Rewind time and immerse yourself in the rich history of Chester's Roman Fort & Museum. Unearth the secrets of the Roman Empire as you explore the meticulously reconstructed fortress, walk the ancient walls and discover captivating artifacts. Unleash your inner historian and experience an unforgettable journey through the fascinating world of ancient Rome.
Chesters Roman Fort in a Nutshell
Handy information
| ⏰ Suggested Duration: | 2-3 hours |
| ☀️ Best Time to Visit: | 10 AM-11 AM |
| 🎟️ Chesters Roman Fort Ticket: | £8.60 |
Must-see at Chesters Roman Fort
- The Roman Bathhouse
- The Museum
- Hadrian's Wall
Getting There
Chollerford, Hexham, Northumberland, NE46 4EU
United Kingdom
Get Directions
Opening Hours
10 AM to 5 PM
Closed: Weekdays during off-season, Christmas Eve & Christmas Day
Why is Chesters Roman Fort Worth Visiting?
- Rich history: The fort was built in AD 124 and was occupied by the Romans for over 300 years. It is one of the most important archaeological sites in Britain, and it has yielded a wealth of information about Roman life.
- Walk in the footsteps of the Romans: Visitors can walk through the fort's impressive gateways, explore the ancient barracks, and see the remains of the bathhouse.
- Unique collections: The museum houses a vast collection of artifacts, including sculptures, pottery, jewelry and weapons. These artifacts provide a valuable glimpse into Roman life.
- Stunning scenery: Take in stunning views of the Northumberland countryside from the fort's commanding position on the North Tyne River. The views from the fort are stunning, and they offer visitors a relaxing setting to learn about Roman history.
Recommended Chesters Roman Fort Tickets
Chester's Roman Fort History
Delve into the captivating Chester's Roman Fort & Museum, a remarkable piece of history nestled along Hadrian's Wall, a defensive structure built by the Romans to protect their empire from barbarian tribes in Scotland. Dating back to AD 124, this cavalry fort, known as Cilurnum to the Romans, housed some 500 soldiers and witnessed the ebb and flow of ancient empires. The fort was occupied by the Romans for over 300 years, until the 5th century AD. It was only in the 19th century that excavations unveiled various structures and a treasure trove of inscriptions, sculptures, pottery, jewelry and weapons. While remanants survived from various periods, all the gates, the baths and much of the headquarters are from the reign of Hadrian. The fort is now a museum and it is one of the most important archaeological sites in Britain. Since the Roman period, only the lowest parts of the walls have survived stone-robbing and ploughing. Concealed beneath the earth, the majority of the fort's structures remain untouched, preserving the mysteries of the past.
Chesters Roman Fort Architecture
Explore the remarkable architecture of Chesters Roman Fort & Museum, an extraordinary structure that blends Roman and Celtic styles seamlessly. The towering walls constructed with red Roman bricks exude strength, while the grey stone pillars add a touch of Celtic elegance. It also resembles a traditional Roman army camp, complete with the classic rectangular design. The grandeur of Chesters Roman Fort & Museum is matched only by the intelligence of its design, as it functions as a well-equipped center for defense, administration and residency. As you step inside, you'll encounter a symphony of arches, vaulted ceilings and circular columns, displaying the mastery of Roman architectural techniques. The intricately carved inscriptions whisper tales of a bygone era, while the carved inscriptions on the walls and columns indicate that the fort has been built and renovated over several centuries.
Highlights of Chesters Roman Fort
1The Roman Bathhouse
The Bathhouse at Chester's Roman Fort is one of the best-preserved Roman bathhouses in Britain. It was built in the 2nd century AD and is still in remarkably good condition. You can see the hot and cold baths, the steam room and the changing rooms.
2The Museum
The museum at Chesters Roman Fort houses a collection of Roman artifacts found at the site. These include sculptures, pottery, jewelry, and weapons. The museum also has a number of interactive exhibits that help you learn about Roman life.
3Hadrian's Wall
Chesters Roman Fort is located on Hadrian's Wall, which was built by the Romans in the 2nd century AD to defend the Roman Empire. You can walk along the wall and see the remains of the forts and milecastles that were built along it.
4Views of River North Tyne
Enjoy the stunning views of the meandering River North Tyne, which flows alongside Chesters Roman Fort. This also gives visitors an insight into the strategic importance of the location during the Roman era. Truly an experience that blends ancient history and natural beauty.
Best Time to Visit Chesters Roman Fort
The best time to visit Chesters Roman Fort is during the spring or summer seasons (from April to September). The weather is pleasant, and it's not too hot or cold. You can enjoy exploring the fort and museum without any worries of rain or snow. It is also recommended to visit in the morning hours as it tends to get crowded in the afternoon. Enjoy your visit!
Chesters Roman Fort Opening Hours
- Timings: 10 AM to 5 PM
- During off-season, the fort remains open only during the weekends mostly and it closes earlier, at 4 PM.
- Closures: Weekdays during off-season, Christmas Eve & Christmas Day
Getting There
Bus
The AD122 Hadrian's Wall Country Bus follows a scenic route that passes by a couple of other attractions such as Housesteads & Vindolanda Roman forts, the Sill, and more.
Train
Hexham Train Station is located just 5.5 miles away from the fort and serves as a convenient starting point for your journey. You can then catch the AD122 Hadrian's Wall bus from here, available between April and October.
Car
Starting from Hexham, follow the A69 road eastward and you'll eventually reach the turnoff for Chesters by following the signposts. There are 60 car parking spaces at the fort, with four being reserved as disabled spaces.
Insider Tips to Visit Chesters Roman Fort
- Visit during off-peak hours, such as weekdays and early mornings to avoid the crowds.
- Bring comfortable footwear as the museum requires a lot of walking.
- Take a picnic and enjoy the beautiful gardens surrounding the Fort in the summer.
- Grab a souvenir from the on-site gift shop to remember your trip.
- Be sure to catch the breathtaking views of the River Tyne from the Fort's observation points.
Chesters Roman Fort Facts
- Chesters Roman Fort is the most complete Roman cavalry fort in Britain.
- The fort was strategically located on the northern bank of the River Tyne, allowing the Romans to control and monitor movement across the river.
- It housed a garrison of around 500 Roman soldiers who were primarily responsible for maintaining peace and security in the region.
- The fort's original timber structures were later replaced with stone buildings, showcasing the Romans' architectural prowess and commitment to long-term fortification.
- Chesters Roman Fort is home to one of the best-preserved Roman bath complexes in Britain.
- The fort's location made it a vital hub for the Roman military, serving as a supply base and administrative center for the surrounding forts and milecastles along Hadrian's Wall.
- Chesters Roman Fort also housed a vibrant civilian settlement, where families of soldiers and traders lived, creating a thriving community within the fort's protective walls.
Restaurants Near Chesters Roman Fort
Indulge your taste buds at The Riverside Kitchen, renowned for its heavenly quiches and delightful assortment of tray bakes, cakes, pies, and scones. With generous portions and a range of thirst-quenching beverages, you can savor these treats while enjoying the scenic view of the River Tyne from both indoor and outdoor seating options.
Set out on a culinary adventure at Restaurant Hjem. From delightful snacks to delectable desserts, every bite surprises with intriguing flavor combinations and locally sourced Northumbrian ingredients. The impeccable wine pairings complement the exquisite dishes, while the relaxed atmosphere and attentive service ensure a memorable dining experience.
Explore the culinary delights of The Crown Inn, a charming country pub. With generous portions at fair prices, their excellent food won't disappoint. Enjoy a wide selection of ales and beers while being attended to by friendly staff. Relax indoors or in the inviting outdoor seating area. A warm welcome awaits.
Places to Stay Near Chesters Roman Fort
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Mid-range Stays
Things to Do Near Chesters Roman Fort
Hadrian's Wall is a UNESCO World Heritage Site that stretches for 73 miles along the border between England and Scotland. It was built by the Romans in the 2nd century AD to defend the Roman Empire. You can walk or cycle along the wall, and there are a number of forts and milecastles that you can visit.
This is one of the best-preserved Roman forts on Hadrian's Wall. Just 4 miles from Chesters Roman Fort, explore its well-preserved ruins, barracks, and remnants of the ancient bathhouse. Immerse yourself in the rich history of Roman occupation as you wander through this fascinating fort.
Walltown Crags are a series of cliffs that run along Hadrian's Wall. They offer stunning views of the surrounding countryside. Wander along the edge, while numerous viewpoints invite you to pause, soak in the scenery, and create lasting memories amidst this natural marvel.
Visit the Sycamore Gap along Hadrian's Wall, where a striking sycamore tree gracefully emerges through the ancient stone barrier. Captivating photographers and nature lovers alike, this picturesque site offers a unique blend of natural beauty and historical intrigue.
Discover Birdoswald Roman Fort, an impeccably preserved gem along Hadrian's Wall. Just 10 miles from Chesters, wander amidst ancient history as you explore barracks, the bathhouse, and granaries. Immerse yourself in the fascinating remnants of Roman military life at this archaeological site.
FAQs
Chesters Roman Fort was built around 123 AD, making it over 1,900 years old as of now.
The fort was constructed by the Roman Empire, under the order of Emperor Hadrian, as part of the defensive system along Hadrian's Wall in Northern England.
Chesters Roman Fort covers an area of approximately five acres, encompassing the fort's walls, buildings, and various structures within its boundaries.
For those traveling from Hexham, the AD122 Hadrian's Wall bus is a popular and convenient option, running between April and October. Alternatively, driving there offers flexibility and accessibility.
Chesters Roman Fort is closed during the weekdays in off-season and during Christmas Eve and Christmas Day.
Yes, there is a tearoom, where you can savor local ingredients in light lunches, delightful sweet treats, and refreshing hot/cold drinks. Don't miss the authentic Northumbrian experience with our traditional stotties.
Yes, there are washroom facilities available at Chesters Roman Fort for visitors' convenience.
There is no specific dress code to visit Chesters Roman Fort. However, it is recommended to wear comfortable clothing and footwear suitable for exploring historical sites and potentially uneven terrain.
