roman tours uk chester

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Dedicated to illuminating the life of Roman soldiers and life in Roman Britain.

Award-winning Roman Tours offer a superb fact-filled entertaining story of 2,000-year-old Deva - Britain's biggest Roman fortress. Legionary guides take you behind the scenes at key sites to explore the drama of life in the Roman Army - all based on the latest research by military experts.

We are specialist providers of Roman history to schools and museums across the U.K. for more than 18 years. Presenting and illuminating the life of a Roman soldier in Britain, through informative, educational and interactive experiences for all ages.

We provide some of the only full-time professional Romans in Britain, throughout the year. Enduring the British climate in authentic clothing and equipment and constantly update our knowledge and equipment as archaeology uncovers new information.  We regularly visit schools across the UK and bring education on Roman Britain to you. Should you visit Chester we also provide guided tours of the largest Roman fortress in the UK for all ages and groups. We can also provide Roman characters for corporate promotions or to add to your own event.

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Fascinating Walking Tours Of Roman Chester With An Authentic Roman Soldier

Most Recent: Reviews ordered by most recent publish date in descending order.

Detailed Reviews: Reviews ordered by recency and descriptiveness of user-identified themes such as waiting time, length of visit, general tips, and location information.

ROMAN TOURS (Chester) - All You Need to Know BEFORE You Go

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Roman Tours

Dedicated to illuminating the lift of Roman Soldiers and life in Roman Britain.

How would you like to be transported back nearly 2000 years, to visit the city of Chester when it was the largest Roman fortress in Britain; so large and well appointed to have the unique feature of Britain’s biggest amphitheatre too? For people who like something fresh, interesting, factual and fun – a perspective on history that perhaps you haven’t considered before, touring Chester with an authentic Roman Soldier guiding you on a light-hearted journey through Chester’s Roman Heritage.

With tours lasting approximately 90 minutes, you will be taken on a journey through the remains of Roman Chester – Deva. Armed with the latest archaeological evidence, we provide you with a unique insight into life as it was in Roman Britain, showing you some astounding sights ranging from the amphitheatre itself to remains hidden away in the basements of the high street shops! 

The tours start at 12pm and 3pm daily except Sundays starting at the Visitor Information Centre next to the town hall.

Contact Information

Telephone Number – 01978 761 264 / 07885 403 485

Roman Tours, Chester Visitor Information Centre, Chester Town Hall, Chester, CH1 2HJ

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Fascinating Walking Tours Of Roman Chester With An Authentic Roman Soldier

Most Recent: Reviews ordered by most recent publish date in descending order.

Detailed Reviews: Reviews ordered by recency and descriptiveness of user-identified themes such as waiting time, length of visit, general tips, and location information.

Roman Tours - All You Need to Know BEFORE You Go (2024) - Tripadvisor

Discover Chester's Roman, heritage and spooky history

Chester, cheshire.

On a guided tour of Chester you’ll meet Roman soldiers, float along the River Dee and find out the spine-chilling tales of the city’s past.

On a Roman Tour across the city, you’ll be led by a Roman Soldier who will give you a real insight into historical Chester.

If you’d like to sit back and relax to see what Chester is about, hop on to a bus tour or climb aboard a boat for a river cruise and see a different side to this fascinating city. For those who are brave enough, why not dare to take an evening Ghost Tour? Experience a night-time journey around the eerie haunts of Chester with your very own Ghosthunter Guide. Listen to spine-chilling tales of ghosts, ghouls and things that go bump in the night.

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A weekend of champagne and romance at The Chester Grosvenor

Spend a romantic break at The Chester Grosvenor in the heart of the ancient city of Chester. Enjoy a couple’s massage, drink champagne and eat spectacular food in this beautiful hotel.

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Roman Tours is proud to present,  Chester Medieval Tours.

• Small Groups
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Email: [email protected]

• England, UK
• History Focus Tours: Celts, Romans & Tudors
• Wales Tours

Roman Britain, England and Wales: A Classic Route

Roman Britain: Sussex, Bath, South Wales, Cotswolds, Chester, Lake District, Hadrian’s Wall, York

10 - 12 days

They Came, They Saw, They Left Really Cool Mosaics…

The Romans ruled Britain for nearly 400 years. It wasn't an easy task - Queen Boudicea inflicted the heaviest defeat on Imperial Rome but, ultimately, the local Celtic tribes were no match for their organized military precision. Romans settled in, built highly decorated villas resplendent with mosaics, ornate gardens with fine statuary, extensive towns, bathhouses, amphitheaters and temples. They even left us with their language! Despite the intervening 1600 years with Saxon, Viking, Norman and Mediaeval settlements often built on top of Roman buildings, there's still plenty of physical evidence of their occupation to discover.

This tour, while focused on historical and ancient Roman remains, visits some of the prettiest parts of the UK. Tour companions who might not be quite as keen on the main theme will find plenty of distractions!

This is a suggested tour itinerary for private departures, adjustable to best suit your specific wishes. Price based on how many travelers, your chosen package inclusions and your chosen level of accommodation.

This tour begins in London and ends in York or London.

TENTATIVE ITINERARY

pre/post tour

We recommend spending independent time in the fabulous capital city of ‘Roman Londinium.’ In addition to all of the city’s iconic sites, on our theme you may choose to visit the British Museum and Museum of London to see important collections and special displays of Roman London. There’s the Roman City Walls, Temple of Mithras and lesser known gem the Museum of Fashion and Textiles, where collections include textiles, fashion and dress as a social historical record. Never a loss of fine things to see and do in London!

Guests have the option to extend their stay in York then take the train independently to London, Manchester or Edinburgh on the date of their choice. Alternatively there is the option to drive with your driver/guide from York back to London either directly or via Lincoln. Please discuss options with us. This is your custom trip so will be customized to your specific wishes.

LOGISTICAL NOTE: This itinerary is a 'sampler' tour visiting several regions of England so involves a bit more driving than the 'solo region' itineraries but is still a Small Group Touring Experience, the longer drives are broken up and balanced by ample 'off the beaten track' explorations.

Leaving London at approximately 09:00 from our central meeting point, we drive south-west. Our first destination is Silchester , the ancient capital of the Celtic Antrebates tribe. Here hexagonal walls enclose 107 acres, and excavations in the 1930s produced the most complete Roman town plan known in Britain.

Many modern English city names give away their Roman origins; the suffix 'chester' is a corruption of the Latin 'caestra' meaning ‘fort.’ We'll explore the city and immediate area around the pretty south coast city of Chichester . The highlights of our time in Sussex are sure to be the splendid Fishbourne Palace and the famed Bignor Villa.

Fishbourne was only discovered by accident in 1960. The site museum has fascinating artifacts from the excavations along with plans, reconstruction drawings and models. In the remains of the North Wing of the Palace can be seen the largest collection of in-situ mosaics in Britain, including the famous 'Cupid on a Dolphin.' Outside, the northern half of the formal garden has been replanted to its original plan as recovered by excavation. An attractive plant display area contains a range of plants known to have been cultivated by the Romans. By contrast, Bignor Villa has been a museum since 1815. It contains a wealth of interesting objects from everyday life found in excavations.

NIGHTSTOP Portsmouth area

Turning west, our first port of call is Winchester . This was the ancient capital of the Saxons and the Roman point of interest here is largely the street layout. It’s a lovely city where you’ll also enjoy visiting the cathedral, burial place for Jane Austen, and the mediaeval hall.

We’ll certainly see Old Sarum . The Romans placed a staging fort in this Iron Age hill fort. Its commanding position made it popular for reuse by the Norman’s and later mediaeval builders of Salisbury’s first cathedral. It’s an impressive site. As time permits, we can also see Salisbury Cathedral.

NIGHTSTOP Bath

Suggested Property: The Kennard, Edgar Townhouse or similar, http://www.kennard.co.uk/

Dorsetshire

A full day today out and about in the Dorsetshire countryside! Our main port of call on our theme is Maiden Castle , the largest hillfort in England extending 45 acres, dating from about 3000 BC. The name ‘Maiden’ comes from the Celtic 'Mai Dun', meaning 'great hill.' Maiden Castle was once a bustling town populated by the Durotriges Tribe prior to a Roman attack in 43AD. The remains of a Roman Temple are visible onsite.

Also today, as time permits, we have our choice of Thomas Hardy’s town of Dorchester, the lovely Wells Cathedral and/or King Arthur’s reputed burial place and England’s New Age capital of Glastonbury. Here is the setting for the ancient Celtic legends of Gwyn ap Nudd, King of the Fairies, and the magical Glastonbury Tor.

NIGHTSTOP Bath , same property as above

The full day to explore Bath  (‘Aquae Sulis’) the centre for Roman ‘R&R’ as you choose. The first Roman camp was established here in 44. The Roman town occupied less than 25 acres, but commanded a vital bridging point across the river Avon. Bath was later reconstructed as a Temple and bathing complex due to the healing springs, and it still contains some of the finest Roman remains in Britain today.

By spending the whole day, have ample free time to explore at your leisure. In addition to the Roman sites, Bath is home to the Jane Austen Centre , The American Museum featuring an interesting collection of quilts and the opportunity to wander the lovely tea rooms and antique shops.

South Wales

Just across the border in what is today Wales , discover the extensive remains of the great legionary fortress of ‘Isca’ and town of ‘Venta.’ Two thirds of the Roman armies were employed in securing their border and subduing the Welsh tribes. There’s an interesting amphitheatre at present day Caerleon , the legionary fortress of II Augusta, present day Caerwent , with its almost complete circuit of walls.

The rest of our day can be rounded out by seeing one of the Celtic remains in the area, charming castle town of Chepstow or the beautifully situated ruin of Tintern Abbey, inspiration for Wordsworth as we choose. Yet another beautifully scenic area!

NIGHTSTOP South Wales

The Cotswolds

We can explore the superb Chedworth Villa  and great Whitcombe in this region better known as ‘The Cotswolds,’ famed for quaint, thatch roofed cottage villages.

The county of Gloucester was one of the most important settlement sites for the Romans of the 1st and 2nd centuries. Nearby was another settlement, now known as Cirencester , the second largest Roman town outside of London. The Corinium Museum here is sure to be one of our day’s highlights.

NIGHTSTOP South Wales ​, same property as above

Wales into Chester

Dominating eastern mid Wales are the mountains called the Brecon Beacons . Here we’ll visit a well-reserved cavalry fort with remaining gates and standing walls of over 10’. This is a wonderful national park, so well worth some time in any case!

Next, travel to another site of fine Roman remains, Wroxeter . It’s one of the few examples of a Roman town that have not been built over and it, too, has some excellent high standing walls. What makes Wroxeter even more interesting are the continuing discoveries still being made in the region and one school of thought places Arthur’s Camelot here.

NIGHTSTOP Chester

Chester (‘Diva’), home of originally of the Legio II Augusta then later the XX Valeria Victrix, boasts the remains of an amphitheatre, part of a quay (it sits on a navigable river) and magnificent Grosvenor Museum. Chester's real jewel is the amphitheatre, the largest stone amphitheatre in Britain. It could hold over 6000 spectators and was for training the legionaries in fighting techniques. See the Roman baths and Roman gardens. The whole day is free for guests to do as they choose so you can explore all of this pretty city, famed for its city wall, cathedral and mediaeval shopping 'rows.'

NIGHTSTOP Chester , same property as above

Lake District

Heading north, out first destination is the picturesque village of Ribchester , set in the beautiful countryside of the Ribble Valley. The Roman fort, called 'Bremetennacum veteranorum', was established during the late first century AD. Roman Ribchester is brought to life at the museum here by dramatic displays, which contain a life size cavalryman, Roman legionary and exciting interactive exhibits.

Next, our Roman theme offers an excellent excuse - if one were needed! - to tour through some of the most breathtaking scenery in the British Isles, the Lake District . Ambleside, one of the Lake's atmospheric towns, is home to a minor Roman Fort, picturesquely situated on the northern edge of Lake Windermere. We’ll spend the remainder of our day exploring the scenic Lake District as we please!

NIGHTSTOP Lake District

Suggested Property: Willowsmere or similar, http://www.thewillowsmere.com/

Hadrian's Wall

Nearly 2000 years ago, in 122 AD, the Emperor Hadrian embarked on a huge undertaking: to mark the northernmost boundary of Roman Britain with an unusually long fortified wall. Skirmishing tribes were contained behind it for over 350 years and Hadrian's name written indelibly into the history of this remote part of the UK. As a World Heritage Site, Hadrian's Wall has been recognised for its international importance as an evocative monument to one of the world's greatest civilisations. Large parts of the wall are still visible, peppered with a variety of forts, museums, reconstructions and fascinating visitor centres. Heaps to explore!

This afternoon, your choice of spending another night around Hadrian's Wall tonight or, finish this evening in York. Our tour concludes in York, arriving by approximately 18:00. Accommodation is included, guests are free to dine this evening and to tour York tomorrow as they choose. Alternatively we can spend more time around Hadrian's Wall, staying in/near Hexham, and have guided time around York. Again this custom itinerary will be desiged to best suit you and your time/budget.

NIGHTSTOP York

Suggested Property: The Churchill, Beech House or similar, http://www.churchillhotel.com/ http://www.beechhouse-york.co.uk/

York  was the legionary fortress of the IX and later VI and also the military capital of Britannia Inferior. There is much to see on the Roman theme amidst the remnants of mediaeval building work in this splendid city. Find, for example, a remarkable expanse of painted plaster that has survived nearly 2000 years. There are long runs of city walls complete with towers and a bath house. York also offers the iconic shopping 'Shambles,' the Minster, the cathedral, a Viking Centre and several museums dedicated to interesting things such as quilting and Richard III. Well worth a full day or even a few if you have the time!

Please note: All attraction opening times are correct at time of printing this website. While we will do our utmost to include all of the properties mentioned as central visits, we reserve the right to change an attraction should it become impossible to deliver a planned visit due to changes in opening days or times beyond our control.

Please note that your final day to day itinerary may fluctuate to accommodate variable opening times/days for listed attractions, special events and places of interest. Please discuss your needs with us for an individual itinerary with rate quote.

Oft imitated, never duplicated! This is an original SGT itinerary, property of Special Group Tours and to be used only with express permission/in conjunction with SGT. Written in conjunction with Bruce Cherry.

What Your Tour Package Includes

This is a suggested tour itinerary and can be modified to best you your individual wishes.

Suggested tour package includes: # of touring days with vehicle & exclusive services of your driver/guide/companion, your accommodation for # nights while on the tour including full breakfasts, all taxes and tips other than those you may wish to give your guide. Your price also can include dinners and/or entrance fees to attractions or these items can be left out of the up front package/to be paid directly for maximum flexibility. Airport transfers, accommodation pre and post tour, scheduled city day tours/attraction passes/transport passes or theatre/event tickets can be added to your package as you wish, subject to availability.

SGT is at your service!

The Special Group Tours Advantage is our unique and intimate understanding of what you expect traveling in the UK and Europe. We have not only visited but have spent many years living in and loving the cultures you will experience down the ‘B’ Roads and off the beaten track. We have worked with local suppliers and our guide/companion team for over a decade, creating unique special interest itineraries. Special Group Tours offers our “insider” knowledge to you.

The SGT Small Group Touring Concept is traveling with just 4 - 14 guests per departure. It is our aim to introduce you to the 'real' country and its people, not just ticking the boxes of a standardized route and treating you as an individual and not a number. Our concept allows for a leisurely touring pace and flexibility to get off the beaten track to discover hidden gems. Of course you'll see the major sites but so much more too!

At Special Group Tours, it is our priority that you have the most enjoyable holiday possible. You deserve it!

Call us Toll Free on: US 866 725 5250; or London UK 0790 552 4717

Email: Tours@SpecialGroupTours.com

Email us here

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The Chester Tour Company

Your one-stop shop for sightseeing walks or coach tours with commentaries around Chester, the 2000-year-old city, with an experienced and entertaining guide. Many of our guides can speak different languages, just let us know your requirements.

Additionally, we can arrange Meet and Greets for tour groups by the Town Crier, Roman Legionaries and Mediaeval Soldiers and give out the best FREE map in Chester , always available to tour groups visiting the city.

All our walking tours depart from the Town Hall Square in Northgate Street unless otherwise requested by clients.

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Roman Tours

Our trusted partner is an award-winning business that delivers walking tours around the Roman Fortress of Deva built 2000 years in the heart of Chester with a costumed guide.

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BusyBus Tours

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Roman Tours

Award-winning Roman Tours offer a superb fact-filled entertaining story of 2,000-year-old Deva - Britain's biggest Roman fortress. Legionary guides take you behind the scenes at key sites to explore the drama of life in the Roman Army - all based on the latest research by military experts.

We are specialist providers of Roman history to schools and museums across the U.K. for more than 18 years. Presenting and illuminating the life of a Roman soldier in Britain, through informative, educational and interactive experiences for all ages.

We provide some of the only full-time professional Romans in Britain, throughout the year. Enduring the British climate in authentic clothing and equipment and constantly update our knowledge and equipment as archaeology uncovers new information. We regularly visit schools across the UK and bring education on Roman Britain to you. Should you visit Chester we also provide guided tours of the largest Roman fortress in the UK for all ages and groups. We can also provide Roman characters for corporate promotions or to add to your own event.

• Tickets: £5 To £27

• Tickets: £55 To £135

What Roman Tours in Chester Offer

• Days Out & Activities in Chester - Sightseeing & Tours in Chester - Visit Chester

Chester is a city renowned for its Roman origins. As a result, companies offering guided tours around its renowned landmarks are never in short supply. However, for a unique and authentic experience, the award-winning Chester-based firm Roman Tours is dedicated to giving guests a glimpse into real life in Roman Britain.

Historical tours

Roman Tours provides in-depth experiences packed with historical facts. Led by legionary guides, tour participants can delve into the story of Britain’s biggest Roman fortress, the 2,000-year-old Deva Victrix, based in Chester. Informed legionaries take guests to key locations to explore the drama and action of life in Rome’s army based on up-to-date research from military experts.

Full-time Romans

The tour company is renowned for providing the UK’s only professional Romans working full-time all year round. Regardless of what the British climate throws at them, Roman Tour’s standing army of legionary guides dress in armour, equipment and clothing that is historically accurate. Along with their garments and gear, the guides of Roman Tours ensure that their knowledge of Romans in Britain remains constantly updated as archaeologists uncover new information on the era.

Authentic recreations

Named after Deva Victrix, Roman Tours also has a dedicated display team that performs detailed re-enactments of military manoeuvres and gladiatorial battles that illustrate how well the Roman war machine worked and what life was like in camp and on the march for soldiers.

The next time you visit Chester, be sure to explore its rich Roman history through its numerous features of historical significance.

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The Best Destination Dupes for the 7 Wonders of the World

With this ethos in mind, it's time to pull up those "Seven Wonders of the World" bucket lists and think outside of the box. While these gorgeous locations are surely worthy of a visiting in any traveler's life, they also aren't going anywhere—and in the meantime, you can opt for their lesser known but still gorgeous counterparts (or dupes, if you will).

Travel experts at SkyParkSecure , a UK national airport parking distributor, recently shared the results of their research into the top alternative locations to the seven wonders of the world within Europe and the UK. If you're planning your European summer trip , you might as well add a few stops!

Here are the destination dupes the researchers came up with:

The Sanctuary of Christ the King, Portugal instead of Christ the Redeemer, Brazil

But the Catholic statue Sanctuary of Christ the King is another story. Located in Almada, the massive statue representing the same subject in the same pose actually overlooks Lisbon, Portugal's capital city, and it was actually inspired by Christ the Redeemer.

The Roman Amphitheatre, Chester, UK and the Pula Arena, Croatia instead of the Colosseum, Rome

If you're looking for a quieter and more tranquil visit without missing out on the architectural and historical beauty, you can head over to the Chester Roman Amphitheater in the UK. It is the country's oldest one, and it dates back to the 1st century.

Alternatively, Croatia's Pula Arena is also a very valid option. The site is the only remaining amphitheater that still flaunts four completely preserved side towers, and it was built between 27 BC and AD 68.

The Bosnian Pyramid, Bosnia and Herzegovina instead of Chichen Itza, Mexico

Dubbed the Bosnian Pyramid of The Sun and located in the area of Visoko, the landmark is a pyramid-shaped massive hill that is, allegedly, a natural formation known as a flatiron. However, there have been many claims disputing the natural theory, and pointing towards a human-made construction.

The Cenobio de Valerón, Spain instead of Petra, Jordan

But you could head over to Spain for a similarly breathtaking experience. While it doesn't feature Petra's same architectural decor, the Cenobio de Valerón (located on the island of Gran Canaria, Spain) is still considered a valid dupe. Much like Petra itself, it is an archaeological site, and it features a system of caves carved into the rock. It was built in Roman times, and used until the end of the 15th century.

The Royal Pavilion, Brighton, UK instead of the Taj Mahal, India

Brighton's Royal Pavilion in the UK, instead, is a closer reach. Built in 1787 as a seaside resort for King George VI, the Royal Pavilion was then sold to the city of Brighton in 1850. It is now a hidden-gem destination for architecture enthusiasts looking to marvel at some gorgeous structures. 

Glanum, France instead of Machu Picchu, Peru

Glanum doesn't really have this problem to face. Nested between the Alpilles mountains in France's Provence, Glanum is an archeological site that once was a wealthy city. Now, visitors can admire its remains surrounded by nature, and even head to the nearby town of Saint-Rémy-de-Provence right after.

Hadrian's Wall, Cumbria, UK instead of the Great Wall of China, China

While Hadrian's Wall in Cumbria, UK, doesn't beat that record, it is still an excellent alternative if you're looking to get similar vibes for a more convenient travel cost. Going from Wallsend on the River Tyne to Bowness-on-Solway, the wall spreads across 73 miles, which is still a grandiose sight to behold. Want more Thrillist? Follow us on  Instagram ,  TikTok ,  Twitter ,  Facebook ,  Pinterest , and  YouTube .

Serena Tara is a Staff Writer at Thrillist reporting on travel as well as space- and astronomy-related news and trends. With more than five years of experience in digital journalism, she has written and reported on a wide variety of topics, from news and politics to culture, fashion, and lifestyle. Her work has appeared in Salon.com, Marie Claire, New York Magazine's Bedford+Bowery, among other outlets. She holds a master's degree in Digital Journalism from NYU's Arthur L. Carter Journalism Institute. Follow her on Twitter and Instagram .