Heading out on a family vacation in England, Wales, and Scotland can take you on adventures you didn’t know were possible. Yes, you can see the highlights in London or the beauty of the Cotswolds. There are so many amazing things to do in England. You can check out the castles in Scotland too. However, did you know these three areas are some of the best places to see Roman ruins? Imagine spending time with your family, as you make memories and check out history at the same time. I recommend beginning with the Roman ruins in England. Then venture over to Wales and Scotland to finish the journey of a lifetime. Today, I am going to share the Roman ruins in these areas that should be near the top of your list.  

Roman Ruins in England, Wales, and Scotland 

Hadrian’s Wall 

Okay, so many people have heard about Hadrian’s Wall. This is why I decided I might as well put it at the top of this list. If you have heard of this Roman ruin, or even if you haven’t, you must know that walking along it is considered a must-do amongst travelers around the world.  

This Roman ruin was constructed during the 1st century. It took three years to build this wall that stretched eighty miles and was twenty feet high. Some of the wall was used to build roads, fences, and homes in later years. However, in the 1830s, a landowner saved the remaining portions that were still standing.  

Recently, the National Trust acquired almost all the land Hadrian’s Wall sits on. A visit to walk along the remaining wall should also include a couple of other stops. I recommend checking out the Birdoswald Roman Fort, Corbridge Roman Town, Chesters Roman Fort and Museum, and the Housesteads Roman Fort.  

Fishborne Roman Palace 

The Fishborne Roman Palace is considered the largest Roman villa in Britain. A visit to these Roman ruins in England will have you seeing the largest collection of mosaics in their original locations. If you spot the one with cupid on a dolphin, you will notice the artist signed it. You can also see pottery, jewelry, and coins during your visit.  

Chedworth Roman Villa 

This is another Roman villa that is known for its mosaic floors that have been carefully preserved. This villa is surrounded by Roman walls. During your visit, you will also find yourself checking out bath houses, a water shrine, and underfloor heating. Don’t forget to stop at the Victorian museum to see the artifacts.  

Caerwent Roman Town 

Caerwent Roman Town is located in Wales. These Roman ruins include a basilica, dwellings, and a forum. Guides are available for tours on certain days of the week. Simply let me know if you are interested in a guided tour and I will arrange for one as I am personalizing your family vacation itinerary.  

Dolaucothi Gold Mines 

Well, if you are going to check out Roman ruins in England, Wales, and Scotland, you might as well see a few gold mines too! These mines are located in Wales, and they were in use in the 1930s. Your family can explore this Roman mine, as well as the nearby Victorian mine. You’ll need to wear miner’s gear to go underground, but it’s totally worth it for the experience.  

Vindolanda 

This is one of the most important Roman archaeological sites in all of Europe. Archaeologists can still be seen excavating this site. This means you may get to see them working during your visit. And don’t worry, if they aren’t there, you can still see many of their finds.  

The pottery is all laid out within the museum. You can also see wafer thin slices of wood that are known as tablets. There is writing on those tablets. They are thought to be one of the earliest known examples of writing in this country.  

Corinium Museum 

The Corinium Museum displays many of the items that have been discovered in the area of Cirencester. This area was once the Roman city of Corinium. This is one of the best museums for younger children. There are plenty of interactive and hands-on displays to keep everyone busy.  

Make sure you take the time to check out the 2nd century mosaic floor inside the museum. It’s worth a few minutes of your attention.  

Antonine Wall 

Antonine Wall in Scotland is quite similar to Hadrian’s Wall. This wall is only thirty-seven miles long. The wall is now part of the Frontiers of the Roman Empire World Heritage Site. If you visit the Hunterian Museum, you can check out The Antonine Wall: Rome’s Final Frontier exhibit. It is full of items that were located at the western end of the wall.  

These are some of the best Roman ruins in England, Wales, and Scotland. You obviously don’t need to see them all during your family vacation. But if one of them piques your interest, I can always include it as I am personalizing your family vacation itinerary.  

So, are you ready to have me create a personalized family vacation itinerary for your next trip to one of these destinations or somewhere else?  

If you said yes, I would like to invite you to click here to schedule a personalized family vacation planning session with me. When you click on the link, you will be taken directly to my digital calendar to schedule a time that is convenient for you.  

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