In this episode of Detecting History, I’m joined by Murray Price, one of the five detectorists behind the Bearded Bleepers, detecting across the Surrey Hills.

We talk about Murray’s metal detecting journey, his detector upgrades from the Garrett Ace 150 to the Vanquish 540 and now the Equinox 900, plus the kit he relies on in the field (and why comfort and weight matter when you’re swinging all day).

Then we get into the big story: the Bearded Bleepers have created a display with the Sheer Museum, showcasing finds and stories from the local landscape, with an evolving exhibition that opens when the museum reopens on 14 February 2026

We also cover:

• How Murray approaches getting permissions (flyers on gates, parish magazines, community outreach, and realistic success rates)
• The “why” of detecting: mental health, friendship, fitness, and learning history through objects
• Murray’s favourite finds, including a Women’s Land Army badge, a Dutch WWII coin with RAF context near Dunsfold, and a confirmed early medieval dagger pommel
• Tips for beginners: why slowing down and working methodically can beat “head for the hills”
• Bucket list targets (Saxon or Viking buckles), plus a bit of Richard III history chat

Find the Bearded Bleepers online:

Website: https://beardedbleepers.co.uk/

Instagram/Facebook: @beardedbleepers

Shout-outs in this episode: Ray & Steve – Adventures In Finding Stuff, and the rest of the Bearded Bleepers crew: Jan, Ashley, Michael H, and Michael, plus Marsha at Sheer Museum.

If you enjoy the episode, please follow the show, leave a rating, and come say hello on socials. And remember: just keep digging.

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Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/detectinghistorychannel/

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Youtube Channel https://www.youtube.com/@DetectingHistoryChannel

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This midweek episode focuses on events in British history that fall between the 20th and 25th of February.

We begin with the coronation of Edward VI in 1547, a nine-year-old king whose Protestant regents pushed England through its most radical religious transformation. Churches changed, rituals disappeared and devotional objects were removed, hidden or destroyed.

We then move to 1570, when Elizabeth I was formally excommunicated by Pope Pius V. The decision intensified religious division, strengthened state surveillance and forced Catholic worship underground.

Finally, we step into the lived reality of late winter Britain. February marked the hungry gap, when food ran low, labourers moved for work, militias prepared for spring campaigns and markets shaped daily survival. These movements explain why coins, clothing fasteners, trade items and devotional artefacts are still found in the soil today.

This is the story of Tudor power, religious change and the everyday lives beneath it.

10% off some items at Regton Metal Detectors using promo code DHPodcast

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Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/detectinghistorychannel/

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Youtube Channel https://www.youtube.com/@DetectingHistoryChannel

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In this episode of the Detecting History Podcast, I’m joined by John MacEachen, better known as the Scottish Detectorist. With tens of thousands of YouTube subscribers and millions of views, John has become one of the most recognisable and respected voices in the detecting community.

We explore how he first got into metal detecting, the machines he’s used across 26 years in the hobby, and how technology has transformed the way we search and record history. John shares insights into filming detecting content for YouTube, improving audio and visual quality, and the realities behind running a successful detecting channel.

We also dive into some of his most memorable finds, from Bronze Age axe heads and Roman material to Scottish coinage and deeply personal artefacts that connect directly to people of the past. The conversation highlights why detecting is about far more than coins, it’s about stories, context and human connection.

A key part of the discussion focuses on the differences between detecting in Scotland and England, including Treasure Trove, reporting responsibilities, and why responsible detecting matters more than ever. John also offers practical advice for beginners on choosing the right machine, gaining permissions, perseverance in the field, and starting a detecting YouTube channel.

Whether you’re new to the hobby or have years behind the coil, this episode is a brilliant look at the mindset, discipline and passion behind successful metal detecting and content creation.

The Scottish Detectorist YouTube channel:https://www.youtube.com/@thescottishdetectorist

10% off some items at Regton Metal Detectors using promo code DHPodcast

Follow the podcast on all socials:

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/detectinghistorypodcast/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/DetectingHistoryChannel/

TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@detectinghistorychannel

Youtube Channel https://www.youtube.com/@DetectingHistoryChannel

Hit the follow button to get all the new episodes first!

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