Richborough Roman Fort and Amphitheatre
Explore the 'Gateway to Britannia,' where Roman legions first landed in 43 AD. Discover ancient ditches, fort walls, and a museum.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more peaceful exploration
Richborough Roman Fort and Amphitheatre
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more peaceful exploration
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Explore the 'Gateway to Britannia,' where Roman legions first landed in 43 AD. Discover ancient ditches, fort walls, and a museum.
"A must-see for Roman history lovers, offering a tangible connection to Britain's Roman past."
🎧 Audio Guide Essential
The audio guide provides expert commentary on construction and use, bringing the ruins to life.
🚶♀️ Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be walking around a large historical site, so sturdy footwear is a must. [:athletic_shoe:]
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Original Roman Ditches
Fortification area
Walk through the very ditches dug by the Roman army in 43 AD, a tangible connection to the invasion of Britain.
The Roman Fort Walls
Perimeter of the fort
Explore the substantial remains of the Saxon Shore fortress, a testament to Roman engineering and defense.
Museum and Artifacts
On-site museum
Discover artifacts unearthed from the site, offering insights into daily Roman life and the fort's history.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Gateway to Britannia
English Heritage Membership
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎧 Audio Guide Essential
The audio guide provides expert commentary on construction and use, bringing the ruins to life.
🚶♀️ Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be walking around a large historical site, so sturdy footwear is a must. [:athletic_shoe:]
🚗 Free Parking Available
Convenient on-site parking is available and free for visitors. [:car:]
🗺️ Get the Guidebook
Consider the guidebook for better orientation, especially if you're keen on details.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎧 Audio Guide Essential
The audio guide provides expert commentary on construction and use, bringing the ruins to life.
🚶♀️ Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be walking around a large historical site, so sturdy footwear is a must. [:athletic_shoe:]
🚗 Free Parking Available
Convenient on-site parking is available and free for visitors. [:car:]
🗺️ Get the Guidebook
Consider the guidebook for better orientation, especially if you're keen on details.
📱 Check EH Membership
If you visit multiple English Heritage sites, membership is cost-effective.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise Richborough Roman Fort for its significant historical importance as the 'Gateway to Britannia' and the well-preserved Roman structures. The audio guide and on-site museum are frequently highlighted as excellent resources for understanding the site's past. While some note it might not have 'much' for those with low expectations, history lovers find it fascinating and well worth a visit.
"Part of the English Heritage ... well worth getting a subscription if you are in Kent there are so many EH sites to see
Richborough has a great audio guide so you get an expert to explain how the buildings were constructed and used. There is also a small exhibition showing artifacts from the site.
Amazing how far it is now from the sea considering it was build at the seafront (the coast had moved not the fort 😀)"
Emma Darbyshire
"I didn’t realise this was an English Heritage site so was pleasantly surprised when I came here. My friend and I were greeted by a friendly member of staff whom offered me a discount to become a member. I am now! There is a museum here as well which was very interesting to look through. You then go out and can have a leisurely walk around the fort. A whole wealth of information on the boards as well. Fascinating to know this was the gateway to Britannica!! There is a car park here but it’s free. Added bonus is there are toilets here. Now these are compostable toilets, your waste helps the planet! Was weird not flushing though 😂
I would definitely come back here again. As a Roman history lover it is a must see. Thank you for an enjoyable experience!"
Kathryn Hall
"Before entering I read a review which said there wasn’t much here - well it depends on expectations! I would recommend the guidebook to get your bearings although the usual panels are available. The site is quite big and is a really interesting one for those interested in Roman Britain, Richborough being an important port. It was easy to imagine what the site looked like through the centuries. Really enjoyed this one! Recommended!"
Hannah
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Richborough Roman Fort is located near Sandwich in Kent. It's accessible by car, with free parking available on-site. Public transport options are limited, so driving is often the most convenient way to reach the site.
The fort is well-signposted from the main roads in the area. Follow the signs for Richborough and English Heritage.
The nearest train stations are Sandwich and Deal. From these stations, you would typically need to arrange a taxi or local bus service to reach the fort, as direct public transport links are infrequent.
Yes, cycling is an option if you are in the local area. There are cycle routes that can lead you to Richborough, and you can secure your bike on-site. [:bike:]
The site has some accessible paths, but due to the nature of the historical terrain, some areas may be challenging. It's advisable to contact English Heritage directly for the most up-to-date accessibility information. [:wheelchair:]
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Admission fees apply for non-members of English Heritage. It's recommended to check the official English Heritage website for the most current ticket prices and opening hours.
Yes, tickets can usually be purchased on the day of your visit. However, booking in advance online is often recommended, especially during peak season, to guarantee entry and potentially save time. [:ticket:]
English Heritage offers various discounts, including for seniors, students, and families. Membership provides free entry to all English Heritage sites.
Opening hours vary seasonally. Always check the official English Heritage website for the most accurate and up-to-date opening times before your visit. [:clock:]
Absolutely! Richborough Roman Fort is an excellent destination for a day trip, offering a fascinating historical experience that can be thoroughly explored in a few hours.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
You can explore the remains of the Roman fort, including its substantial walls and ditches, visit the on-site museum with artifacts, and learn about its history as the 'Gateway to Britannia'.
A typical visit can take around 2-3 hours, allowing time to explore the fort, museum, and listen to the audio guide.
Yes, there is usually a gift shop at English Heritage sites, offering souvenirs, books, and historical replicas. [:gift_heart:]
Yes, there are toilet facilities available on-site. Some visitors have noted they are compostable toilets.
Photography is generally permitted for personal use. Drones may require special permission, so check with English Heritage if you plan to fly one.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Typically, English Heritage sites do not have extensive dining facilities. It's advisable to bring your own picnic or plan to eat at a nearby cafe or restaurant in Sandwich or Deal. [:sandwich:]
Yes, picnics are usually welcome at English Heritage sites. There are often designated areas or open spaces where you can enjoy your meal amidst the historical surroundings. [:picnic_sun:]
The nearby towns of Sandwich and Deal offer a variety of pubs, cafes, and restaurants for a meal after your visit. [:forkandknife:]
📸 📸 Photography
The remaining fort walls, the original ditches, and aerial views offer great photographic opportunities. The surrounding landscape also provides scenic backdrops.
Drone usage typically requires prior permission from English Heritage. It's best to contact them directly to inquire about regulations and obtain any necessary permits.
Late afternoons often provide beautiful golden hour light, enhancing the textures of the ruins. Early mornings can also be good for fewer crowds and softer light.
General photography for personal use is usually allowed. However, commercial photography or filming may require special arrangements and permissions. [:camerawithflash:]
Tripods are generally permitted for personal photography, but it's always a good idea to be mindful of other visitors and avoid obstructing pathways. [:camerawithflash:]
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider bringing a picnic to enjoy on the grounds, making it a full day out. The audio guide can also be adapted to be more engaging for younger visitors, bringing the history to life in an accessible way. Remember comfortable shoes for exploring the expansive site. [:athleticshoe:] [:picnicsun:]
🏛️ History Enthusiasts
The audio guide is highly recommended for its expert insights into the construction and evolution of the fort. Exploring the site allows for a profound connection to a pivotal moment in British history, making it a must-visit for any serious history buff.
🚶♀️ Solo Travelers
With free parking and facilities like toilets, it's a convenient and self-sufficient destination. The nearby towns of Sandwich and Deal offer charming places to eat or stay if you're extending your trip. [:camerawithflash:] [:sandwich:]
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Roman Invasion of Britain
This strategic location, then a bustling port, served as the 'Gateway to Britannia' for centuries. The fort itself was later rebuilt as a Saxon Shore fort, a testament to its continued importance in defending the coastline. Exploring Richborough allows you to walk in the footsteps of Roman legionaries and understand the scale of their ambition.
Archaeological finds at Richborough have provided invaluable insights into Roman military life, trade, and settlement. The on-site museum showcases some of these artifacts, offering a tangible connection to the people who lived and worked here millennia ago.
Exploring the Fortifications
Later, the site was redeveloped into a Saxon Shore fort, a network of coastal defenses built in the late 3rd century AD to protect against sea-borne raiders. The scale of these fortifications, even in ruins, conveys the strategic importance of Richborough throughout different periods of Roman occupation.
Walking around the site, you can easily imagine the bustling port and military complex that once stood here. The vastness of the area and the surviving structures offer a compelling glimpse into Roman Britain's defensive capabilities and its role as a vital entry point to the province.
The Richborough Museum and Artifacts
Among the exhibits, you might find pottery shards, coins, tools, and personal items that tell stories of the people who lived here. The museum helps to contextualize the ruins, transforming the stone structures into a vibrant historical narrative.
Curators like those featured in English Heritage's 'Show and Tell' series highlight the significance of these objects, explaining their origins and what they reveal about Roman Britain. This collection is essential for a deeper understanding of Richborough's role as a major Roman port and military base.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit