Family-friendly things to do at Chedworth Roman Villa

Children playing with garden games at Chedworth Roman Villa, Gloucestershire. | © National Trust Images/James Dobson

Chedworth Roman Villa is a fantastic place to visit with the family. You can play Roman board games, build mosaic-themed puzzles and enjoy a family picnic with incredible views over the Cotswold countryside. Several times throughout the year, you will be able to join fun-filled trails and engage in archaeological activities. You can also create your own mosaics, watch historical characters bring the past to life and dress up while your explore this ancient site.

Roman Snail Trail this half term

This May half term we will be celebrating Helix Pomatia, the Roman Snail. This snail is one of Britain's largest and is thought to have been brought here by the Romans as a source of food almost two thousand years ago.

Learn about the wonders of the snail, study its incredible shell, and play snail-inspired games and puzzles.

Planning your family visit

Baby changing facilities are available in the Salway Learning Room and Visitor Reception.
Buggies are welcome but please be aware that there are some uneven surfaces around the Villa.
As we are an active archaeological site, only assistance dogs are allowed on the property.

Games & Puzzles

There are several Roman-themed activities to get stuck into during a visit. You can hone your strategic skills with a game of Nine Men's Morris, tackle our challenging mosaic-themed puzzles, test your knowledge of Roman numerals or create your own fun patterns with our magnetic mosaics. During holiday periods, a giant Nine Men's Morris board is in action on the lawns along with a large puzzle of Winter, the iconic figure from Chedworth's Grand Dining Room mosaic, which is sure to test each family's teamwork skills. Giant building blocks, skipping ropes, hoops and hopscotch are also available during the holidays to add to the fun.

Dress up

Volunteers have designed a spectrum of Roman outfits that families can wear while they tour the Villa. These are available at selected times during holiday periods and can create the perfect photo moment.

Exploring the collection

The museum contains a collection of historically significant items found at Chedworth including Roman hairpins, jewellery, coins and statues. There is something to interest every member of the family. A game of 'I spy' is hosted in the museum several times a year.

Seasonal Trails & Activities

During holidays periods, families can experience a fun-filled trail or dive into active learning activities. Easter, the Festival of Archaeology, the Summer of Play and Half Term breaks are particularly popular.

Historical Characters

Chedworth Roman Villa has a whole cast of historical characters to entertain visitors at scheduled times throughout the year, so keep an eye on the website for details. Censorinus, the Villa owner, shares what it was like to live in one of the finest villas in the country while Dr Quintus takes you on a journey into surgery and medicine during Roman times. Gaia demonstrates ancient spinning, dyeing and weaving techniques and James Farrer tells the famous discovery and excavation story from 1864. A highlight of the calendar is when the Gladiators take over the Villa for Father's Day Weekend. Get ready for Gladiators shows, military displays and the chance to take on the dads in 'combat'.

Special Events

Keep an eye on the website for family-friendly events from talks, crafts and demonstrations, to storytelling, archaeological activities and immersive experiences.