Today, Alcester is a peaceful market town famous for its Tudor and Georgian high street. However, beneath the modern pavement lies a bustling Roman town named Alauna. Established in the 1st century AD, Alauna was a vital military and trading outpost. If you are looking for Roman Alcester history things to do, your first stop must be the Alcester Roman Heritage Centre, situated just a 20-minute walk or a 3-minute drive from Kings Court Hotel.
Alauna: The Hidden Roman Metropolis
During the Roman occupation of Britain, Alcester was one of the largest towns in the region, serving as a crossroads for major Roman roads, including Ryknild Street. It featured a large stone fort, a walled town centre, and sprawling suburbs filled with workshops, granaries, and temples. Archaeological digs over the last century have unearthed a treasure trove of artefacts that tell the story of daily Roman life in Warwickshire.
Discovering Finds at the Alcester Roman Heritage Centre
Located on Globe House, the Heritage Centre houses an interactive museum displaying local archaeological finds. It is the perfect family-friendly educational destination:
- Pottery and Glassware: Admire beautifully preserved Samian ware imported from Gaul and delicate Roman glassware.
- Roman Coinage: View the collection of bronze and silver coins that circulated in Alcester's markets 1,800 years ago.
- Interactive Tudor House: Learn how the town's history transitioned from Roman settlement to Tudor market town.
"The Roman Heritage Centre brings the ancient citizens of Alauna to life. You can see the actual keys they used to lock their doors and the jewellery they wore."
Top Roman History Things to Do in Alcester
Make a full day of your historical exploration with these local activities:
- Visit the Heritage Centre: Open Tuesday through Friday (and Saturday mornings). Entrance is free, making it a great budget-friendly stop.
- Take a Roman Town Walk: Grab a historical map from the heritage centre and walk the old boundaries of Ryknild Street and the River Arrow.
- Explore Local Architecture: Spot how Roman stone blocks were reused in the foundations of medieval buildings around the high street.
After a day of exploring Alcester's ancient roots, return to Kings Court Hotel to unwind with a modern craft ale by the fireplace in our cozy Twisted Boot Pub.
