Festival of Archaeology at Brading Roman Villa

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Festival of Archaeology at Brading Roman Villa

This summer,step into history at Brading Roman Villa, as we celebrate the Festival of Archaeology 2025 on Saturday 26th July!

In 1880, retired army Captain John Thorp and local farmer William Munns made an extraordinary discovery – the stunning Bacchus mosaic. Their find sparked national interest and led to the excavation of the villa.

This special event brings the story of the Villa to life with a full programme of engaging and family-friendly activities:

Family Archaeology Sessions – Get hands-on and uncover the past together.

Living History Experience – Talk to the characters who were involved in the discovery of the Villa in 1880

Afternoon Talk by Our Head Guide – Dive into the history and significance of the site.Book Online via our website.

Nature Trail Walks – Explore the ancient farmland and experience the landscape that once surrounded the Roman villa.

New for this year – we're putting a spotlight on wellbeing and the natural world. Enjoy a peaceful walk through our nature trail, take in the stunning sea views, and reflect on the deep connection between nature, history, and personal wellbeing – a key theme of this year's Festival of Archaeology.

Visit the Forum Café for a relaxing break, featuring homemade cakes, lunch options, and our exclusive Roman Honey Cake.

And don't forget: museum admission now includes unlimited visits for 12 months – so you can come back and explore again and again. Pay once, visit all year!

Whether you're a history buff, a nature lover, or simply looking for a great day out, Brading Roman Villa offers a unique and enriching experience for all ages.