Roman Sites to visit in the Cotswolds

At the time of the Roman invasion in AD 43, the Cotswolds, Bristol, Gloucestershire, and much of Somerset were controlled by the Dobunni Tribe, a tribe influenced by Belgic immigrants but largely composed of non-Belgic people. Around AD 20, the Dobunni began issuing inscribed coins, revealing the names of their kings and providing insight into the political landscape leading up to the Roman conquest.

Shortly before the invasion, the Dobunni were ruled by two kings, likely indicating a division of their territory. Boduocus, the ruler of Gloucestershire, appeared pro-Roman, evidenced by his coinage and early submission to Emperor Claudius. Meanwhile, Corio…, who controlled the southern Dobunni lands, was more aligned with the Catuvellauni Tribe, one of Rome’s main opponents. When Caratacus and Togodumnus of the Catuvellauni expanded westward around AD 41, Boduocus’s kingdom may have become a tributary state.

Roman Invasion and Military Activity

As Roman forces advanced from Richborough (Rutupiae) Roman Fort , a faction known as the “Bodunni” quickly negotiated peace—likely Boduocus’s Dobunni. His alliance with Rome allowed his kingdom to retain its identity, later forming the civitas of the Dobunni, while Corio’s lands were absorbed into the civitas of the Belgae.

In AD 43-44, the Legio II Augusta, under the future emperor Vespasian, launched a rapid campaign in southwestern Britain. Roman forces engaged two hostile tribes, likely the Durotriges of Dorset and Wiltshire and Corio’s faction of the Dobunni. The Legio II Augusta, led by Vespasian, pushed westward, securing the region with a network of forts, roads, and supply depots. Over twenty hill-forts were captured, including South Cadbury, Worlebury Camp, and Ham Hill.

To secure their newly conquered territory, the Romans established a network of forts and settlements across Gloucestershire and the Cotswolds, many of which later evolved into thriving towns. One of the most significant was Cirencester (Corinium Dobunnorum), which began as a military fort but grew into the second-largest city in Roman Britain. It became a major administrative and commercial hub, featuring a basilica, an amphitheater, and extensive trade networks. Another key settlement was Gloucester (Colonia Glevum) , founded as a colonia for retired Roman soldiers under Emperor Nerva (AD 96-98). Situated along the River Severn, its strategic location made it an important military and economic center.

Meanwhile, Charterhouse Settlement, in the Mendip Hills, functioned as a crucial military post overseeing lead and silver mining, ensuring Rome’s access to valuable resources. Beyond Gloucestershire, Dorchester (Durnovaria) was another significant Roman center, playing an important administrative role in the region.

The Fort at Sea Mills and Naval Support

A small Roman fort and naval base were likely established at Sea Mills (Abona) Roman Port, strategically positioned at the mouth of the River Trym. Though direct evidence is limited, Claudian coins and pottery, along with Roman finds at Aust, indicate naval operations in the Severn Estuary. Similar naval support bases were established at Fishbourne, Poole Harbour (Hamworthy) , and Topsham, suggesting a coordinated effort to supply the advancing legions.

Fosse Way Frontier

These forts were interconnected by a well-developed road network were likely part of a broader frontier system developed under Aulus Plautius, the Roman general leading the invasion. The The Fosse Way, a key Roman road, would later play a crucial role in securing the region and maintaining Roman control over the Dobunni lands. These roads facilitated the rapid movement of troops, supplies, and trade goods, strengthening Roman control over the region and integrating it into the broader empire.

Roman Towns and Villas of the Cotswolds

The growth of Roman Bath, known as Aquae Sulis, is a testament to the Romans’ ability to blend engineering, religion, and leisure into a thriving urban center. Established in the 1st century AD around the natural hot springs, the settlement quickly became a focal point for both locals and visitors, drawn by the healing properties of the waters and the grand temple dedicated to the goddess Sulis Minerva. The Romans constructed an impressive complex, including the iconic bathhouse, which featured sophisticated systems for heating, plumbing, and water management, showcasing their advanced engineering skills. Over time, Aquae Sulis grew into a bustling town, complete with temples, shops, and residential areas, serving as a hub of religious, social, and economic activity.

The Cotswolds and Gloucestershire were home to numerous Roman villas, reflecting the region’s prosperity under Roman rule. These villas, often luxurious rural estates, served as centers of agriculture, trade, and elite Roman life. Many featured mosaic floors, hypocaust heating systems, bathhouses, and courtyards, showcasing Roman architectural influence. Notable examples include Chedworth Roman Villa, one of the best-preserved in Britain, which boasts intricate mosaics and sophisticated bathhouses, and Woodchester Roman Villa, famous for its enormous and highly detailed mosaic pavement. Other villas, such as those at North Leigh Villa and Great Witcombe Roman VillaGreat Witcombe Roman Villa[/link_post, provide further evidence of wealthy Roman landowners managing large agricultural estates.

Cirencester (Corinium Dobunnorum)

Visiting Cirencester, once known as Corinium Dobunnorum, offers a fascinating glimpse into Roman Britain. As the second-largest city in Roman Britain after Londinium, Cirencester was a major administrative and commercial hub. Today, visitors can explore its rich Roman heritage at the Corinium Museum, which houses an impressive collection of mosaics, sculptures, and everyday artifacts that reveal the city’s past. The remains of the Roman amphitheater, located on the outskirts of the town, provide insight into the entertainment and social life of the period. Walking through Cirencester, you can also see traces of the ancient city layout, including sections of the original Roman walls.

Beyond its Roman past, Cirencester is a charming market town with a blend of history and modern culture. The town’s medieval church, quaint streets, and vibrant marketplace make it an enjoyable destination for visitors interested in more than just its ancient past. The Abbey Grounds, once home to a medieval monastery, offer a peaceful setting to relax and reflect on the town’s long history. Whether you’re exploring Roman ruins, admiring historic architecture, or enjoying the lively shops and cafés, Cirencester provides a well-rounded historical experience in the heart of the Cotswolds.

Gloucester (Colonia Glevum)

Gloucester, known in Roman times as Colonia Glevum, is a historic city in southwest England that offers a fascinating blend of ancient history and modern charm. Founded as a Roman fort in the 1st century AD, it later became a colonia, a settlement for retired Roman soldiers, and played a significant role in the region’s military and economic activities. Visitors can explore remnants of its Roman past, such as sections of the original city walls and the impressive Gloucester Cathedral, which stands on the site of a former Roman temple. The city’s rich history is also reflected in its medieval architecture, including the iconic Gloucester Docks, a testament to its importance as a trading hub during the Industrial Revolution.

Today, Gloucester is a vibrant destination that seamlessly combines its historical heritage with contemporary attractions. The cathedral, famous for its stunning Gothic architecture and as a filming location for the Harry Potter movies, is a must-see. The city also boasts a lively cultural scene, with museums, galleries, and festivals celebrating its Roman and medieval roots. The Quays shopping area and the rejuvenated docks offer a mix of dining, shopping, and leisure activities, while the nearby Cotswolds provide a picturesque escape into the English countryside. Whether you’re a history enthusiast or simply looking for a charming city to explore, Gloucester offers a unique and memorable experience.

Sea Mills (Abona) Roman Port

Sea Mills, known in Roman times as Abona, was an important Roman port situated on the River Avon near modern-day Bristol. Established during the 1st century AD, Abona served as a vital link in the Roman trade and transport network, connecting the region to other parts of Roman Britain and beyond. The port facilitated the movement of goods such as grain, metals, and pottery, which were transported along the River Avon and connected to the broader Roman road system. Archaeological evidence suggests that Abona was a bustling hub of activity, with warehouses, wharves, and possibly a small settlement to support the trade and commerce that flowed through the port. Its strategic location made it a key economic asset for the Romans in southwestern Britain.

Today, the remains of Abona are less visible, but the site holds significant historical importance for understanding Roman Britain’s maritime and trade networks. Visitors to the area can explore the nearby Blaise Castle Estate, which houses a museum with artifacts from the Roman period, including items recovered from the Abona site. The port’s legacy is also reflected in the modern development of the Sea Mills area, where traces of Roman roads and infrastructure have been uncovered over the years. For those interested in Roman history, a visit to Sea Mills offers a chance to imagine the bustling activity of this ancient port and its role in shaping the region’s history. The combination of historical intrigue and the scenic beauty of the River Avon makes it a fascinating destination for history enthusiasts.

Bath (Aquae Sulis)

This well-preserved site once served as a complex of public baths and a temple dedicated to the goddess Sulis Minerva. The warm waters that flow through the Roman Baths have been used for centuries, and as you explore the site, you can see the Great Bath, which is fed by natural hot springs, as well as the intricate Roman architecture and historic artifacts. The ancient Romans were known for their advanced engineering, and the site highlights their remarkable ability to harness geothermal energy for leisure and healing.

Beyond the physical baths, the museum offers a deeper look into Roman life, with displays of statues, coins, and tools, providing insight into the people who visited the baths centuries ago. You can also see the beautifully preserved Roman temple ruins and the quiet waters of the Sacred Spring, where people once threw offerings. The combination of historical significance, stunning architecture, and the atmosphere of relaxation makes the Roman Baths a must-see destination for anyone interested in the Roman Empire or ancient culture.

Roman Charterhouse Settlement

The Roman Charterhouse Settlement, located near the village of Charterhouse-on-Mendip in Somerset, England, is a remarkable archaeological site that offers a glimpse into the Roman exploitation of natural resources in Britain. Established during the Roman occupation, the settlement was primarily a mining community, focused on extracting lead and silver from the Mendip Hills. The Romans recognized the value of these resources and developed a sophisticated infrastructure to support mining operations, including roads, aqueducts, and processing facilities. The site also features the remains of a small amphitheater, believed to have been used for both entertainment and military training, highlighting the cultural and social aspects of Roman life in this remote outpost.

Visiting the Charterhouse Settlement today provides a unique opportunity to explore the industrial and domestic life of Roman Britain. The site is part of a larger network of Roman remains in the Mendip Hills, including the nearby Roman road and the lead mines, which are among the oldest in the country. The settlement’s remote location, surrounded by the natural beauty of the Mendip Hills, adds to its allure, offering visitors a chance to step back in time while enjoying the scenic landscape. Although much of the settlement lies buried, ongoing archaeological work continues to uncover new insights into this fascinating chapter of Roman history, making it a must-visit for history enthusiasts and those interested in the industrial heritage of ancient Britain.

Lydney Park Temple

Lydney, located in Gloucestershire, is home to a British Iron Age promontory fort, Lydney Camp, covering 4.5 acres. The Romans mined iron ore in the area in the 3rd century AD, though they abandoned the site due to unproductive results. Open-cast iron mines and tunnels, known as scowles, are still visible on the hill.

In the late 4th century, the Romans built a Romano-Celtic temple to Nodens, a Celtic god associated with healing, reflected in Irish and Welsh mythology. The temple, unusual for its rectangular shape and tripartite cella, had walls that collapsed due to a fault in the rock but were later rebuilt. The site also featured a courtyard guest house, dormitory building, and bath suite. Excavations in the 1920s and 1980s revealed several finds, including a hoard of imitation Roman coins, and an appendix on the name “Nodens” by J.R.R. Tolkien.

Chedworth Roman Villa

Chedworth Roman Villa, nestled in the picturesque Cotswolds countryside in Gloucestershire, is one of the largest and most well-preserved Roman villas in Britain. Dating back to the 2nd century AD, this grand villa was once a luxurious rural residence, likely owned by a wealthy Romano-British family. The site boasts an impressive array of features, including intricate mosaic floors, hypocaust underfloor heating systems, bathhouses, and even a water shrine dedicated to the nymphs. These elements highlight the sophistication and opulence of Roman life in Britain, showcasing the villa’s role as both a family home and a center of agricultural and economic activity. The villa’s layout, with its courtyards, dining rooms, and living quarters, provides a fascinating insight into the daily lives of its inhabitants.

Today, Chedworth Roman Villa is managed by the National Trust and is a popular destination for history enthusiasts and visitors alike. The site includes a museum displaying artifacts such as pottery, coins, and tools discovered during excavations, offering a deeper understanding of Roman Britain. The villa’s stunning mosaics, some of which are still in situ, are a particular highlight, as are the reconstructed sections of the hypocaust system. The surrounding woodland and walking trails add to the charm of the visit, making it a perfect blend of history and natural beauty. Chedworth Roman Villa is not only a testament to Roman engineering and artistry but also a captivating window into the lives of those who lived and worked there nearly two millennia ago.

Woodchester Roman Villa

Woodchester Roman Villa, located near Stroud in Gloucestershire, is one of the most significant Roman archaeological sites in Britain, renowned for its exceptionally well-preserved and intricate mosaic floors. Dating back to the 4th century AD, this grand villa was a luxurious rural estate, likely owned by a wealthy Romano-British family, and showcases the height of Roman craftsmanship and domestic architecture. The villa’s most famous feature is the Orpheus mosaic, a stunning and elaborate floor depicting the mythological figure Orpheus surrounded by intricate geometric patterns and animal motifs. Although much of the villa remains buried and is only occasionally excavated to preserve its delicate remains, its scale and sophistication highlight the wealth and cultural influence of Roman Britain. Managed by English Heritage, Woodchester Roman Villa offers visitors a rare glimpse into the opulent lifestyle of its ancient inhabitants and the artistic achievements of the Roman era.

North Leigh Villa

North Leigh Roman Villa, located in Oxfordshire, is one of the largest and most impressive Roman villas discovered in Britain, offering a fascinating glimpse into rural Roman life. Dating back to the 1st century AD, the villa evolved over time from a modest farmstead into a grand and luxurious residence by the 4th century, complete with intricate mosaic floors, bathhouses, and underfloor heating systems. The villa’s layout, which includes multiple courtyards, living quarters, and agricultural buildings, reflects its dual role as both a family home and a center of farming and industry. Excavations have revealed evidence of its wealth and sophistication, including high-quality pottery and decorative artifacts, underscoring the status of its occupants. Today, managed by English Heritage, the site is open to the public, allowing visitors to explore the remains of this once-thriving estate and imagine the daily lives of its inhabitants nearly two millennia ago.

Great Witcombe Roman Villa

Great Witcombe Roman Villa, nestled in the scenic Cotswold Hills near Gloucester, is a remarkable example of a luxurious Roman country residence. Dating back to the early 3rd century AD, this villa was built on a grand scale, featuring intricate mosaic floors, a sophisticated bathhouse complex, and underfloor heating systems, all of which highlight the wealth and status of its occupants. The villa’s location, overlooking a tranquil valley, would have provided both beauty and practicality, with easy access to natural resources and trade routes. Over time, the villa expanded to include additional rooms and courtyards, reflecting the prosperity of its owners. Today, managed by English Heritage, the site offers visitors a chance to explore the remains of this once-opulent estate, including its well-preserved bathhouse and fragments of its stunning mosaics. Surrounded by picturesque countryside, Great Witcombe Roman Villa is a captivating destination for those interested in Roman history and the luxurious lifestyles of Britain’s ancient elite.

Keynsham Villa

The Keynsham Roman Villa refers to a group of villas built during the Roman occupation of Britain, located near Keynsham in Somerset, England. Two villas have been discovered, with the larger one believed to be among the most impressive villas ever constructed in Britain. However, the full excavation of these sites has not been completed, partly due to sections being situated beneath a cemetery, a major road, and the former Somerdale Chocolate Factory, which is now closed.

Mosaic panels from the Dursley Hill villa are displayed under glass at the Keynsham Civic Centre/Library.

Kings Weston Villa

Kings Weston Roman Villa is located in Lawrence Weston, in the northwest of Bristol. The villa was uncovered during the construction of the Lawrence Weston housing estate in 1947. Two distinct buildings, the Eastern and Western, were identified. The Eastern building was fully excavated between 1948 and 1950, while the Western building remains largely beneath Long Cross road. Artifacts from the site are now housed in the Bristol City Museum and Art Gallery.

At Kings Weston Roman Villa, visitors can view the only Roman bath suite in Bristol, along with two original 3rd-century mosaic floors, and learn about Roman central heating. The villa is open to the public during special events and on open days. At other times, visitors can obtain a key from Blaise Castle or the Bristol City Museum and Art Gallery.