/ Hampshire Trip Activities / Step Back Into Roman Britain
Silchester Roman Walls offer a unique opportunity for pupils to step directly into the past. As one of the best-preserved Roman towns in Britain, the site allows youngsters to trace the massive flint and stone fortifications that once protected Calleva Atrebatum. This visit provides a perfect balance of outdoor exploration and educational discovery, making it a highlight for any school residential. Students can marvel at the engineering required to build such enduring structures while enjoying the fresh air of the Hampshire countryside.
The site serves as a living classroom where learning topics such as Romans, Castles and Defences, and Local History come to life. Beyond the walls, the nearby amphitheatre offers a tangible connection to ancient social life and entertainment. Walking the circuit of the walls encourages youngsters to use their imaginations to rebuild the town as it once was, fostering a deeper understanding of Ancient Civilisations and the transition to later eras like the Saxons.
For school groups seeking a mix of fun and academic value, the venue is an ideal setting for Literature and Creative Writing projects or studies into Animals, Habitats and Biodiversity. The peaceful environment allows students to investigate how nature has reclaimed the flint ruins, creating a rich ecosystem. Whether they are hunting for clues of the past or simply enjoying a walk along the historic trail, pupils will leave with lasting memories of their time in Roman Britain.
Here's some of the most frequently-asked questions about school visits to Silchester Roman Walls, posed by teachers and other group leaders
Sturdy footwear is essential as the paths around the walls can be uneven, muddy, or slippery depending on the weather.
The site is situated within a working farm and often contains grazing livestock. It is vital that students keep to the paths, do not climb on the fragile Roman flint-work, and ensure all gates are kept closed.
There are no public toilets
There are no first aid facilities