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Arbeia Roman Fort and Museum and its collection

Arbeia Roman Fort and Museum
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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.

Rediscovery and Current Status of Arbeia Roman Fort

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.

Reconstructions at Arbeia Roman Fort

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.

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NLArbeia
DEArbeia
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ENArbeia Roman Fort and Museum - Tyne and Wear Archives and Museums

History & Anthropology History & Anthropology Archaeology Historic house Maritime

#99 Free museums in England #79 Archaeology museums in England #38 Maritime museums in England #137 Free museums in United Kingdom #102 Archaeology museums in United Kingdom #46 Maritime museums in United Kingdom #138 Maritime museums in Europe

#99 Free museums in England #79 Archaeology museums in England #38 Maritime museums in England #137 Free museums in United Kingdom #102 Archaeology museums in United Kingdom #46 Maritime museums in United Kingdom #138 Maritime museums in Europe
Arbeia Roman Fort and Museum
Baring Street
NE33 2BB South Shields

Images of Arbeia Roman Fort and Museum

Visitor information Arbeia Roman Fort and Museum

Opening hours

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.

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Admission

0+Free
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Facilities

Wheelchair accessible
Museum shop

Location & Map

Baring Street, South Shields

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Exhibitions

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Arbeia Roman Fort and Museum Reviews

Arbeia Roman Fort and Museum has 1 rating.

  • Apollo's Insights AI-Generated

    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.

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