Newport Roman Villa

About

Discover life in Roman Britain at Newport Roman Villa

Step back almost 1,700 years and uncover everyday life in Roman Britain at Newport Roman Villa on the Isle of Wight. Hidden away in a quiet residential area of Newport, this fascinating historic site offers a rare glimpse into the past, revealing the remains of a third-century Romano-British farmhouse built around 280 AD. 

Whether you’re a history lover, curious explorer, or visiting with family, Newport Roman Villa brings ancient history to life through well-preserved ruins, engaging displays and hands-on activities for all ages.

Remarkable discovery in 1926

The story of Newport Roman Villa begins with an unexpected discovery. In 1926, workmen digging foundations for a garage at a nearby house uncovered Roman tiles beneath the ground. What started as a routine building project quickly became an archaeological breakthrough. 

Excavations revealed the extensive remains of a late Romano-British farmhouse, complete with a bath suite and evidence of a sophisticated heating system. The site was so well preserved that the entire ground plan of the building could be identified. Today, you can still explore this remarkable site and see a farmhouse that was abandoned more than sixteen centuries ago. 

Explore a 3rd-century roman farmhouse

Newport Roman Villa offers a fascinating insight into daily life in Roman Britain. As you walk around the site, you’ll discover the remains of rooms that once formed a thriving farmhouse during the Roman occupation of the Isle of Wight. 

Several parts of the villa have been carefully reconstructed to demonstrate the building techniques and materials used by the Romans. These displays highlight what the farmhouse would have looked like nearly two thousand years ago. 

Highlights of the villa include:

• The remains of mosaic flooring
• Structural features of the farmhouse
• Interpretation panels explaining life in Roman Britain

Discover Roman engineering and the bath suite

One of the most impressive features of Newport Roman Villa is its well-preserved Roman bath suite. The bath complex includes evidence of underfloor heating, known as a hypocaust system, which circulated warm air beneath the floors. 

Step into the Roman kitchen and garden

You can also explore recreated scenes designed to show how Romans may have lived. Take a peek inside a Roman kitchen, where preparations for a Roman feast are brought to life. 

Outside, the Roman herb garden reveals the types of plants that would have been used. These plants were likely grown for cooking, flavouring food, and everyday household use. 

Interactive exhibitions and artefacts

Inside the exhibition area, visitors can explore displays that reveal more about the Roman occupation of the Isle of Wight. Artefacts discovered across our island are displayed providing information on the wider Roman presence in the region. 

Family activities and hands-on learning

Newport Roman Villa is a fantastic attraction for families and young explorers. Children can enjoy a free quiz sheet, helping them investigate the site while learning about Roman history in a fun and interactive way. 

The villa also includes an education room with family activities, making it a great place for curious minds to learn through play and discovery.

School and group visits

Groups and schools are welcome to visit Newport Roman Villa throughout the year. The site offers a unique setting for educational trips, allowing students to experience real archaeology and learn about Roman life first hand. 

For information about group bookings or school visits, please email museums@iow.gov.uk or phone 01983 823433. 

Plan your visit

Newport Roman Villa is a hidden gem tucked away yet rich in history. Located just a short walk from the centre of Newport, it’s an easy and rewarding stop for anyone exploring our island. 

Please note: payment is accepted by cash or card only (no contactless payments).