Roman Archaeology Open Day
Date
27th September 2025
Location
Cumbria
Visitors got to see Roman Britain – while it was being uncovered!
For two days, the excavations at Brocavum were opened to local schools, families, history enthusiasts and curious locals. Guests saw the latest discoveries about Roman life near Brougham, enjoyed hands‑on activities, joined guided tours, and viewed fascinating artefacts uncovered during the excavation.
The Roman speaker and all the staff were very friendly”
Visitor feedback
Visitors had the rare opportunity to explore the excavation site alongside the archaeologists who helped uncover it. From newly discovered buildings to artefacts fresh from the ground, guests enjoyed a ‘first look’ at 2000 year-old brooches, beads, coins, glass vessels and more.
Roman reenactor Nigel Apperley helped bring the past to life, showcasing cavalry armour, weapons and stories of daily Roman life. The Roman coin-making activity was a hit with visitors of all ages. While the map-game showed how pottery discovered on site had arrived outside Penrith from all across the Roman Empire.
It was a fantastic day of sharing discoveries, and the team is already looking forward to welcoming everyone to the next open event!
Image: visitor sharing their coin
I liked it all – I liked the variety of things to learn / to do.”
Visitor feedback
Nigel Apperley showing replica arrows
Pottery display case
Sharing the finds from site
Making a Roman coin from clay
Comparing replicas with artefacts found on site
Getting inspiration for making Roman coins
Archaeologist with pottery discovered during the dig
Roman surfaces exposed during excavation
Resources
If you would like to continue the learning at home or in school, you can download some of the activities below.
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A66 Spotters Guide |
(250.46 KB) |
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Creative Writing Prompt |
(3.78 MB) |
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vnd.openxmlformats-officedocument.presentationml.presentation |
Roman Coin Making Activity |
(23.86 MB) |
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vnd.openxmlformats-officedocument.presentationml.presentation |
Finds Mapping Activity |
(5.28 MB) |