Salisbury Cathedral appoints new Cathedral Archaeologist

Thursday, 22 January 2026 11:11

Image: Salisbury Cathedral & Martin Cook

Salisbury Cathedral has appointed Alfred R J Hawkins as its new Cathedral Archaeologist.

Alfred is Curator of Historic Buildings at HM Tower of London for Historic Royal Palaces, a role which he will continue to hold alongside his work for Salisbury Cathedral. He is also Cathedral Archaeologist at Portsmouth Cathedral.

The Cathedral Archaeologist acts as a consultant, providing professional advice to Chapter, the Cathedral’s governing body, on all matters for which it has archaeological responsibility. It is an important role that assists Chapter in fulfilling its responsibility for carefully managing the historic heritage of the Cathedral and Close.

Alfred has worked in the commercial archaeology and heritage sectors as an archaeological researcher, archaeologist and, subsequently, a historic building specialist. At Historic Royal Palaces, he advises on large-scale development projects as well as ongoing conservation work. He is a specialist in archaeological best practice and human remains, building conservation and ecclesiastical law, with a particular interest in cathedrals and royal peculiars, important churches which aren’t directly linked to a diocese.

Alfred is also a writer and broadcaster, having appeared on BBC2’s Digging for Britain, Channel 5’s Inside the Tower of London and Discovery Channel’s Unearthed.

Alfred R J Hawkins said, “I am honoured and excited to have been appointed as Salisbury’s new Cathedral Archaeologist. It is a great privilege to be able to play a role in the continued care of this exceptional historic site and place of worship.”

The Revd Nicholas Papadopulos, Dean of Salisbury, said, “Salisbury Cathedral is committed to the expert care of all its built heritage. Alfred’s work with us will be vital to this endeavour. I welcome him to the Cathedral team and look forward to everything we will accomplish together”.