Canterbury Roman Museum
Step underground to discover Canterbury's Roman past, featuring stunning mosaics and interactive exhibits on daily life.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more relaxed
Canterbury Roman Museum
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more relaxed
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Step underground to discover Canterbury's Roman past, featuring stunning mosaics and interactive exhibits on daily life.
"A great little place taking you back and literally down (to the old Roman Street level) in history."
⏳ Allow an Hour
You'll need about 60 minutes to explore the museum thoroughly. :stopwatch:
👨👩👧👦 Kid-Friendly Fun
Interactive sections like dressing up and Roman games make it great for children. :child:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Original Roman Mosaics
Main Exhibition Hall
Marvel at stunning, in-situ Roman mosaics that vividly depict ancient life and artistry.
Everyday Roman Life
Interactive Displays
Learn about Roman food, clothing, and games through engaging, hands-on exhibits.
Excavated Roman House
Underground Level
Walk amongst the remains of a Roman house, offering a literal step back into history.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Step Back in Time
Plan Your Visit
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
⏳ Allow an Hour
You'll need about 60 minutes to explore the museum thoroughly. :stopwatch:
👨👩👧👦 Kid-Friendly Fun
Interactive sections like dressing up and Roman games make it great for children. :child:
💰 Value for Money
While small, it's informative. Consider it part of a larger Canterbury exploration. :moneybag:
📍 Central Location
Easily accessible and a perfect stop during a day trip to Canterbury. :round_pushpin:
Tips
from all over the internet
⏳ Allow an Hour
You'll need about 60 minutes to explore the museum thoroughly. :stopwatch:
👨👩👧👦 Kid-Friendly Fun
Interactive sections like dressing up and Roman games make it great for children. :child:
💰 Value for Money
While small, it's informative. Consider it part of a larger Canterbury exploration. :moneybag:
📍 Central Location
Easily accessible and a perfect stop during a day trip to Canterbury. :round_pushpin:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise the Canterbury Roman Museum for its fascinating exhibits, especially the original mosaics and interactive elements that engage children. While some find it a bit small for the price, most agree it's an informative and enjoyable way to spend an hour exploring Roman history.
"It was a really good museum. Really enjoyed the various exhibits. There is plenty of hands on sections for kids to enjoy. For instance dressing up and playing a roman game."
Amrita Bindukalpa
"What can I say? This museum is absolutely fantastic!
It elegantly tells the story of the lives that were once lived there and whose traces are now beneath the charming Canterbury city centre.
It talks all about its Celtic native peoples, its Roman settlements, its Christianisation, its eventual downfall and the later Anglo-Saxon settlement and relevance to the modern day.
History lovers in or around Canterbury ought not to miss this one. Archelogical findings are beautifully displayed and accurately explained so that no detail of our ancestors' lives goes unnoticed.
It also reconstructs ancient Roman house culture telling about the food they ate, the clothes they wore, the games they played and talks respectfully about the native Gods & Goddesses these people held dear in their hearts.
And as a contemporary Pagan, that was especially important to me personally.
I highly recommend this to anyone interested in the pre-medieval history of Canterbury!"
Daniël Zikarno
"A great little place taking you back and literally down (to the old Roman Street level) in history. Awesome to see original mosaics in place and learn about everyday Roman life as well as the rise and fall of Roman Canterbury. It is bonkers how different Canterbury was and not that long ago.
That said this is no Bath Roman Baths so don't go expecting anywhere near an equivalent experience."
Sean Wright
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The easiest way is by train from London St Pancras International or London Charing Cross to Canterbury West. The journey takes about 50-60 minutes. From Canterbury West station, it's a short walk to the museum. Many visitors find Canterbury an ideal day trip from London. +1
Parking in Canterbury city centre can be challenging and expensive. It's recommended to use public transport or park in one of the city's Park & Ride facilities and then walk or take a local bus.
Yes, the museum is centrally located and a pleasant walk from Canterbury Cathedral, taking around 5-10 minutes.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Opening hours can vary seasonally. It's best to check the official Canterbury Museums & Galleries website for the most up-to-date information before your visit.
Admission fees apply, and some visitors have noted it can be a little pricey for the size of the museum. Check the official website for current ticket prices.
While not always mandatory, booking tickets in advance is often recommended, especially during busy periods or school holidays, to guarantee entry and avoid queues.
The museum is largely accessible, but as it's subterranean, some areas might have limitations. It's advisable to contact the museum directly to confirm accessibility details for specific needs.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Most visitors spend around 45 minutes to an hour exploring the museum. It's a compact but informative experience.
Yes, the museum offers several hands-on activities for children, including dressing up in Roman costumes and playing Roman games, making it engaging for younger visitors.
You can see a variety of archaeological finds, including original Roman mosaics in situ, pottery, jewelry, and reconstructed elements of Roman life.
Generally, photography for personal use is allowed, but flash photography is usually prohibited to protect the artifacts. Always check for specific signage within the museum.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Canterbury city centre is packed with cafes, pubs, and restaurants offering a wide range of dining options, from quick bites to sit-down meals. +1
It's generally not permitted to consume food or drinks inside the museum exhibits to preserve the artifacts. There are usually designated areas or cafes nearby.
📸 📸 Photography
The most striking photo opportunities are the original Roman mosaics, which are beautifully preserved. The underground setting also offers a unique atmosphere for photos.
While personal photography is usually fine, commercial photography or filming may require special permission. Always be mindful of other visitors and avoid flash photography.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider visiting on a weekday morning to avoid the biggest crowds. Combine your visit with a picnic in nearby Westgate Gardens
🚶 Day-Trippers from London
Make sure to check the museum's opening hours and consider booking tickets online to save time. Pair your visit with lunch at one of the many local pubs or cafes
🏛️ History Enthusiasts
While not as grand as some larger Roman sites, its focused presentation and the unique underground setting make it a compelling visit. It's an ideal complement to exploring Canterbury Cathedral and other historical landmarks in the city.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Unearthing Roman Canterbury
The museum doesn't just focus on grand structures; it delves into the everyday lives of Roman Britons. Through displays of pottery, jewelry, and reconstructed elements, you can learn about their diet, clothing, and leisure activities. The exhibits are designed to be both educational and engaging, making history accessible to all ages. It's a chance to understand how Canterbury, then known as Durovernum Cantiacorum, was a significant settlement in Roman Britain.
While it might not be as expansive as the Roman Baths in Bath, the Canterbury Roman Museum provides a concentrated and impactful experience. It's a testament to the rich archaeological heritage lying beneath the surface of this historic city, offering a different perspective on Canterbury's long and layered history.
Making History Fun for Kids
Furthermore, interactive games based on Roman pastimes are available, providing a fun and engaging way for kids to learn about Roman culture and entertainment. These elements are crucial for sparking curiosity and ensuring that the visit is not just educational but also memorable and exciting for families.
This focus on interactive learning makes the museum a standout attraction for families visiting Canterbury, transforming a potentially dry subject into an adventure. It’s a great way to supplement school learning or simply introduce children to the wonders of archaeology and ancient history in a playful environment.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit