East Wear Bay Roman Villa site - Image 1
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East Wear Bay Roman Villa

5
·1 reviews·, United Kingdom

Explore a significant Roman villa and its Iron Age past on dramatic cliffs with breathtaking sea views.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Summer mornings

Pleasant weather for exploring

CrowdMedium
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East Wear Bay Roman Villa site - Image 1

East Wear Bay Roman Villa

Best Time

Summer mornings

Pleasant weather for exploring

CrowdMedium
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Explore a significant Roman villa and its Iron Age past on dramatic cliffs with breathtaking sea views.

5
(1 reviews)

"Stepping back in time amidst some beautiful sea views! What a privilege to visit the Folkestone Roman Villa."

Vertical photo
TIP

Wear Sturdy Shoes

The terrain can be uneven and windy, so comfortable, supportive footwear is a must. :athletic_shoe:

Check for Access Days

The site is an active excavation. Look for public open days or guided tours for the best experience. :calendar:

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Roman Villa Excavation Site

Roman Villa Excavation Site

Explore the archaeological site of a significant Roman villa, uncovering layers of history.

Dramatic Cliffside Views

Dramatic Cliffside Views

Enjoy stunning panoramic views of the sea and coastline from the villa's elevated position.

Iron Age Discoveries

Iron Age Discoveries

Learn about the ongoing uncovering of an even older Iron Age story at the site.

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Planning Your Visit

Uncover Ancient History by the Sea

Explore the remnants of a significant Roman villa perched on the dramatic cliffs of East Wear Bay. Discover its Iron Age past and enjoy breathtaking sea views. Perfect for history buffs and those seeking coastal beauty.

Plan Your Visit to East Wear Bay

While the villa site is an active excavation, check for public access days or guided tours. Dress for coastal weather, as it can be windy. Wear sturdy shoes for exploring the cliffside.

Best Times

When
Summer mornings
Why
Pleasant weather for exploring
Crowd
Medium
When
Event days
Why
Guided tours and insights
Crowd
High

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Cracking day in the field with @canterburyarchaeologicaltrust at their East Wear Bay excavation. This was a really significant Roman villa site but there is also an even more interesting Iron Age story that the Trust will be uncovering over the next few years! It should be a site that presents lots of learning opportunities for @canterburyccuni students and the general public! Additionally the sig...
cccuarchaeology
83 likes • 2.3K views

Wear Sturdy Shoes

The terrain can be uneven and windy, so comfortable, supportive footwear is a must. :athletic_shoe:

Check for Access Days

The site is an active excavation. Look for public open days or guided tours for the best experience. :calendar:

Stepping back in time amidst some beautiful sea views! What a privilege to visit the Folkestone Roman Villa also known as the East Bay Site, perched dramatically on the cliffs of East Wear Bay. And who better to guide us than Andy, the archaeologist who’s been lovingly uncovering its secrets since the past few years! Set against the stunning backdrop of the English Channel (with France just vis...
sanakhurshid.official
26 likes • 748 views
#inwinboltswords Its the end of the day on the Friday 11th April 1924, the the first day of Samuel E. Winbolt's excavation of East Wear Bay Roman Villa. Here Ian recount's Winbolt's take on the day, including a couple of nice finds and having to work in a cold south-westerly wind on the cliffs - one hundred years later the weather's no different! If you want to be involved we're now looking for p...
folkestone_museum
6 likes • 231 views

Dress for Coastal Weather

Expect wind and changing conditions. Layers are recommended, even on sunny days. :cloud:

Enjoy the Views

Take time to soak in the incredible sea views from the cliff tops. :ocean:

Tips

from all over the internet

Wear Sturdy Shoes

The terrain can be uneven and windy, so comfortable, supportive footwear is a must. :athletic_shoe:

Check for Access Days

The site is an active excavation. Look for public open days or guided tours for the best experience. :calendar:

Dress for Coastal Weather

Expect wind and changing conditions. Layers are recommended, even on sunny days. :cloud:

Enjoy the Views

Take time to soak in the incredible sea views from the cliff tops. :ocean:

What Travellers Say

5
(1 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors are captivated by the stunning sea views from the cliffside location of the East Wear Bay Roman Villa. The historical significance of the Roman villa and the ongoing archaeological work are also highly praised, offering a glimpse into ancient life. Some visitors note the need for preparedness regarding coastal weather and site access.

"From the top of the cliffs there is an amazing view."

Tom's Reviews

What People Like

Amazing sea views
Historical significance
Archaeological insights

What People Dislike

Limited access
Coastal weather

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

East Wear Bay Roman Villa is located on the cliffs near Folkestone. Driving is the most common way to access the area, with parking available nearby. Public transport options might be limited, so check local bus routes. Instagram

Parking is typically available in the vicinity of East Wear Bay, though it may be limited during peak times. It's advisable to arrive early or consider alternative transport if possible. Instagram

Yes, the site is accessible by foot along the coastal paths. Be prepared for a scenic but potentially steep walk depending on your starting point. Instagram

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

As an active excavation site, access may be restricted. It's best to check with the Canterbury Archaeological Trust or Folkestone Museum for information on public access days or guided tours. TikTok

Opening hours are not fixed as it's an active archaeological site. Public access is usually limited to specific event days or guided tours. Always check in advance. TikTok

Entrance fees may apply for guided tours or special event days. For general viewing of the exterior and surrounding area, there is usually no fee, but access to the excavation itself is managed. TikTok

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

You can see the archaeological remains of a Roman villa, with ongoing excavations revealing its history. The site also offers stunning coastal views and is uncovering an older Iron Age story. TikTokInstagram

Children can enjoy the historical aspect and the coastal environment. However, supervision is essential due to the cliffside location and uneven terrain. TikTok

The best way is to join a guided tour if available, as archaeologists can provide in-depth insights. Otherwise, explore respectfully and be mindful of the ongoing excavation work. TikTokInstagram

Facilities are generally limited at active excavation sites. It's advisable to use restrooms before arriving and to be prepared for a more rustic experience. Instagram

📸 📸 Photography

The dramatic cliffside location offers fantastic opportunities for landscape photography, capturing the sea and coastline. The archaeological trenches themselves can also be visually interesting. Instagram

Generally, photography for personal use is allowed, but always be respectful of the archaeologists at work and any site-specific rules. Avoid using flash if it might disturb ongoing work. Instagram

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

East Wear Bay Roman Villa offers a unique opportunity for families to connect with history in a beautiful natural setting. While the site is an active excavation, children can be fascinated by the idea of uncovering ancient secrets. Encourage them to imagine life in Roman times and the people who lived there. The stunning sea views also provide a great distraction and a chance for outdoor exploration. TikTokInstagram

Practical tips for families: Ensure children wear sturdy shoes as the ground can be uneven. Dress in layers to adapt to the changeable coastal weather. While facilities might be limited, the adventure of exploring a historical site by the sea can be a memorable experience. Check for any family-friendly events or guided tours that might enhance their visit. Instagram

🏛️ History Enthusiasts

For history enthusiasts, East Wear Bay Roman Villa is a treasure trove. The ongoing excavations by the Canterbury Archaeological Trust mean there's always potential for new discoveries. Learning about both the Roman villa and the deeper Iron Age history provides a rich understanding of the region's past. TikTok

Key for enthusiasts: Seek out information on guided tours or open days to gain expert insights from archaeologists. Research the history of Samuel E. Winbolt's early excavations to appreciate the site's long research journey. The combination of archaeological significance and the dramatic coastal setting makes this a must-visit. Instagram+1

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The History of East Wear Bay Roman Villa

The East Wear Bay Roman Villa, also known as the Folkestone Roman Villa, is a significant archaeological site that offers a glimpse into Roman life in Britain. Excavations have revealed the foundations of a substantial Roman villa, indicating a wealthy and important settlement. The site's history stretches back even further, with evidence of an Iron Age presence that archaeologists are actively working to uncover. This dual history makes it a fascinating location for understanding the evolution of human settlement in the area. TikTokInstagram

Early excavations, such as those led by Samuel E. Winbolt in 1924, laid the groundwork for understanding the villa's layout and significance. These historical efforts, often conducted in challenging weather conditions, highlight the dedication of early archaeologists. Today, the Canterbury Archaeological Trust continues this work, employing modern techniques to delve deeper into the site's past, promising further revelations about both the Roman and Iron Age periods. TikTokInstagram

Visitors can appreciate the villa not just for its historical context but also for its stunning coastal location. Perched on the cliffs of East Wear Bay, the site offers panoramic views of the English Channel, adding a unique dimension to the archaeological experience. This combination of history and natural beauty makes East Wear Bay a compelling destination for anyone interested in the past and picturesque landscapes. Instagram

Exploring the Coastal Landscape

The dramatic cliffs of East Wear Bay provide a breathtaking backdrop to the Roman villa site. This elevated position offers spectacular sea views, making it a prime spot for photography and simply enjoying the coastal scenery. The rugged beauty of the coastline is a significant draw for visitors, complementing the historical discoveries. Instagram

When visiting, it's crucial to be prepared for the coastal weather. Winds can be strong and unpredictable, even on sunny days. Wearing layers and sturdy footwear is highly recommended to ensure comfort and safety while exploring the uneven terrain. The experience of standing on these ancient cliffs, overlooking the vast expanse of the sea, is truly memorable. Instagram+1

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