Things to see and do at Chesters Roman Fort
There’s plenty to see and do on a day out at Chesters Roman Fort. Below we’ve included some of the highlights: don’t miss the bathhouse, the Victorian museum and the chance to stroll around a Roman fort. Chesters is also part of a longer trail exploring this part of Hadrian’s Wall: if a longer walk takes your fancy, read on to find out more.
Explore the Bathhouse
A place to relax on Hadrian's Wall for both Roman and modern visitors, Chesters Roman Fort and Museum is home to a spectacular Roman Bathhouse.
The tranquil riverside spa on the banks of the North Tyne would have been a relaxing and social environment for the weary Roman soldiers. The complex of rooms offered soldiers hot, cold and steam baths as well as a changing room-cum-clubhouse. Today it survives to above head-height, giving you an excellent impression of how it would have looked in Roman times.
Museum of Roman finds
Explore the museum at Chesters to discover exciting Roman finds, and learn about the 'saviour of the Wall', John Clayton.
A keen antiquarian, John Clayton (1792-1890), excavated many sites along Hadrian’s Wall, discovering hundreds of altars, pieces of jewellery and religious artefacts. These finds are cared for in the museum on behalf of the Trustees of the Clayton Collection.
The museum first opened in 1896. It still retains its traditional Victorian layout and atmosphere, but sensitive reordering and creative storytelling will help you explore its treasures.
Stroll around a Roman Cavalry Fort
Take a stroll through history around the fort and grounds that straddle Hadrian's Wall. Chesters housed a garrison of 500 cavalry troops here for about 300 years.
Today you can still see all four principal gates of the fort, the headquarters building and courtyard, hall and regimental shrine. Don't miss the ruins of an elaborate and luxurious commandant's house.
Treat yourself at the tearoom
Head to the tearoom at Chesters after your Roman adventure to relax and enjoy a light lunch made from local ingredients, sweet treats and hot and cold drinks. Try one of our traditional stotties for a truly Northumbrian experience.
There's seating inside and out so pull up a chair wherever suits you. Children's lunch boxes are available. We can cater for all dietary requirements but please call us in advance, on 01434 681379, to arrange this. Hungry hikers and cyclists are welcome to stop by too. Thank you! Every cuppa or tasty treat you buy helps the charity look after England’s heritage.
You can find allergen and nutritional information here.
Take the Chesters Roman Trail
If you fancy exploring further afield, you can take the Chesters Roman Trail.
This area is a relaxing and tranquil section of Hadrian's Wall country, located next to the North Tyne River. It's not hard to understand why the Romans settled here. As well as the bathhouse, you’ll find bridges, turrets and a Roman well along the Chesters Roman Trail.