Which locations in the UK are best for learning about Roman history?

Roman history is a fascinating subject, which provides a window into the ancient past. The Romans were a force to be reckoned with, whose influence shaped many aspects of the world we know today. Their presence in Britain, in particular, had a profound impact on the country's culture, infrastructure, and architecture. As such, there are myriad locations across the UK that bear the mark of this bygone era, from the great city walls they built to the iconic forts and villas that remain. So, if you’re looking to delve into the annals of Roman history, where should you go in the UK? Let's discover together, starting from the bustling capital, London.

London: The Heart of Roman Britain

When you think about London, the busy streets, the iconic landmarks and the cosmopolitan atmosphere might come to mind. But beneath this vibrant modern city lie traces of its ancient past. London, or Londinium as it was known, was a significant settlement during the Roman era. The site was established around the mid-1st century AD, swiftly becoming an important commercial and administrative centre.

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The Museum of London is a treasure trove of Roman artefacts and remains, chronicling the city's history from its inception to the present day. Here, you can see a slice of Roman London, including the wall they built to fortify their city. Another key site to visit is the London Wall, a defensive structure built by the Romans around AD 200. Despite centuries of change, significant portions of this wall remain, a testament to the mastery of Roman engineers.

Bath: A Taste of Roman Luxury

Heading west from London, another city steeped in Roman history awaits. Founded by the Romans as a thermal spa, Bath was known as Aquae Sulis. It was a place of leisure and relaxation, where Romans could enjoy the natural hot springs and the grandeur of the Roman Baths.

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The Roman Baths themselves have been remarkably preserved, offering an in-depth look into the Romans' bathing culture. The site also features a museum with a collection of Roman artefacts discovered in Bath. You can even taste the waters that the Romans once bathed in, which are believed to have healing properties.

Hadrian's Wall: A Monument to Roman Power

Further north, spanning the width of England, lies one of the most iconic remnants of Roman Britain: Hadrian's Wall. This fortification, constructed during the reign of Emperor Hadrian in the 2nd century AD, was a symbol of Roman power and a mark of the empire's northern frontier.

Today, Hadrian's Wall is a UNESCO World Heritage site and a popular destination for history buffs and hikers alike. Several forts along the wall, such as Housesteads and Vindolanda, offer insight into the life of Roman soldiers. The latter is home to the Vindolanda Museum, where you can see a variety of Roman artefacts, including the Vindolanda Tablets, one of the most important discoveries of Roman Britain.

Fishbourne Roman Palace: A Glimpse into Roman Aristocracy

Located in the south of England, Fishbourne Roman Palace is one of the largest Roman domestic sites discovered in the country. Built in the 1st century AD, it was likely the residence of a high-ranking Roman official, possibly even a member of the royal family.

The palace is renowned for its stunning mosaic floors, some of the earliest and most complete examples in Britain. The on-site museum also houses a collection of Roman artefacts found at Fishbourne, such as pottery, coins, and jewellery, giving an insight into the luxurious lifestyle of the Roman elite.

Lullingstone Roman Villa: A Display of Roman Faith

Last but not least, Lullingstone Roman Villa is a site that provides a unique perspective on Roman religion and culture. This villa, located in Kent, was built around AD 100, and it remained in use for over 300 years.

Among the villa's most intriguing features is the Roman temple-mausoleum, one of the few known from Roman Britain. It offers a glimpse into the Roman's spiritual beliefs and practices. The villa also boasts some impressive mosaics and a heated bath-suite, showcasing the sophistication and refinement of Roman architecture.

Whether you're a history enthusiast or a casual traveller, these locations offer a chance to step back in time and immerse yourself in Roman history. From the bustling heart of Londinium to the opulence of Fishbourne Palace, each site holds a unique piece of the Roman Britain narrative. As you explore these remnants of the past, you'll gain a deeper understanding of the Romans' impact on Britain and how their legacy continues to shape the country today.

Antonine Wall: The Forgotten Frontier

Moving further north within the confines of Scotland, we find the lesser-known, but equally fascinating, Antonine Wall. Often overshadowed by its more famous counterpart, Hadrian's Wall, the Antonine Wall was the furthest reach of the mighty Roman Empire into the British Isles.

Constructed under the orders of Emperor Antoninus Pius in the mid-2nd century AD, this fortification was intended to offer a stronger, more northerly frontier than Hadrian's Wall. However, it was abandoned after only two decades of use, making it a temporary, yet significant part of Roman Britain's history.

Despite being constructed primarily of turf and wood, rather than stone, remnants of the Antonine Wall can still be seen today. It stretches roughly 60 kilometres from Old Kilpatrick in the west to Carriden in the east. The wall, along with its system of forts, camps, and watchtowers, provides valuable insights into Roman military strategies and the daily life of Roman soldiers.

Make sure to visit the Hunterian Museum in Glasgow, which houses a vast collection of Roman artefacts discovered along the Antonine Wall. Among the most notable pieces are the distance slabs, stone markers that provide a record of the wall's construction and the legions involved.

Roman Roads: Connecting the Empire

The Romans are renowned for many things, and their proficiency in building roads is certainly one of them. The network of Roman roads spread across the UK was a feat of engineering and a symbol of the Empire's might and organisation. These roads not only facilitated the movement of troops and supplies but also helped to integrate and administer the vast Roman Empire.

In Britain, the Roman road system connected cities, towns, military bases, and important strategic locations, enabling the Romans to control their territory effectively. One of the most well-known Roman roads in the UK is the Fosse Way, which stretches for nearly 370 kilometres from the Roman city of Exeter to Lincoln. Other notable routes include Ermine Street, which connected London to York, and Watling Street, linking London to Viroconium (modern Wroxeter).

While much of the original Roman road network has been built over or lost, some portions remain and are still in use today. Walking along these ancient routes can provide a tangible connection to the past and an appreciation for the Romans' ingenuity.

The Roman occupation of Britain has left an indelible mark on the country's landscape and culture. From the remnants of London's ancient city walls to the grandeur of Bath's hot springs, the forts along Hadrian's Wall and Antonine Wall, the luxurious Fishbourne Palace, and the sacred Lullingstone Villa, the spirit of Roman Britain continues to resonate.

The UK is a treasure trove of Roman history, offering countless opportunities to delve into the past. Whether you're exploring the fortifications along the northern frontier, strolling through the ruins of a Roman villa, or tracing the ancient routes of Roman roads, the history of the Roman Empire in Britain is a testament to their enduring legacy.

Each site and artefact tells a unique story – of conquest, of culture, and of a time when the Roman eagle ruled the skies of Britannia. So, whether you're a seasoned historian or a curious traveller, a journey into Roman Britain promises to be an enlightening and exciting adventure!