Are you planning a family trip to the south of England and looking for a unique historical site to visit? Look no further than Fishbourne Roman Palace & Gardens!
Family Days Out recently visited this amazing historic attraction, so we couldn't wait to share what we discovered!
So what is the history?
The palace's construction is believed to have started in the mid-first century AD, under the orders of King Cogidubnus, a client king of the Roman Empire. It was built as a grand residence for him and his Romanized family and court. However, by the late first century AD, the palace had become a public building for the use of the local Roman governor.
The palace was a grand structure with a central courtyard, surrounded by rooms and corridors, decorated with stunning mosaics and wall paintings. The palace was also equipped with an extensive bath complex, including hot and cold rooms, a tepidarium, and a frigidarium, reflecting the luxurious lifestyle of the Roman elite.
The palace's garden replicates what the gardens would have looked like during the Roman period, including a formal garden, a herb garden, and a water garden. The garden was used for both leisure and practical purposes, such as growing medicinal herbs and providing food for the palace's inhabitants.
In the 3rd century AD, the palace was abandoned and fell into disrepair. It was later used as a burial ground, and parts of the palace were used as a quarryfor building materials. It wasn't until the 20th century that the palace was rediscovered and restored to its former glory.
Visiting Fishbourne Roman Palace and Gardens with kids is not just a history lesson, but an interactive experience that will bring the past to life. From exploring the intricate mosaics to dressing up in Roman costumes, your children will have a blast while learning about the fascinating history of the Roman Empire in Britain.
Don't miss out on this unique opportunity to step back in time and discover the wonders of Fishbourne Roman Palace and Gardens. The gardens are just beautiful, so it's also worth considering visiting across all seasons, and if you Gift Aid your ticket, your admission is valid for a year!
What can kids enjoy at the Roman Palace?
This ancient palace was discovered in the 1960s during construction work and has since been transformed into a fascinating attraction that will transport you and your family back in time to the Roman era. With interactive exhibits, beautifully landscaped gardens, and even a chance to dress up in Roman attire, Fishbourne Roman Palace is a must-visit destination for families interested in history and culture. Keep reading to find out what makes this site so special and how to make the most of your visit with kids.
Visiting Fishbourne Roman Palace and Gardens is an exciting and educational experience for the whole family. Kids will love exploring the palace and learning about the history of the Romans in Britain. They can even dress up in Roman costumes and take part in interactive activities like mosaic making.
The palace also hosts seasonal events and workshops, so be sure to check their website before planning your visit. From Roman cookery to storytelling, there's always something happening at Fishbourne.
How much are the tickets?
Tickets for Fishbourne Roman Palace can be purchased online or on-site. The admission prices vary depending on your age, with discounts available for children, seniors, and students. Children under five can enter for free, while adults and children over five years old pay a small fee.
For families, there are also family tickets available that offer a discounted rate for groups of two adults and up to three children. These tickets can be purchased online or on-site, and they provide a great way for families to save some money on their visit.
If you're planning to visit Fishbourne Roman Palace multiple times, it may be worth considering an annual pass. These passes offer unlimited entry to the palace for one year from the date of purchase, and they can be a great option for families who live locally or who plan to visit the area more than once.
Overall, the admission prices and ticket options at Fishbourne Roman Palace are reasonable and offer great value for families. Whether you purchase your tickets in advance or on-site, you're sure to have a wonderful time exploring the palace and learning about ancient Rome.
Overall thoughts
Overall, we had a brilliant time at Fishbourne Roman Palace. It's even more impressive when you realise that only 1/4 of the Palace and gardens has been uncovered. The rest lie underneath the nearby residential road, so it's fun to use your imagination and wonder what might be still there!
The gift shop is great to visit, and there is also a cute second hand book store near the car park which is worth stopping by too.
If you love history, then you will love Fishbourne Roman Palace!
Visiting Fishbourne Roman Palace & Gardens with Kids: FAQ
Fishbourne Roman Palace & Gardens is located in West Sussex, England. To get to Fishbourne Roman Palace & Gardens, there are a few transportation options available. If you're driving, there is a car park on site that costs £3 per car. Alternatively, you can take public transportation by taking the train to Chichester and then catching the number 56 bus towards Emsworth. Get off at Fishbourne Church, and from there it's just a short walk to the palace. Once you arrive, you'll need to purchase tickets to enter. Ticket prices vary, but discounts are available for children, seniors, and families. You can purchase tickets online in advance or at the ticket office on site. Guided tours and group visits are also available, so be sure to check the website for more information.
This historic site offers a unique glimpse into the lives of the ancient Romans who once called Britain home. At Fishbourne Roman Palace & Gardens, you can explore the remains of a once-grand Roman palace, which dates back to the 1st century AD. The site includes a number of impressive features, such as a beautifully-preserved mosaic floor, a heated swimming pool, and even a Roman underfloor heating system! But the palace isn't the only attraction at Fishbourne Roman Palace & Gardens. The site also features a stunning garden, which has been painstakingly reconstructed to reflect the way it would have looked in Roman times. You can take a leisurely stroll through the garden, admiring the many plants and flowers, and even trying your hand at some Roman-style gardening techniques! For families with kids, there are plenty of interactive exhibits and activities to keep everyone engaged. There's even a Roman-themed playground, where kids can climb, slide, and play while learning about history! So if you're looking for a fun and educational activity that the whole family can enjoy, why not pay a visit to Fishbourne Roman Palace & Gardens? You're sure to have a blast exploring this fascinating piece of history!
Fishbourne Roman Palace & Gardens are open from 10am to 6pm daily during peak season (April to October). However, during the off-peak season (November to March), the palace and gardens close a bit earlier, at 4pm. Keep in mind that the last entry to the site is 45 minutes before closing time, so make sure to plan your visit accordingly. And don't forget to check the website or give them a quick call to confirm the opening hours before you head out - you wouldn't want to show up when they're closed!
Yes, there is a cafe located within Fishbourne Roman Palace & Gardens! It's the perfect spot to take a break from exploring and enjoy a hot cup of coffee or a delicious snack. The cafe offers a variety of options to suit all tastes, from sandwiches and salads to cakes and pastries. They even have some Roman-inspired treats on the menu, so you can indulge in a bit of history alongside your refreshments. Plus, the indoor and outdoor seating areas provide a lovely setting to relax and take in the beautiful surroundings. So, whether you're visiting with kids or on your own, be sure to take advantage of the cafe at Fishbourne Roman Palace & Gardens!
Fishbourne Roman Palace & Gardens is an ancient Roman palace that dates back to the first century AD. The palace was discovered in 1960, and since then, it has been restored and turned into a museum. The palace was originally built as a residence for a high-ranking Roman official, and it was a luxurious palace with mosaic floors and underfloor heating. The palace had a central courtyard, with rooms arranged around it. The palace was also surrounded by beautiful gardens, which were used for growing fruits and vegetables. The palace was used by the Romans until the fourth century AD, when it was abandoned. Over the years, the palace fell into disrepair, and the site was eventually built over. Today, visitors to Fishbourne Roman Palace & Gardens can explore the museum and see the remains of the palace and the gardens. The museum has a collection of Roman artifacts, including mosaics, pottery, and coins. Visitors can also see a reconstruction of the palace and gardens, which gives a sense of what life was like in ancient Rome. In addition to the museum, Fishbourne Roman Palace & Gardens also has a café and a gift shop. The site is open year-round, and there are often special events and activities for families. Your kids will love exploring the ancient palace and gardens, and you'll all learn something new about Roman history. Plus, the café offers a great selection of food and drinks, so you can relax and enjoy the beautiful surroundings. Don't forget to check out the gift shop for some souvenirs to take home with you. A visit to Fishbourne Roman Palace & Gardens is sure to be a memorable experience for the whole family!
Lisa Downs
Lisa has been a content writer for Family Days Out for nearly 10 years, and a keen travel writer for nearly 20. She loves experiencing the best of a city, discovering the many things to do and immersing herself in the culture, and sharing these experiences with others through her writing.
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