Family-friendly things to do at Chedworth Roman Villa

Gladiator weekend: 20-21 June

Join us for a thrilling weekend of gladiator training and combat. Learn basic combat techniques at Gladiator School, watch warriors clash in exciting demonstrations, and uncover the real stories behind these legendary fighters. Between performances, meet the gladiators, see their weapons and armour, and discover more about life in Roman Britain. All activities included with normal admission.

For more information visit Gladiator Weekend at Chedworth.

Summer of Play the Roman Way: 18 July-31 August

Step into summer at Chedworth and discover how Roman families played in our action-packed Summer of Play that's full of hands‑on fun for all ages.

Challenge each other with ancient games like Rota, race in the 'chariot arena', and enjoy giant games and puzzles. Try hoop rolling or test your aim with a playful Roman‑inspired pot shot.

All activities are included with normal admission. Find out more about Summer of Play the Roman Way

Meet Chedworth's Roman characters

During school holidays and bank holiday weekends, keep an eye out for Chedworth’s colourful Roman characters. Meet Censorinus, the proud villa owner; Dr Quintus, who will both amaze and horrify with tales of Roman medicine and surgery; Appian, the skilled mosaicist; and Sabina, who brings to life the daily duties caring for the mistress of the Villa. You can also meet Thomas Margetts and James Farrer, who share the fascinating story of Chedworth’s discovery and excavation in 1864.

Dressing up, games and puzzles

Whatever the weather, there’s plenty to enjoy on a family day out at Chedworth. Dress up in Roman costumes and strike a pose, challenge each other to a game of Rota, try mosaic‑themed puzzles, test your Roman numerals, or create your own designs with our magnetic mosaics.

During the holidays, the lawns come alive with even more to explore. Take on the giant Nine Men’s Morris board, or work together to complete a large puzzle of Winter, the iconic figure from Chedworth’s Grand Dining Room mosaic. You’ll also find giant building blocks, skipping ropes, hoops and hopscotch - perfect for active family fun.

Explore the collection

The Victorian lodge in the centre of the site houses a small museum filled with fascinating finds from Chedworth. Discover Roman hairpins, jewellery, coins and statues, and gain a glimpse into what life may have been like at the villa in the 4th century.

Free Tour Mondays

Free guided tours of the villa run every Monday until October. Join our knowledgeable guides to uncover why the villa was built here, who may have owned it, and how this luxurious lifestyle was sustained. You’ll also hear the story of its discovery and learn what recent excavations have revealed about life at Chedworth.