Roman history. Archaeology. Science. Maths. There’s lots to explore at Fishbourne Roman Palace – the remains of the largest Roman Palace north of the Alps.

Our Learning Team oversee sessions for thousands of people every year. Learning topics at Fishbourne Roman Palace include exploring daily life in Roman Britain, Roman military activities and Roman technology.

Discover our formal school learning activities for Key Stage 1 to 5, plus activities for families, Home Educator groups, adult workshops, and group visits.

Scroll down to discover the Roman learning sessions we run. Or click on the button below to book.

Fishbourne Roman Palace is one of the leading places in the country for your school or college to learn about the Romans.

Our expert Learning Team creates engaging sessions tailored to all ages and abilities, from Key Stage 1 to 5 and beyond. Visits usually take place from 10am to 2.30pm Monday to Friday (during term time) and can run during weekends and school holidays, subject to availability.

Scroll down for a list of popular workshops. Or click on the Workshops Available button below for a full list of the sessions we offer for those in Key Stage 1 to 5.

Our FAQs below provide guidance ahead of your visit. If you would like more information, please contact us on adminfish@sussexpast.co.uk.

Roman Activity Workshop

Key Stage 1 and 2

An ideal introduction to Roman life for those in Year 1 to 6. What did people do at Fishbourne 2,000 years ago?  How do we know? This practical workshop gives children a chance to try a variety of hands-on activities including spinning wool, writing on wax tablets, mosaic-making, arch building and role play in the replica Roman kitchen. Each child can dress as a slave and selected children will also dress in full Roman costume.

What is Archaeology?

Key Stage 1 and 2

Discover how archaeologists investigate the past. This workshop provides children with an opportunity to try a range of archaeological skills, including recording finds, sieving and identifying food remains, sorting and classifying real artefacts and much more. The workshop includes objects from prehistory to the present day. There will also be a chance to explore chronology with the aid of our replica Roman kitchen.

Roman Maths Challenge

Key Stage 2 and 3

How is maths actually used in the real world? Students are set a series of mathematical challenges to unlock the code for the treasure box – accuracy is key! Tasks include exploring symmetry and tessellation in mosaic-making, solving an Archimedes Square, using Roman building techniques, calculating pay for the Roman army and working out ratios. This inspiring workshop can be adapted for children learning at all levels, primarily for Year 5 to 9.

Domestic Life

Key Stage 3 and 4

Linking Classics with archaeology, this workshop focuses on real finds from Fishbourne. Students are challenged to investigate and interpret a series of artefacts. They are encouraged to develop their ideas and their vocabulary, then present their findings to the rest of the class. Students explore the relationship between the Palace and the wider Roman Empire.

Military Matters

Key Stage 3 and 4

What role did the military play in the Fishbourne area in the days after the invasion of AD 43? A practical workshop in which students explore different areas of military life.  The students use real artefacts and replica equipment to experience different aspects of a soldier’s role, equipment and weaponry.

Ask the Expert

Key Stage 4 and 5

Ideal for groups with a specific interest in the site, we offer a half-hour or hour slot for students to ask questions related to the site and look at relevant artefacts.  Previous topics have included Client Kings, The Discovery of the Site, Art at Fishbourne, Clothing and Hairstyles in Roman Britain.

Please contact us for more information.

How do I book a school visit?

To book a school activity at Fishbourne Roman Palace, you’ll need to provide:

– Two to three possible dates for your visit

– School address, phone number and email address

– The number of students and year group

– The workshops you would like or topics you are studying

– Any pupils requiring one-to-one support or with additional needs

Please email adminfish@sussexpast.co.uk with these details and we will reply within five working days.

How much does a school visit cost?

As a registered charity we work hard to keep the costs for schools as low as possible. School groups receive a group rate discount admission. There is an additional charge on top of admission for workshops and other resources. For our current prices please email adminfish@sussexpast.co.uk.

How many pupils can you accommodate per visit?

Fishbourne Roman Palace can accommodate up to 250 pupils every day.

Is there coach parking?

There is a large car park at Fishbourne Roman Palace which can accommodate up to eight coaches. Parking is free.

Do you offer planning visits?

Planning visits are free of charge so you can carry out a risk assessment. Bring your booking information with you and our staff will help you find your way around the site. A safety information sheet, resources and additional information about the site can be found here.

Is Fishbourne Roman Palace accessible?

The site is generally level with easy access to the education spaces, museum, North Wing mosaic area, café and film theatre. There are wide doors and ramped walkways.

The gardens have gravel pathways but the formal garden can be viewed from the colonnade, which runs the length of the North Wing. There is seating within the museum and grounds.

We have several wheelchair-accessible toilets including one in the Museum foyer and one adjacent to the car park, which is operated by a RADAR key.

Please do contact us in advance for any other specific questions.

Special Education Needs

Our Learning Team are passionate about offering inclusive learning opportunities to all. Please let us know in advance of your visit to help us support your pupils during their visit.

Where is Fishbourne Roman Palace located?

Fishbourne is conveniently located a couple of miles west of Chichester and close to Portsmouth. It is easily-access by road, located just off the A27 and near the M3. The address is Roman Way, Chichester, PO19 3QR.  Fishbourne railway station is less than a 10 minute walk away and buses stop frequently at the end of Salthill Road.

What facilities does the site have?

– Free parking for cars, coaches, minibuses

– Indoor lunchroom for booked school groups (subject to availability)

– Outdoor shelter

– Café and gift shop

What should I do on arrival?

When your school party arrives, please report to the main welcome desk where a member of the Learning Team will come to meet you. Please note, access is via the museum car park and care should be taken.

What happens if I am late or need to cancel?

Please call the site on 01243 785859 as soon as possible if you are going to be late for a visit.

If you need to cancel your visit at short notice, you may incur a cancellation charge in line with our cancellation policy.

If a cancellation has to be made due to exceptional circumstances, every effort will be made to reschedule your visit.

Is photography and filming allowed on site?

You are more than welcome to photograph your school pupils enjoying their visit, along with our site and exhibitions.

How do I pay?

You will be invoiced following confirmation of your visit date and on receipt of your booking form.

Payment for school sessions can be made by cash, cheque, credit/debit card or bank transfer. Details will be found on your invoice.

Fishbourne Roman Palace and Gardens is a great place for families and home educators to get hands-on with history.

Our activities can support your children with key areas of the National Curriculum, including Roman Daily Life, Roman Technology, Military Matters and more.

If you’re looking for an engaging family day out where your child can get hands-on with history, there’s a lot of exploring and learning at Fishbourne Roman Palace.

• See the What’s On page for family activities to enjoy together
• Become a member for discounted admission to Sussex Past properties
• Book a workshop for your Home Education group*

* If you would like to book a workshop to do learning at Fishbourne, please contact us. We recommend linking with other families so that you are in a group of 10 to 30.

Fishbourne Roman Palace is one of the leading Roman sites in the country, dating back nearly 2,000 years.

If you’re visiting Fishbourne Roman Palace as a group, why not book a guided tour? You’ll be greeted by a friendly guide and spend an hour exploring the museum, mosaics and gardens. Get access to Celtic and Roman artefacts and ask questions about anything that catches your eye. It’s perfect for learning about Fishbourne Roman Palace, its history and significance.

Groups of 10 or more – who book in advance – receive discounted admission.