The porticoed entrance to the National Roman Legion Museum (Chris Harris)
Step back in time at the National Roman Legion Museum and explore life in a far-flung outpost of the mighty Roman Empire.
Wales was the furthest outpost of the Roman Empire. Built in AD 75, Caerleon, called Isca Augusta by the Romans, was one of only three permanent legionary bases in Britain, and guarded the region for over 200 years.
Learn what made the Romans a formidable force and how life wouldn't be the same without them. You'll be able to see exhibitions and artefacts that show us how they lived, fought, worshipped and died.
Enjoy the sights, sounds and smells of the beautiful Roman Garden. At weekends and school holidays, children can explore a full-sized barrack room, try on replica armour and experience the life of a Roman soldier.
The museum is located in the centre of the ancient Roman fortress, on a road leading to the most complete amphitheatre in Britain. A short walk from the museum is part of the Roman military bath house, a section of the fortress walls and the remains of the legionary barracks, the only ones on view anywhere in Europe.
The original museum building was constructed in 1850, although the building was rebuilt in 1987 and all that remains now is the impressive pillared porticoed entrance.
Caerleon Roman amphitheatre (Chris Harris)
More information
For more information about the Romans in south Wales, and to see a replica of the Goldcliff Stone, visit Newport Museum.
High St
Caerleon
Newport NP18 1AE
OS Grid Ref: ST 216783
Website
Opening times
10am–5pmOpen for four days per week – every Wednesday, Thursday, Friday, and Saturday (including Bank Holiday Mondays).