Great Witcombe Roman Villa

When the site was first excavated in the 19th century it was reported that parts of the villa were very well preserved. Walls of 6 ft high were documented, some still plastered. The bath house was one of the most complete examples known at the time and several mosaic floors were recorded. Poor conservation techniques and heavy rain have destroyed most of these features. The site currently consists of the remains of low walls which give a good idea of the general shape of the building. Two parts of the bath house are protected by small sheds, not accessible to the public, without prior notice.(See website) Besides its unusual shape, the villa has a few features worth noting, including a bath house and latrine, household shrine and an octagonal room of unknown use. The villa contained at least one substantial bath house, in the north-western wing. This included the latrine, which formed an L-shape around a dressing room (apodyterium). The dressing room led to the cold room (frigidarium) which contained a cold plunge bath and whose mosaic floor, decorated with a design of fish and sea creatures, is still well preserved under a modern protective building. This mosaic suggests an individual treatment of the standard sea animal and fish designs that are circulated in copy books. You can just make them out through the windows, better than not seeing them at all. It had at least one, possibly two, plunge pools – one of these is now detached from the building owing to landslides. A great place if you love your Roman history, (like us). Plus the bonus of being Free and you get it all to yourself and 🐕.

· via Google

In a lovely location, up a nice 5 min walk from the carpark. Lots of signage give you good information about the history of this site. The road up is narrow so beware if you are in a big vehicle.

· via Google

Its only a ruin - mostly foundations with 2 buildings fully restored - so don't get too excited, but its really well kept and the setting, on a sunny day, is really outstanding. It was so peaceful and calm. Combining it with a walk along some of the cotswold way makes for a perfect half day.

· via Google

It’s not the best ruins but still good to see. You won’t need to be there long so maybe plan something else as well. Shame the building with the mosaic was closed as I think that is probably one of the best parts to see. Take care on the roads there as well .. very rough.

· via Google