Family-friendly things to do at Chedworth Roman Villa

Dress-up at Chedworth Roman Villa | © James Ball

Chedworth Roman Villa is a fantastic family day out, packed with things to see and do. Enjoy seasonal trails, dressing‑up, games, crafts, storytelling, archaeological activities and the chance to meet Roman characters.

Roman Crafts Weekend

26 & 27 September

Watch skilled artisans bring the crafts of Roman Britain to life with spinning, dyeing, weaving, toolmaking and jewellery-making demonstrations. Enjoy fascinating live displays or have a go trying an ancient skill for yourself.

Find out more about Chedworth's Roman Crafts Weekend.

'Ghosts of Roman Britain'

1 October - 1 November

Step into a shadowy world of restless spirits and cryptic prophecies at Chedworth this autumn with 'Ghosts of Roman Britain': a whole month of spooky activities uncovering Roman beliefs about death and the afterlife.

Find out more about this autumn's Ghosts of Roman Britain.

All activities are included with normal admission.

'Roman Ghost Investigator' half-term challenge

24 October - 1 November

Part of 'Ghosts of Roman Britain' month, this new family-friendly challenge is an additional activity that runs through the half-term holiday.

Become a Roman Ghost Investigator, carry out a series of tasks, complete the quest and help the six restless spirits at Chedworth pass to the afterlife.

Find out more about the Roman Ghost Investigator half-term challenge.

All activities are included with normal admission.

A pair of stained blue hands pulling a freshly-dyed skein of blue wool from a caldron — Watch Roman crafts brought to life | © Kit Helme

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 4th century villa life may have been like.

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.

Free Tour Mondays

Suitable for families with oder children, we run free guided tours of the villa run every Monday from early March to late 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.

Younger children may like our audio guide with Pom the Roman snail.

Back in June 2027 for Father's Day: Chedworth Gladiator weekend

Join us again next June 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.

Plan your family visit

Here's information to help you make the most of your family day out at Chedworth Roman Villa.

Baby changing facilities are available in the Salway Room and Visitor Reception.
Buggies are welcome but please be aware that there are some uneven surfaces around the Villa.
There is a range of wet weather activities in the Learning Pavilion.
Drinks, snacks and light lunches are available from the café.
Indoor and outdoor seating areas and picnic benches in the grounds.
Children's audio guide available. Included with normal entry.
As we are an active archaeological site, only assistance dogs are allowed on the property.