Step Back in Time: Explore Roman Events at the Festival of Archaeology 2024
Get ready to immerse yourself in the rich history of Roman Britain with the Festival of Archaeology 2024, spanning from July 13th to July 28th. This year’s festival promises an array of captivating events across the UK, inviting you to uncover the secrets of ancient Rome through hands-on experiences, guided tours, and interactive activities. Whether you're a history buff, a family looking for a fun outing, or someone simply curious about our past, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.
Bristol’s Brilliant Archaeology
Location: Blaise Castle House Museum, Bristol
Date: Saturday, 13th July
Bristol’s Blaise Museum transforms into a hub of archaeological exploration, welcoming museum archaeologists, re-enactors, and local societies. Step onto the lawns of Blaise Castle and dive into mini excavations, weaving workshops, pottery making, and more. Discover the art of Roman archery or get your face painted Roman-style. It's a day filled with activities that bring history alive for visitors of all ages.
Armchair Archaeology at Clitheroe Castle
Location: Clitheroe Castle Museum, Lancashire
Date: Saturday, 27th July
Dive into the world of archaeology from the comfort of Clitheroe Castle Museum. Join Ribble Valley Archaeology to discover online tools for exploring local archaeological sites using satellite imagery. Handle real artifacts, learn about community archaeology projects, and gain insights into the techniques archaeologists use to piece together the past.
Horncastle Roman Wall Guided Tour
Location: Horncastle Library, Lincolnshire
Date: Saturday, 13th July
Join Dr. Ian Marshman, Chairman of Horncastle History & Heritage Society, on a journey through the mysterious Roman walls of Horncastle. Explore why these remnants still stand and what they reveal about the town's Roman past. Marvel at authentic Roman artifacts unearthed nearby and gain insights into Roman life in Lincolnshire.
Roman Leicester Family Day
Location: LCB Depot and various venues, Leicester
Date: Saturday, 13th July
Travel back in time to Roman Leicester with a day of immersive activities spread across Leicester’s Cultural Quarter. From handling real Roman pottery to participating in archaeological digs guided by University of Leicester experts, there’s plenty to engage both young and old. Don’t miss the chance to dress in Roman attire or learn about Roman aqueducts and military drills.
Sensory Heritage Walk
Location: Neath Sports Centre, Neath Port Talbot
Dates: Tuesday, 16th July & Tuesday, 23rd July
Experience the history of Neath through a unique sensory journey led by Community Heritage Officer Sarahjayne Clements and Dr. Edith Evans. This wheelchair-accessible guided walk takes you through Roman, Medieval, and Industrial archaeological sites, engaging your senses with sounds, scents, and tactile experiences. It’s a fascinating exploration of Neath's diverse heritage.
This is Archaeology Uncovering Roman Carlisle Project
Location: Online
Date: Wednesday, 17th July
Discover the hidden treasures of Carlisle’s Roman Bathhouse with Nick Henderson and the volunteers of Uncovering Roman Carlisle. Learn about the community-driven archaeological efforts that unearthed this historical gem. Hear firsthand accounts from volunteers and delve into the stories behind the artifacts that illuminate Carlisle’s Roman past.
Living History Day
Location: Bourne Hall Park, Ewell, Surrey
Date: Saturday, 20th July
Step into the bustling world of Roman Ewell with a living history extravaganza. Meet Roman re-enactors, witness thrilling gladiatorial combat demonstrations, and try your hand at ancient Roman crafts and trades. Explore Roman military tactics, sample Roman cuisine, and even consider joining the Roman army yourself. It’s an immersive experience for history enthusiasts of all ages.
Londinium: The Roman City
Location: All Hallows by the Tower, London
Date: Thursday, 25th July
Embark on a guided tour of Roman London with City of London guide Pete Smith. Begin at All Hallows by the Tower, where you'll delve into the city’s Roman history through exhibits and a model of Roman London. Wander through well-preserved sections of the Roman city wall and visit sites like the Forum, Basilica, Amphitheatre, and Fort, experiencing London’s ancient past firsthand.
Salisbury Museum - Festival of Archaeology
Location: Salisbury Museum, Wiltshire
Dates: Saturday, 27th July - Sunday, 28th July
Join the festivities at Salisbury Museum for a weekend celebrating archaeology, history, and living history. Located near the iconic Salisbury Cathedral and Stonehenge, the museum offers a packed schedule of talks, demonstrations, and interactive exhibits. Explore ancient artifacts and engage with experts to uncover the stories of Salisbury’s past.
Mid Wales Community Festival of Archaeology and Heritage
Location: Elan Valley Visitor Centre, Powys
Date: Sunday, 28th July
Explore the scenic Elan Valley at this community festival celebrating Mid Wales’ archaeology and heritage. Engage with local archaeology groups through pop-up exhibits and demonstrations showcasing everything from prehistoric tools to medieval artifacts. Discover how these findings offer glimpses into the daily lives of past inhabitants of the Elan Valley.
Leicester Heritage Rides – Roamin Through Ratae: Life in Roman Leicester
Location: Leicester
Date: Sunday, 30th June
Get on your bike with local historian Jim Butler, in cooperation with Ride Leicester, and explore Leicester’s history.
The Festival of Archaeology 2024 promises a thrilling journey into Roman Britain, offering opportunities to engage with history through immersive experiences and expert-led activities. Whether you're uncovering hidden artifacts, participating in a guided tour, or enjoying a living history demonstration, each event invites you to connect with the fascinating stories of our ancient past. Join us in celebrating archaeology and exploring the legacy of Roman civilization across the United Kingdom.
More Roman Events
Roman’s aren’t all we have! Explore events from other eras here.
