This summer, the village of Birdlip in the Cotswolds will come alive with the sights and sounds of Roman Britain as it hosts its very first Roman Festival. Scheduled for Sunday, August 17, the event will be held at Ruby’s Birdlip, Hawcote Barn, near the A417 junction. Organized by the Birdlip History Group and Birdlip School PTA, the festival forms part of the Council for British Archaeology’s Festival of Archaeology 2025.
Visitors will be transported back in time with a variety of immersive experiences designed for all ages. The highlight includes a dramatic military march and camp setup by the renowned Ermin Street Guard, who will parade along the historic Ermin Way, bringing Roman legionary life to Birdlip.
“The Forum” offers an educational hub where local museum partners—including Cotswold Archaeology, Corinium Museum, the Museum of Gloucester, and Chedworth Roman Villa—will present films, exhibits, and interactive activities that reveal the daily life and culture of ancient Romans.
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In “The Market Place,” attendees can browse an array of crafts, curiosities, locally sourced produce, and authentic Roman replica items. Meanwhile, food enthusiasts can indulge in Roman-inspired dishes at “The Thermopolium,” evoking the flavors of antiquity.
Harvey Mattinson, chairman of Birdlip History Group, expressed enthusiasm about the event: “It’s wonderful to bring Roman Britain to life here in Birdlip. Working with the Ermin Street Guard and our museum partners, we aim to offer families a memorable and engaging glimpse into our rich local heritage.”
Hayley Harrison of the Birdlip School PTA commented, “This festival celebrates Birdlip’s historical significance along ancient routes like Ermin Way. It’s a fantastic way for families to enjoy educational activities and celebrate our past together.”
The festival also shines a light on Birdlip’s deep historical roots, including the nearby discovery of the Iron Age Birdlip Mirror dating from around AD 50, underscoring the village’s archaeological importance.
Tickets are available online at the Birdlip School PTA website. Admission prices are £10 for adults, £5 for children under 16, with children under 3 admitted free. A family ticket bundle is available for £25. Parking tickets can also be purchased in advance.
For market stall inquiries, visit birdlippc.org.uk/history. To purchase tickets, go to pta-events.co.uk/birdlipschoolpta.