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Festival of Archaeology at Chedworth Roman Villa

Unearth the past through hands-on activities, living history and historic characters with something new to discover every day.

  • Booking not needed
  • Free event (admission applies)

Join us this summer as we bring archaeology to life with the Festival of Archaeology. Across two weeks, discover Roman life and the history of the site through a changing programme of archaeological activities, demonstrations, and living history characters.

What you might discover:

* Roman Cooking & Bread Making – See how food was prepared in the Roman world and explore ancient ingredients and techniques. 18th/19th/24th/30th/1st

* Corn Grinding – Try your hand at processing grain the Roman way. 18th/19th/24th/30th/1st

* Natural Wool Dyeing – Learn how colour was created using plants and natural materials. 21st/22nd

* Living History Crafts & Archaeology – Meet skilled craftspeople and explore how we uncover the past. 18th/19th

* Grand Dining Room Cleaning – Conservation in action. See how we care for and conserve this important space.

* The Lost Voices of Chedworth – Discover stories from the past through engaging talks and interpretation. 23rd/29th

Special event: Saturday 25 July – Join archaeologist Dr Martin Papworth for a special guided tours, sharing expert insights into the history and discoveries of the site.

Meet characters from the past:

* Dr Quintus – A knowledgeable Roman Doctor explains how the Romans used nature in medicine. 20th/26th/31st

* Flora, Roman Botanist – Discover the plants Romans used for food and daily life.

* James Farrer, Victorian Antiquarian – Step into the 19th century and learn about early discoveries at the site. 23rd/28th/29th

Times

Prices

Event ticket prices

This event is free, but normal admission charges apply for the venue.

Check admission prices

Contact info

Chedworth Roman Villa

Upcoming events

Snail Trail Adventure at Chedworth Roman Villa 

Discover the fascinating world of Helix Pomatia, the famous Roman Snail, at Chedworth Roman Villa this May half-term (23–31 May 2026).

Event summary

on
26 May to 31 May 2026
at 10:00 to 16:30+ 5 other dates or times

Free Tour Mondays at Chedworth Roman Villa 

Discover the stories behind this remarkable site with our expert guides.

Event summary

on
1 Jun to 26 Oct 2026
at 11:00 to 15:00+ 21 other dates or times

Gladiator Weekend at Chedworth Roman Villa 

Join us for a thrilling weekend of training and combat with the Gladiators.

Event summary

on
20 Jun to 21 Jun 2026
at 10:00 to 20:00+ 1 other date or time

Saturday Evening Special: Gladiators After Hours 

Explore the villa after hours, before settling in for a live evening 'Barbarian Attack' show.

Event summary

on
20 Jun 2026
at 17:00 to 20:30