Drone Archaeological Survey Services

What Is a Drone Archaeological Survey?

A drone archaeological survey uses advanced aerial technology to detect, record, and map archaeological features that are invisible or difficult to see from ground level. Our UAVs capture high-resolution imagery and data that reveal crop marks, earthworks, and buried structures across the landscape.

At Drone Survey Services, we combine photogrammetry, multispectral imaging, and thermal sensing to create comprehensive archaeological records. This non-invasive approach preserves the integrity of sites while providing archaeologists with detailed survey data for research, planning applications, and heritage management.

James Leslie

Owner, Engineer & Drone Pilot

"Got questions? Call me directly - I'm happy to talk through your project."

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Reveal Hidden History,Non-Invasively

What You'll Receive

• High-resolution site orthomosaic
• 3D terrain and feature models
• Crop mark analysis report
• CAD-ready survey drawings

Delivered in 5-7 working days

Why Choose Us

• CAA approved & fully insured
• Experience with heritage projects
• Latest drone & sensor technology
• UK-wide coverage

Trusted by archaeology units, heritage organisations and consultancies across the UK.

Available now — typically respond within 10 mins

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Trusted by leading organisations

How Much Does a Drone Archaeological Survey Cost?

Pricing depends on your project scope and requirements. Here's a guide to help you budget:

*Guide prices include standard deliverables. Final quote based on site complexity, access, and specific requirements.

What affects your quote?

• Site size & terrain
• Required deliverables
• Turnaround time
• Sensor requirements

Our drone-based approach typically saves 40–60% compared to traditional ground survey methods while covering sites far more quickly. Contact us with your project details and we'll provide a tailored quote within 24 hours.

What Is the Difference Between Drone Archaeological Survey and Traditional Methods?

Traditional archaeological survey relies on ground-based techniques like total station recording, GPS plotting, and manual photography. While accurate, these methods are time-consuming, weather-dependent, and limited in the perspective they can offer.

Drone archaeological survey captures the entire site from above in a fraction of the time, revealing patterns and features that are simply invisible from ground level. Crop marks, subtle earthworks, and landscape relationships become immediately apparent when viewed from altitude.

What Accuracy Can a Drone Archaeological Survey Achieve?

Our drone archaeological surveys achieve positional accuracy of ±2-3cm when using ground control points—meeting or exceeding the standards required for most archaeological recording. Ground sample distances of 1-2cm per pixel ensure individual features are clearly visible and measurable.

We use RTK-enabled drones with survey-grade GNSS positioning, combined with carefully distributed ground control points measured with our own GPS equipment. This workflow produces georeferenced outputs that integrate seamlessly with your existing site records and national grid references.

What Are the Applications of Drone Archaeological Survey?

Drone archaeological survey has transformed heritage recording across numerous applications. Here are the key areas where our clients see the greatest value:

Can Drones Reveal Hidden Archaeological Features?

Absolutely—this is one of the most powerful applications of drone archaeological survey. Features buried beneath the surface can become visible through several phenomena that are best observed from the air.

Crop marks form when buried ditches retain more moisture, causing crops above to grow taller and remain green longer. Conversely, buried walls and floors restrict root growth, creating stunted or stressed vegetation. Our drones capture these subtle differences during optimal conditions—typically early summer mornings after dry spells.

We can advise on the optimal timing for your survey based on the features you're hoping to detect, the crops grown on site, and current weather conditions. Many of our most significant discoveries have been made by flying at the right moment.

What Deliverables Do You Get From a Drone Archaeological Survey?

We tailor deliverables to your project requirements, but our standard archaeological survey outputs include:

• Site Orthomosaic

  High-resolution, georeferenced aerial photograph of the entire site, typically at 1-2cm ground sample distance. Perfect for interpretation and as a base for GIS work.

• 3D Models

  Detailed 3D mesh and point cloud of excavations, structures, and terrain. Export for analysis, archive, or public engagement projects.

• Feature Mapping

  Interpretive mapping of visible archaeological features, crop marks, and earthworks overlaid on the orthomosaic.

• CAD Drawings

  Survey-accurate CAD files compatible with your existing workflows. DXF, DWG, and Shapefile formats available.

• Excavation Support

  Real-time orthophotos and progress models during excavation, enabling rapid decision-making and comprehensive recording.

How Long Does a Drone Archaeological Survey Take?

On-site data capture is remarkably efficient. A typical excavation site can be surveyed in 30-60 minutes of flight time, while larger landscape surveys covering several hectares take just a few hours. We can survey sites during excavation breaks with minimal disruption to the dig team.

Processing and delivery depends on project complexity and your required outputs. Standard deliverables are typically ready within 5-7 working days. For urgent projects—such as fast-track excavations or planning deadlines—we offer expedited processing with 48-72 hour turnaround.

How Do I Choose a Drone Archaeological Survey Provider?

Not all drone survey providers understand the specific needs of archaeological projects. When evaluating providers, we recommend checking these key factors:

• CAA authorisation – Ensure they hold valid GVC or legacy PfCO permissions for commercial operations
• Archaeological understanding – Do they understand archaeological recording standards and your project requirements?
• Professional insurance – Public liability and professional indemnity cover appropriate to heritage sites
• Survey-grade accuracy – Can they provide the precision required for archaeological recording?
• Heritage sector experience – Request examples of archaeological projects they've completed

At Drone Survey Services, we tick every box. We're CAA approved, fully insured, and have delivered archaeological survey projects for commercial archaeology units, heritage organisations, and research projects throughout the UK.

Is Drone Archaeological Survey Cheaper Than Traditional Methods?

In most scenarios, yes—often significantly. Traditional photographic recording of excavations requires scaffold towers, multiple camera positions, and considerable time. Ground-based surveying of complex sites involves setting up stations and manually recording thousands of points.

Our drone surveys capture equivalent or better data in a fraction of the time. An excavation that might take half a day to photograph conventionally can be captured in minutes from the air, with far greater coverage and consistency. The cost savings typically range from 40-60% compared to traditional methods, while delivering faster turnaround and more comprehensive records.