Latest news with #NationalRomanLegionMuseum
Yahoo
08-08-2025
- Yahoo
The best free attractions in Newport, according to TripAdvisor
As the old saying goes, 'the best things in life are free.' Here are the three best attractions in Newport you can experience without spending a penny, according to Tripadvisor. 1. Caerleon Roman Fortress and Baths If you appreciate history, the Caerleon Roman Fortress and Baths are a great place to start. This is one of three permanent legionary fortresses in Britain, featuring the remains of an open-air swimming pool, a Roman amphitheatre and the legionary barracks. With 685 reviews and an average rating of 4.6 stars out of five, this historic site is a hit with the vast majority of locals who visit. A review from March 2025 wrote: 'We saw these Roman Baths on the same day we saw the baths in Bath and as good as those were, this was better. Maybe better is not the right word, different might be more accurate. 'Much smaller than the ones in Bath. The layout was different, and it was presented in a more relatable manner. 'They use imaging to give the appearance that there was still water in the baths, and you could almost feel what it was like. The only thing missing was necessarily a bad thing.' 2. National Roman Legion Museum The Romans seem popular in Newport because ranked number two is another site of Roman history, albeit the National Roman Legion Museum. The attraction has 596 reviews and an average rating of 4.6 stars out of five, supporting the notion that Roman history is fascinating. A review from June 2025 said: 'Staff are welcoming, friendly and helpful. A lovely little museum with a gorgeous garden. There are rooms at the back for schools and visitors. 'There is a toilet - the actual toilet is in a wooden box. If you lift the lid it turns into a modern toilet that you can use. There's also a lovely cat wandering around that's more than happy to jump on your lap for a cuddle, if you sit by her. 'Fascinating artefacts dotted around and if you are blest, you might see someone wandering around in Roman Uniform. Nice little gifts in the reception area too. Free to go in but you can give a donation if you want to.' 3. Newport Wetlands Third and final to mention are the Newport Wetlands. If nature is your thing, you can't go wrong with a brisk walk while admiring the marsh-like surroundings. A review from May 2025 said: 'Such a shame the cafe no longer serves freshly made food or good coffee. Lunch was a highlight of a visit in the past. Still a great place for a walk though.'
South Wales Argus
08-08-2025
- South Wales Argus
Newport best free attractions according to TripAdvisor
Here are the three best attractions in Newport you can experience without spending a penny, according to Tripadvisor. 1. Caerleon Roman Fortress and Baths If you appreciate history, the Caerleon Roman Fortress and Baths are a great place to start. This is one of three permanent legionary fortresses in Britain, featuring the remains of an open-air swimming pool, a Roman amphitheatre and the legionary barracks. With 685 reviews and an average rating of 4.6 stars out of five, this historic site is a hit with the vast majority of locals who visit. A review from March 2025 wrote: 'We saw these Roman Baths on the same day we saw the baths in Bath and as good as those were, this was better. Maybe better is not the right word, different might be more accurate. 'Much smaller than the ones in Bath. The layout was different, and it was presented in a more relatable manner. 'They use imaging to give the appearance that there was still water in the baths, and you could almost feel what it was like. The only thing missing was necessarily a bad thing.' 2. National Roman Legion Museum The Romans seem popular in Newport because ranked number two is another site of Roman history, albeit the National Roman Legion Museum. The attraction has 596 reviews and an average rating of 4.6 stars out of five, supporting the notion that Roman history is fascinating. A review from June 2025 said: 'Staff are welcoming, friendly and helpful. A lovely little museum with a gorgeous garden. There are rooms at the back for schools and visitors. 'There is a toilet - the actual toilet is in a wooden box. If you lift the lid it turns into a modern toilet that you can use. There's also a lovely cat wandering around that's more than happy to jump on your lap for a cuddle, if you sit by her. 'Fascinating artefacts dotted around and if you are blest, you might see someone wandering around in Roman Uniform. Nice little gifts in the reception area too. Free to go in but you can give a donation if you want to.' 3. Newport Wetlands Third and final to mention are the Newport Wetlands. If nature is your thing, you can't go wrong with a brisk walk while admiring the marsh-like surroundings. A review from May 2025 said: 'Such a shame the cafe no longer serves freshly made food or good coffee. Lunch was a highlight of a visit in the past. Still a great place for a walk though.'
South Wales Argus
03-08-2025
- Entertainment
- South Wales Argus
Caerleon's National Roman Legion Museum celebrates 175 years
Saturday saw the museum be taken over by a range of activities for all ages attended by gladiators and soldiers. The museum itself saw its courtyard transformed into an authentic Roman garden. A group of soldiers look over their courtyard (Image: NQ) Guests were able to immerse themselves in activities and feel like a real Roman. The smell of a makeshift kitchen wafted throughout the courtyard where guests prepared and ate their own flatbreads with dates and honey, just like a real Roman soldier, and could participate in their own feast. Gladiators patrolled the gardens, complete with armour and weaponry, ensuring that guests were enjoying themselves in the craft area. At the far end of the courtyard, guests could learn about Roman art and fashion, taking the chance to try on some roman finery and find out some more about family life at the time. A dig pit also allowed youngsters to get hands on with archaeology. Visitors from far and wide were in attendance during the day, using the sunshine as an excuse to bask in the amphitheatre and witness the gladiator's work. Children jumped at the chance to get involved, taking the gladiators on headfirst and learn the ropes of capturing and conquering their enemies. Alongside these activities, visitors could relax with games or learn circus acts. The day truly had something for everyone, whether you're a hands on energetic learner or prefer to peruse at your own pace. Gladiator fights took over the amphitheatre (Image: NRLM) Catherine Jenkins, a representative for the National Roman Legion Museum, said: 'We had 700 people register their interest to attend today. "Knowing that so many people are interested in what we do is incredible. 'We've been lucky enough to have a steady stream of these visitors across our sites through the day. 'We just hope that events like this remind people that we are here and open for business.' Alongside this weekend's anniversary party, the celebrations will continue throughout with a programme of events that will continue throughout the summer holidays and during the rest of the year.
South Wales Argus
30-07-2025
- Entertainment
- South Wales Argus
National Roman Legion Museum Caerleon to host free party
The National Roman Legion Museum in Caerleon, near Newport, will celebrate its 175th anniversary with a free Roman-themed party on Saturday, August 2, running from 10am to 5pm. Dai Price, head of the museum, said: "We're really looking forward to celebrating our 175th birthday in proper Roman style, and we'd love visitors far and wide to celebrate with us. "As well as our party on Saturday, August 2, we'll be continuing the celebrations with a programme of activities throughout the summer holidays and during the rest of the year." The day will feature gladiators, Roman soldiers, and re-enactments by the Ermine Street Guard. Visitors can also enjoy cookery demonstrations, Roman traders, crafts, games, mosaic making, a dig pit, and children's entertainment. Tours and talks will take place throughout the day. Guests are encouraged to dress in Roman costumes and take part in a themed catwalk. The event will take place at the museum, the amphitheatre, and nearby St Cadoc's Church.
Yahoo
29-07-2025
- Entertainment
- Yahoo
Roman gladiators, soldiers and catwalk at 175th birthday bash
A museum is throwing a birthday bash in true Roman style. The National Roman Legion Museum in Caerleon, near Newport, will celebrate its 175th anniversary with a free Roman-themed party on Saturday, August 2, running from 10am to 5pm. Dai Price, head of the museum, said: "We're really looking forward to celebrating our 175th birthday in proper Roman style, and we'd love visitors far and wide to celebrate with us. "As well as our party on Saturday, August 2, we'll be continuing the celebrations with a programme of activities throughout the summer holidays and during the rest of the year." The day will feature gladiators, Roman soldiers, and re-enactments by the Ermine Street Guard. Visitors can also enjoy cookery demonstrations, Roman traders, crafts, games, mosaic making, a dig pit, and children's entertainment. Tours and talks will take place throughout the day. Guests are encouraged to dress in Roman costumes and take part in a themed catwalk. The event will take place at the museum, the amphitheatre, and nearby St Cadoc's Church.
