Dewa Roman Experience, Chester

The Dewa Roman Experience in Chester offers an immersive, hands-on journey back to Roman Britannia, right into the heart of the fortress of DEVA Victrix. Built nearly 2,000 years ago as part of the Roman Empire’s northern expansion, the fortress now lies beneath Chester, yet visitors can explore its rich history through archaeology, interactive exhibits, and cutting-edge storytelling.

This family-friendly attraction transforms visitors into active participants rather than passive observers. Interactive displays, audio-visual presentations, and real archaeological trenches bring Roman Chester to life, showcasing genuine artifacts like pottery, Roman armor, and relics from across the empire. The experience highlights how Romans lived and worked, with reconstructions of a Roman bathhouse, market street, and amphitheater, where gladiators once fought for survival.

For 30 years, the site has captivated visitors with an educational glimpse into one of Britain’s key Roman cities. Under new leadership, plans include digital innovations like projection mapping, holograms, and Augmented Reality to revive Chester’s Roman past. Led by Dr. Rob Philpott, the site emphasizes archaeological integrity, with artifacts bound for the Grosvenor Museum and efforts to ethically repatriate antiquities from North Africa and the Near East.

But the history here isn’t all serious! Roman-inspired food events, street performances by legionnaires, and a fresh emphasis on the stories of women and children in Roman Chester add excitement for all ages. Whether marching with soldiers, stepping into a gladiatorial arena, or simply marveling at the archaeological wonders beneath your feet, the Dewa Roman Experience ensures history is felt, not just seen.