Family-friendly things to do at Chedworth Roman Villa

Children playing with garden games at Chedworth Roman Villa, Gloucestershire. | © National Trust Images/James Dobson

Chedworth Roman Villa is a fantastic place to visit with the family. You can play Roman board games, build mosaic-themed puzzles and enjoy a family picnic with incredible views over the Cotswold countryside. Several times throughout the year, you will be able to join fun-filled trails and engage in archaeological activities. You can also create your own mosaics, watch historical characters bring the past to life and dress up while your explore this ancient site.

Festival of Archaeology

From 13-28 July 2024, Chedworth will be hosting several events and activities to tie in with the Festival of Archaeology, an annual festival coordinated by the Council for British Archaeology.

Come and see how our conservation team cleans some of the finest mosaics in Britain and take part in an archaeological dig where ‘discoveries’ are made before your eyes. Learn from experts about advanced archaeological techniques such as Lidar and Geophys and get your hands on the ‘tools of the trade’ like trowels, measuring rods and brushes.

Pack a picnic and enjoy a relaxing day of games, puzzles, dress up and more.

Join in with the Summer of Play

There’s lots of fun to be had this summer at Chedworth Roman Villa. From 3 August to 1 September, join us for a record breakers challenge. The Villa holds several impressive records including the longest in-situ mosaic in Britain, the oldest toilet in the National Trust, the only known 5th century mosaic and the first on-site Villa museum in the world. The Villa is even home to Helix Pomatia, the Roman Snail, which is the largest gastropod in Northwest Europe. Not only will you be able to learn about Chedworth's records, but during the Summer of Play you will get the chance to set your own in Roman inspired games, puzzles and sporting activities.

Why not enjoy an ice cream in the Chedworth Café or relax at a picnic spot next to the ruins of the Villa? Put your sun hat on and come and make the most of being outdoors this summer.

Summer of Play is sponsored by Starling Bank.

Planning your family visit

Baby changing facilities are available in the Salway Learning Room and Visitor Reception.
Buggies are welcome but please be aware that there are some uneven surfaces around the Villa.
As we are an active archaeological site, only assistance dogs are allowed on the property.

Games & Puzzles

There are several Roman-themed activities to get stuck into during a visit. You can hone your strategic skills with a game of Nine Men's Morris, tackle our challenging mosaic-themed puzzles, test your knowledge of Roman numerals or create your own fun patterns with our magnetic mosaics. During holiday periods, a giant Nine Men's Morris board is in action on the lawns along with a large puzzle of Winter, the iconic figure from Chedworth's Grand Dining Room mosaic, which is sure to test each family's teamwork skills. Giant building blocks, skipping ropes, hoops and hopscotch are also available during the holidays to add to the fun.

Dress up

Volunteers have designed a spectrum of Roman outfits that families can wear while they tour the Villa. These are available at selected times during holiday periods and can create the perfect photo moment.

Exploring the collection

The museum contains a collection of historically significant items found at Chedworth including Roman hairpins, jewellery, coins and statues. There is something to interest every member of the family. A game of 'I spy' is hosted in the museum several times a year.

Seasonal Trails & Activities

During holidays periods, families can experience a fun-filled trail or dive into active learning activities. Easter, the Festival of Archaeology, the Summer of Play and Half Term breaks are particularly popular.

Historical Characters

Chedworth Roman Villa has a whole cast of historical characters to entertain visitors during half terms and bank holiday weekends, so keep an eye on the website for details. Censorinus, the Villa owner, shares what it was like to live in one of the finest villas in the country while Dr Quintus takes you on a journey into surgery and medicine during Roman times. Sabina shows you what it was like looking after the Lady of the Villa and Thomas Margetts and James Farrer tell the famous discovery and excavation story from 1864.

A highlight of the calendar is when the Gladiators take over the Villa for Father's Day Weekend. Get ready for Gladiators shows, military displays and the chance to take on the dads in 'combat'.

Special Events

Keep an eye on the website for family-friendly events from talks, crafts and demonstrations, to storytelling, archaeological activities and immersive experiences.