Roman Canterbury Archaeological Tour

A 2-hour guided exploration of Canterbury's Roman past led by an archaeologist from the Canterbury Archaeological Trust. You'll examine the remains of a Roman theatre and visit the museum's collection of artefacts spanning four centuries of occupation. This tour suits anyone wanting detailed historical context beyond what casual museum visits offer. Best for archaeology enthusiasts and students. This is a easy activity lasting 2 hours. Group size: max 12. You meet at Canterbury Roman Museum entrance. Key highlights: Roman theatre remains still partly visible underground, Archaeologist explains layer-by-layer excavation methods, Handling of actual Romano-British artefacts (pottery, coins).

Price: £22

Duration: 2 hours

Difficulty: easy

Group size: max 12

Best for: archaeology enthusiasts and students

Best time: Late morning (10am-12pm) for better visibility of outdoor sites and fewer school groups

Meeting point: Canterbury Roman Museum entrance

Languages: English

Here is how the experience unfolds:

Start time Meet your archaeologist guide at the Roman Museum entrance - Bring your booking confirmation and arrive 5 minutes early.

First 30 min Tour the Roman Museum's exhibition galleries - View pottery, coins, jewellery, and skeletal remains from AD 43-410.

30-60 min Walk to the Roman theatre site in Butchery Lane - See the stone seating and stage foundations of a 2000-year-old structure.

60-90 min Discuss Roman Canterbury's trade, military, and daily life - Ask questions about the decline of Roman settlement and Anglo-Saxon transition.

Final 30 min Return to the museum for additional browsing time - Gift shop available for guidebooks and replicas of Roman objects.

The whole experience takes 2 hours. Difficulty: easy. You meet at Canterbury Roman Museum entrance.

• Roman theatre remains still partly visible underground
• Archaeologist explains layer-by-layer excavation methods
• Handling of actual Romano-British artefacts (pottery, coins)
• Understanding Canterbury's strategic role in Roman Britain
• Access to museum displays not visible from street level

What is included: 2-hour guided tour with qualified archaeologist, Entry to Canterbury Roman Museum, Access to theatre excavation site.

Not included: Refreshments and drinks, Additional museum guidebooks (available for purchase), Photography permissions for professional use. You will need to arrange these yourself.

What to bring: Waterproof jacket (outdoor sections), Comfortable walking shoes with grip, Notebook for recording details. Having these with you makes the experience smoother.

Best time to go: Late morning (10am-12pm) for better visibility of outdoor sites and fewer school groups.

Tip: Small groups only

Tip: Includes museum entry

Accessibility: Museum galleries are ground floor and accessible. Theatre site has uneven surfaces; not suitable for wheelchairs. Moderate walking required..

Operator: Canterbury Archaeological Trust

After this activity, these are within easy reach:

• Canterbury Roman Museum (Meeting point is here walk)
• Canterbury Cathedral (12 min walk walk)
• Canterbury Tales Experience (8 min walk walk)

This activity is run by Canterbury Archaeological Trust.

Cancellation policy: Free cancellation 48 hours before tour.

Accessibility: Museum galleries are ground floor and accessible. Theatre site has uneven surfaces; not suitable for wheelchairs. Moderate walking required..

Best time to go: Late morning (10am-12pm) for better visibility of outdoor sites and fewer school groups.

Do I need archaeological knowledge to join this tour?

No prior knowledge needed. The archaeologist explains all findings and methods clearly for beginners. If you have specialist questions, they're welcome to address them too.

Is the Roman theatre outdoor and exposed to weather?

Yes, the theatre site is mostly outdoors on Butchery Lane. Most is excavated but unroofed. The museum portion is indoors and climate-controlled. Bring waterproof gear.

Can children attend this tour?

Yes, but the academic content suits ages 10+. Younger children may find standing for 2 hours or detailed excavation explanations less engaging than the hands-on museum displays.