while the treasure hunter goes on a trip to find relics, coins, and other metals buried beneath the sand.
Before visiting the beach for metal detection, it is important to take note of the capabilities that a metal detector holds. The person should ensure the metal detector can be used on the sand. Not all metal detectors are safe to be used on the beach.
Additionally, some metal detectors are waterproof. This is a useful option for expanding the reach. The metal detector should clearly state that it is waterproof, as internal structures can damage if there is no seal.
3. A Walk In The Park / Or Walking Route
Another excellent location for treasure hunting is the park. This is a favourite location among beginners, and even some of the more experienced individuals go out to different parks to find buried treasure.
When it comes to parks, the legality is generally the same as with beaches. The relic hunter should ensure they are visiting a public park. If the park is owned privately, then the relic hunter will need to obtain permission from the owner.
It is important to sweep all areas of the park. This includes areas close to trees and bushes, as well as in the garden beds. If treasures are identified in garden beds, it can be a tricky situation. The treasure hunter should confirm with park officials and security providers if they are able to dig up treasure at this spot.
4. Stadiums
Thousands of people visit stadiums to watch the latest game of football and other events. This is why stadiums also serve as quite a popular attraction point for treasure hunters. Not all stadiums are accessible to treasure hunters, but those that can be analysed may hold significant opportunity for unearthing valuable findings.
Stadiums are the perfect area to look for coins that have found their way to the lower layers of the ground. In some cases, people have also discovered other valuables in these locations.
Conclusion
Treasure hunting is fun and can sometimes lead to valuable finds, which can be added to a collection or even sold at high prices. Finding the right place to go metal detecting can be a challenge, especially for those who are new to the hobby. We outlined some of the best places to find treasure, with some being seemingly obvious, yet often overlooked.
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