The Arbeia Roman Fort, situated in South Shields, Tyne and Wear, England, is a significant historical site. This ancient Roman fort was a part of the Hadrian's Wall system, marking the eastern end on the Tyne estuary. Founded around 160 AD, the fort guarded the main sea access to Hadrian's Wall and later became the wall's maritime supply fort. It was occupied until the Romans left Britain in the 5th century.
Rediscovered and first excavated in the 1870s, the Arbeia Roman Fort is now a significant tourist site. It is managed by Tyne and Wear Museums under the name Arbeia Roman Fort and Museum. The fort stands on Lawe Top, a height overlooking the mouth of the River Tyne, offering visitors a unique perspective of the area's historical landscape.
In 1986, the west gate of the fort was reconstructed to give visitors an idea of the monumentality of the place. Additionally, a Roman guardhouse, barracks, and the commander's house have been reconstructed on their original foundations. The guardhouse houses numerous exhibits related to the history of the fort, and its upper levels offer an overview of the archaeological site.
History & Anthropology Archaeology Historic house Maritime
Monday | 10:00 – 17:00 |
Tuesday | 10:00 – 17:00 |
Wednesday | 10:00 – 17:00 |
Thursday | 10:00 – 17:00 |
Friday | 10:00 – 17:00 |
Saturday | 11:00 – 16:00 |
Sunday | 13:00 – 16:00 |
Open until Sunday October 1, 2023. From October 2, 2023, Arbeia will be closed to the public and open only for pre-booked schools and groups, and special events. It will re-open to the public on Monday 25 March 2024.
Baring Street, South Shields
31 Mar 2025 – 28 Sept 2025
24 May 2025 – 7 Jun 2025
1 May 2025 – 14 May 2025
26 Apr 2025 – 9 May 2025
22 Feb 2025 – 1 Jun 2025
4 Aug 2024 – 28 Jun 2025
1 Nov 2014 – 1 Nov 2018
1 Nov 2014 – 1 Nov 2018
1 Nov 2014 – 1 Nov 2018
Arbeia Roman Fort and Museum has 1 rating.
Arbeia Roman Fort and Museum in South Shields, England, offers visitors an engaging look into Roman Britain. The site features reconstructed Roman buildings, including the commanding officer's house and a soldier's barrack block, which provide a tangible connection to the past. The museum houses a collection of artifacts discovered during excavations, giving insight into daily life during Roman occupation.
Visitors appreciate the well-preserved ruins and the opportunity to explore the foundations of the original fort. The reconstructed buildings are particularly praised for their detail and the way they bring history to life. The museum's exhibits are informative, showcasing items from pottery to jewelry, and helping to paint a picture of both military and civilian life in the area during Roman times.
On the downside, some visitors mention that the site is relatively small, which may not warrant a long journey for those coming from afar. Additionally, a few reviewers note that the museum portion could benefit from more interactive displays to engage younger visitors.
The fort's location offers pleasant views of the River Tyne, adding to the overall experience. Staff members are generally described as knowledgeable and friendly, enhancing the visit with their insights.
While Arbeia may not be as extensive as some other Roman sites in Britain, it is valued for its authenticity and the unique perspective it provides on the eastern end of Hadrian's Wall. The combination of outdoor ruins, reconstructed buildings, and indoor exhibits creates a well-rounded educational experience for history enthusiasts and casual visitors alike.
This rating is based on the rating of this museum on several other platforms.
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