The Romans in the countryside

Lush green meadows surround the extensive ruins of Chesters Roman Fort . Perfect grazing country for horses today and perfect grazing country for horses 20 centuries ago. The Romans chose well and Chesters deserves its accolade as the best example in Great Britain of a Roman cavalry fort.

Seeking an instant connection between you and the ghosts of the past? Then step over the well-worn threshold of the ruined bath house and imagine the building’s warmth. Perfect for easing aching joints after a long day’s march guarding Rome’s North West frontier.

Or cross to the fort’s western gateway. Crouch down and touch the circular iron collar which held fast the door - and ponder - what was the name of the soldier who placed it in that position so long ago? Did he long to be back in his home country?

At Vindolanda find the phallic symbol carved in a stone gutter and find good luck. Or discover where the Commanding Officer would bark out his daily orders. The museum exhibition of the world famous Vindolanda Writing Tablets provides a glimpse into the very heart of daily life along this wild frontier. A birthday invitation. A request for clean socks. A complaint about the roads. Stroll through the ruins of "down town" Vindolanda and watch as a modern archaeologist uncovers another piece of the jigsaw.

Suddenly, you are part of Vindolanda's past.