Festival of Archaeology - Chedworth Roman Villa

Where the Roman Story Did Not End When Rome Did

Most Roman villas in Britain were abandoned by the early 5th century, when Roman rule formally ended in 410 AD. Chedworth tells a different story. In 2020, archaeologists working here uncovered the only known 5th-century mosaic in Britain — a floor laid generations after the legions had gone, in a building that someone still had the wealth and the craftsmen to commission. The Festival of Archaeology, running through July, is the annual chance to get close to that kind of discovery.

Chedworth is one of the largest Roman villas yet found in Britain, with mosaic floors in at least 15 rooms. During the festival fortnight, the National Trust opens up the site with expert talks on current research projects, demonstrations of archaeological techniques, and artefact handling sessions where you can pick up genuine Roman objects — mosaic fragments, pottery, jewellery, roofing tile — with volunteers on hand to talk through what you are holding.

There is also a family trail running throughout, with hands-on archaeology stations, puzzles, and dress-up for younger visitors.

Admission includes entry to the villa. Festival activities run daily 10am to 5pm from 18 July to 2 August.

Saturday 18 July to Sunday 2 August 2026 · Chedworth Roman Villa, Yanworth, Cheltenham GL54 3LJ · 10:00am–5:00pm