2025 Festival of Archaeology at Chedworth Roman Villa
Join us for a programme of hands-on activities and expert insights into Roman Britain this Festival of Archaeology.
- Booking not needed
- Free event (admission applies)
* Touch genuine 1,800-year-old archaeological treasures including original mosaic pieces, Roman pottery, jewellery, tiles, and bones. Our volunteers will share the stories these objects tell about daily life in Roman Britain. Happening daily.
* Experience excavation for yourself. Pick up a trowel and discover what it feels like to uncover objects, just like professional archaeologists. Happening daily.
* Conservation in Action 21- 24 July & 28-31 July
Watch our conservation team clean the Grand Dining Room Mosaic, one of the finest in Britain. Chat with the team about their work and techniques.
* Rare Roman Coin Display - Saturday 19 & 26 July
View some of the rarest coins produced by the Roman Empire.
* After the Dig - Saturday 26 & Sunday 27 July
Discover what happens once artefacts are excavated. See how objects are cleaned, preserved, and recorded. Learn about the detective work that brings Roman Britain to life.
* Discovery Tours with Dr Martin Papworth – Saturday, 26 July
Renowned archaeologist Martin Papworth will lead tours sharing first-hand accounts of his discoveries at Chedworth. Hear about his excavation of Britain's only known 5th century mosaic, a discovery that changed our understanding of Roman Britain's final chapter. Learn about luxury finds including ancient glass from a perfume bottle and marble traced to the Emperor's Quarry in the Sea of Marmara. Martin will also discuss his latest research on the mysterious South Range.
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Event ticket prices
This event is free, but normal admission charges apply for the venue.
Check admission pricesUpcoming events
Cleaning the Grand Dining Room Mosaic
Come and see how we preserve one of the finest mosaics in the country
Touching History: Handle 1800-Year-Old Archaeological Treasures
This Festival of Archaeology, discover genuine and replica Roman artefacts at Chedworth Roman Villa. Objects range from original mosaic pieces that once decorated grand floors to everyday pottery that held Roman meals nearly two millennia ago....
Rare Roman Coin Display at Chedworth Roman Villa
Come and see some of the most important coins produced by the Roman Empire.
What happens after a dig?
Ever wondered what happens after archaeologists finish an excavation? Now's your chance to find out.