Historical hijinks this half-term at Fishbourne Roman Palace
Visitors to Fishbourne Roman Palace this half-term will have the chance to try their hand at historical activities, from making mosaics, to spinning yarn, to learning about Roman food and feasting. With a free activity on offer every day from Monday 21 to Friday 25 February, there will be family fun suitable for all ages on offer.
Fishbourne Roman Palace is the country’s largest Roman home and dates back to 75 AD, the early years of the Roman Empire’s conquest of Britain. It is home to a collection of elaborate mosaics, as well as Roman baths, and gives visitors an idea of what family life might have been like 2,000 years ago.
As well as the free activities running from Monday to Friday, visitors on Thursday 24 February will also have the opportunity to go behind the scenes and see curatorial work taking place in the Collections Discovery Centre.
Melanie Marsh, Property Manager at Fishbourne Roman Palace, said: “Our half-term activities will transport visitors back in time through the last 2,000 years to arrive in the Roman era, when Fishbourne was an important trading post for the Roman Empire.
“Back then, the palace was a thriving and opulent place, full of people, animals and activity. Today, there is something for everyone to discover here.
“There are mosaics to marvel at, with intricate details to try and spot. In our museum, visitors will find a diverse collection of treasures that have been unearthed here, with fascinating artefacts that help us to piece together the history of this incredible site and uncover its mysteries. As well as getting involved with some fun crafts and discovering the mosaics and collections, when the weather is nice our fantastic recreated Roman gardens are great for a stroll!”
There is free parking and food available to purchase on site. Ticket prices start at £12 for an adult, £6 for a child and £11.50 for senior concessions. Family tickets are available at £20 for one adult and up to three children, or £35 for two adults and up to four children.
Members of the Sussex Archaeological Society can visit Fishbourne Roman Palace and the other Sussex Past heritage sites and museums, including Lewes Castle & Museum and Michelham Priory House & Gardens, free of charge. Membership starts at just £20 for a student, £40 for standard membership, £58 for joint membership and £70 for a family.
As the Society is a registered charity, it is possible to Gift Aid tickets.