Family fun this October half term at Roman Army Week
Looking for a fun family day out this October half term? Fishbourne Roman Palace is seeking new recruits to enlist in its Roman Army and learn what it takes to become a fully-fledged soldier.
From Monday 24 to Friday 28 October, there will be free activities every day for the trainee Roman soldiers at the heritage site near Chichester, West Sussex.
Once signed up, soldiers will take part in military exercises in the Palace gardens and must complete a range of tasks to earn their day’s pay, under the watchful eye of the Drill Officer.
The new recruits will learn all about what life was like for a Roman soldier and the skills they needed for combat. This will include writing their name in Roman letters to mastering sword and shield practise and spear throwing,
Visitors can also dress up in uniform, have a wound painted on and learning about medicines used 2,000 years ago. Or you can try Roman food and play a Roman board game.
The soldiers will receive a replica Roman coin at the end of the day as a reward for completing all their tasks.
Sarah Parker, property manager at Fishbourne Roman Palace, said: “Our Roman Army Week is a fun way for children to learn about the Roman era, with lots of supervised hands-on activities to transport them back to the early years of the Roman conquest of Britain.
“Those taking part always enjoy parading around our Palace gardens in costume and showing off their new skills.
“As well as getting involved in the activities, visitors can explore our fascinating collection of artefacts in the museum, learn about the discoveries made here and the history of the Palace – and marvel at our beautiful mosaics of course.”
About Fishbourne Roman Palace
Owned and cared for by The Sussex Archaeological Society, Fishbourne Roman Palace & Gardens was once the grandest Roman Palace in northern Europe and dates to AD 75.
Visitors can stroll around the recreated Roman gardens, the earliest Roman gardens found anywhere in the country. And enjoy the largest collection of mosaics in situ in the UK.
Roman Army Week activities take place from 10am to 4pm every day during half term (October 24 to 28).
All activities are included in the cost of admission
Ticket prices starting 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.
There is free parking and free WiFi. And food is available from the café, which serves locally sourced cakes, sandwiches and drinks all day.
Become a Member
Members of The Sussex Archaeological Society can visit Fishbourne Roman Palace and the Society’s other Sussex Past heritage sites and museums, including Lewes Castle & Museum and Michelham Priory House & Gardens, free of charge. Find out more about becoming a member here.