Field walking and metal detecting are non-invasive survey methods.

Field walking involves the systematic investigation of ploughed fields to collect and record surface finds. This method is useful for assessing the archaeological potential of a large area, identifying concentrations of artefacts, and pinpointing areas where further investigation might be warranted.

Metal detecting surveys may be requested as part of an archaeological planning condition, particularly if the development is on, or near, a battlefield site. Metal detecting surveys are slightly more invasive than fieldwalking, but are conducted in a similar manner, with a focus on metallic only artefacts. As with fieldwalking the results can be used to pinpoint areas where further investigation might be warranted.