The Romans are back at the Chester House Estate this July
Culture and tourism13 July 2026
Families looking for things to do in Northamptonshire this summer are being encouraged to book now for Roman Fest 2026 at The Chester House Estate - one of the county's most popular free heritage events and a highlight of the summer holiday calendar.
Taking place over an action-packed weekend on Saturday 25 and Sunday 26 July, Roman Fest brings together archaeology, living history, family entertainment and hands-on activities in the unique surroundings of Northamptonshire's nationally significant Roman landscape at The Chester House Estate. Brought to you by the archaeological teams from The ARC (Archaeological Research Centre) and the University of Leicester.
For this special weekend, the Estate is transformed and taken back in time to the Roman period.
Visitors can enjoy seeing Roman military soldiers walking throughout the Estate, and also to experience them in live combat simulations on the battlefield! There will also be plenty of ancient crafts, interactive workshops, excavation experiences and heritage activities suitable for all ages, making it one of the best free family days out in Northamptonshire and a must-visit event for history lovers.
More than 30 museums, community organisations and heritage groups from across the region are expected to take part, creating a weekend packed with discovery, learning and fun for the entire community to enjoy.
Roman Fest will take a break in 2027, due to a new event taking place at the Chester House Estate, so visitors are encouraged to book for this year’s event now. Roman Fest will return in 2028, with more information coming soon on a major celebration event in 2027 that promises to shine a spotlight on the Chester House Estate and the region’s remarkable heritage.
We are excited to be working in partnership with North Northamptonshire Council at Roman Fest 2026. This annual event is our biggest yet, with a wealth of exciting opportunities for people of all ages to discover Northamptonshire’s rich archaeology and heritage. You can handle real archaeological finds, watch the Ermine Street Guard in action and explore their brilliant living history camp. Try your hand at archaeological research in our pop-up lab and meet archaeologists from across Northamptonshire and beyond, including the team excavating the Roman town of Irchester that lies within the Estate.Sarah Scott, Professor of Archaeology, University of Leicester
This year’s event is especially important as it will be the last opportunity to experience Roman Fest before it takes a break in 2027, ahead of an exciting new chapter for the Estate and for our partnership. We encourage you to book your free tickets now and join us on 25 and 26 July!
The Chester House Estate has a fascinating past, including hundreds of years of Roman history.Cllr Greg Wilcox, North Northamptonshire Council’s Executive Member for Communities
With displays and demonstrations, expect to be transported back to the Roman era over a weekend not to be missed.
Roman Fest will be taking a break in 2027 to make way for a new, exciting heritage event so I would encourage visitors to book their tickets for this year’s event now to avoid disappointment.
Whether you're searching for free events in Northamptonshire, children's activities during the summer holidays, heritage days out near Wellingborough, or things to do with the kids in Northamptonshire - Roman Fest offers a memorable experience combining history, adventure and hands-on discovery for everyone to enjoy.
Roman Fest 2026 will take place on Saturday 25 and Sunday 26 July at the Chester House Estate. Admission is free but advance booking is required via the Chester House Estate website.