Deva Roman Experience, Chester
Immerse yourself in Chester's Roman past with interactive exhibits, live actors, and authentic ruins beneath the city streets.
Step into the immersive world of Roman Chester at the Deva Roman Experience, a unique museum and interactive attraction located in the heart of Chester. This engaging venue brings Roman history to life through live actors, hands-on exhibits, and access to authentic Roman ruins beneath the building. Perfect for families and history enthusiasts, it offers a vivid insight into life in the Roman fortress of Deva Victrix with opportunities to try on Roman armour and explore archaeological finds.
A brief summary to Deva Roman Experience
- 1-2, off Pierpoint Ct, Chester, CH1 1NL, GB
- +441244343407
- Visit website
- Duration: 1 to 2 hours
- Mid ranged
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Indoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
- Friday 2 pm-6 pm
- Saturday 10:30 am-6 pm
- Sunday 10:30 am-6 pm
Local tips
- Book tickets online in advance to secure your preferred time slot, especially during school holidays and weekends.
- Allow 1.5 to 2 hours to fully enjoy the interactive exhibits, live performances, and underground Roman ruins.
- Combine your visit with nearby Roman sites such as the Chester Roman Amphitheatre and Roman Gardens for a comprehensive historical experience.
- Wear comfortable shoes as the attraction includes walking on uneven ancient pavements underground.
- While there are no food or drink facilities on-site, Chester city centre offers many dining options within walking distance.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Information Boards
- Seating Areas
Getting There
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Public Transport
Take a train to Chester railway station, then enjoy a 15 to 20-minute walk through the city centre to the Deva Roman Experience. Frequent bus services also connect Chester’s suburbs to the city centre, with stops near the attraction.
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Car
Drive to Chester city centre and park at the nearby Linenhall car park, a large facility within comfortable walking distance of the Deva Roman Experience. Parking fees typically range from £5 to £15 depending on duration.
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Walking
If staying in central Chester, the attraction is easily reachable on foot via flat, paved streets. Walking times range from 5 to 20 minutes depending on your starting point, with accessible routes suitable for wheelchairs and strollers.
Deva Roman Experience location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Rain / Wet Weather
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Mild Temperatures
Discover more about Deva Roman Experience
A Living Journey into Roman Chester
The Deva Roman Experience is a captivating museum and interactive attraction situated in Chester city centre, built upon the remains of the Roman fortress known as Deva Victrix. It offers visitors a rare chance to explore genuine Roman ruins uncovered beneath the building, including original foundations and pavements that date back nearly two millennia. The experience is enhanced by enthusiastic guides and actors who portray Roman soldiers and civilians, providing an engaging and educational narrative that brings the ancient past vividly to life.Interactive Exhibits and Hands-On History
Designed with families and school groups in mind, the attraction features numerous hands-on activities that encourage visitors to immerse themselves in Roman life. Guests can try on replica Roman armour, handle play swords and shields, and participate in interactive games that make learning about Roman history both fun and memorable. The lively performances by costumed actors add theatrical flair, ensuring that the stories of Roman soldiers, their daily routines, and Chester’s historical significance are accessible to all ages.Historical Context and Archaeological Significance
Deva Victrix was one of the largest Roman legionary fortresses in Britain, established around 70 AD as a strategic military base. Chester’s Roman heritage is rich, with the fortress and its surrounding civilian settlement forming the foundation of the modern city. The Deva Roman Experience complements other local Roman sites such as the Chester Roman Amphitheatre—the largest in Britain—and the Roman Gardens, which display architectural fragments and mosaics. Together, these sites offer a comprehensive picture of Chester’s importance in Roman Britain.Visitor Experience and Atmosphere
The attraction’s intimate scale allows for a personalized and immersive visit, typically lasting 1.5 to 2 hours. The atmosphere is lively and engaging, with a blend of education and entertainment that appeals to both children and adults. The underground ruins provide a tangible connection to the past, while the actors’ performances add humor and authenticity. Though compact, the experience is rich in detail and depth, making it an ideal starting point for exploring Chester’s broader Roman heritage.Seasonal Access and Practical Information
Open primarily on weekends and school holidays from 10am to 6pm, the Deva Roman Experience is best visited during these periods to enjoy full public access. Booking tickets in advance is recommended, especially during peak seasons. While there are no food or drink facilities on-site, Chester’s city centre offers a wide range of dining options nearby. The attraction is wheelchair accessible and suitable for visitors of all ages, making it a family-friendly destination.Connecting Chester’s Past and Present
The Deva Roman Experience not only educates about Roman military life but also highlights Chester’s evolution from a Roman fortress to a vibrant modern city. It serves as a gateway to understanding the city’s extensive Roman archaeology, inspiring visitors to explore further sites like the city walls, amphitheatre, and Roman gardens. This blend of immersive storytelling, authentic ruins, and interactive learning creates a unique cultural heritage experience that enriches any visit to Chester.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Chester Cross
0.1 km
Medieval heart of Chester where Roman streets meet Tudor architecture and civic tradition.
Crypt Chambers
0.2 km
Medieval crypt meets Victorian Gothic Revival in Chester's most architecturally significant commercial building.
Roman South East Corner Tower
0.3 km
Explore the enduring Roman South East Corner Tower, a sentinel of Chester’s ancient fortress and a testament to Roman military engineering.
Chester Visitor Information Centre
0.3 km
Explore Chester's rich history and vibrant culture at the Visitor Information Centre, your essential resource for navigating this historic city.
Chester War Memorial
0.3 km
A solemn neo-medieval tribute to fallen soldiers, unveiled in 1922 within Chester Cathedral's historic grounds.
Eastgate Clock
0.3 km
A Victorian clock atop a Roman gateway, Eastgate Clock is Chester’s most iconic meeting point and one of England’s most photographed timepieces.
Chester Town Hall
0.3 km
A stunning Victorian Gothic Revival landmark, Chester Town Hall is the historic heart of Chester’s civic and cultural life.
Ancient Roman Columns, Chester
0.3 km
Roman column bases marking Chester's legacy as a major legionary fortress and potential capital of Britannia.
Wishing Steps
0.4 km
Historic stone steps at Chester’s medieval walls where wishes come true through a charming local tradition.
Bridge Gate and Old Dee Bridge
0.4 km
Historic medieval gateway and ancient stone bridge spanning the scenic tidal River Dee in Chester’s charming riverside setting.
Bridge Of Sighs
0.5 km
A haunting 1793 stone bridge where condemned prisoners took their final steps before execution—Chester's most poignant historical crossing.
Churchill House
0.5 km
A vibrant academic landmark on Chester’s Queen’s Park campus, blending historic charm with modern learning and scenic riverside views.
Pemberton's Parlour
0.6 km
Explore Pemberton's Parlour, a striking red sandstone tower on Chester’s historic city walls, revealing centuries of medieval and Victorian heritage.
Bonewaldesthorne's Tower
0.6 km
Medieval gatehouse controlling Chester's western defenses, standing sentinel on Britain's most complete city walls.
Leadworks Lane Park
0.8 km
Explore the serene beauty of Leadworks Lane Park in Chester, a perfect spot for relaxation, picnics, and enjoying nature’s tranquility amidst the city.
Unmissable attractions to see
Sick To Death
0.1 km
Explore Chester’s unique interactive museum revealing the gruesome history of medicine, disease, and healthcare through immersive exhibits and dark humor.
The Antiques Shop
0.1 km
Explore centuries of British history and craftsmanship in a rare medieval town house filled with genuine antiques in Chester’s historic Rows.
Eastgate St
0.2 km
Walk through history on Eastgate Street, Chester’s vibrant Roman-rooted street famed for its medieval Rows and captivating local legends.
Chester History & Heritage
0.2 km
Discover Chester’s rich history and heritage through Roman artifacts, period rooms, and vibrant exhibitions at the Grosvenor Museum.
The Grosvenor Museum
0.2 km
Explore Chester’s rich heritage from Roman relics to period homes in this free-entry Victorian museum with diverse exhibits and community events.
Ye Olde King's Head Hotel, Chester
0.2 km
Historic Tudor inn in Chester famed for its rich heritage, cozy charm, and renowned paranormal activity with immersive ghost-hunting experiences.
Roman Strongroom
0.2 km
Explore Chester’s Roman Strongroom, a free historic site revealing ancient Roman military architecture and the city’s rich heritage.
Grosvenor Shopping Centre
0.2 km
Chester's premier shopping destination blending 70 diverse retailers with historic charm and modern convenience.
Taste Cheshire
0.3 km
Discover Cheshire’s rich culinary heritage at Taste Cheshire, set in the charming historic Soughton House in Chester.
Stanley Palace
0.3 km
Discover Chester’s finest Tudor house, Stanley Palace—a historic, atmospheric venue famed for its stunning Elizabethan architecture and ghostly tales.
The Nine Houses
0.3 km
Discover Chester’s rare 17th-century almshouses—six beautifully restored timber-framed cottages steeped in history and architectural charm.
Town Hall
0.3 km
Explore Chester Town Hall, a majestic 19th-century Gothic Revival masterpiece and vibrant civic hub in the heart of historic Chester.
Edwardian Lady Tour
0.3 km
Discover Chester’s Edwardian charm on a captivating walking tour led by a guide in authentic period costume with exclusive Town Hall access.
Chester Free Walking Tours
0.3 km
Explore Chester’s rich history and iconic landmarks on a free, expert-led walking tour through the heart of this ancient city.
Cheshire Military Museum
0.3 km
Explore centuries of Cheshire soldiers’ history through immersive exhibits and archives in the heart of Chester Castle.
Essential places to dine
Côte Chester
0.0 km
A stylish French brasserie in Chester’s city centre offering classic dishes, diverse menus, and a welcoming atmosphere for all occasions.
Urbano 32
0.1 km
Authentic sourdough pizzas from a wood-fired clay oven in the heart of Chester, served in a stylish urban-chic pizzeria and bar.
Carbonara at No 49
0.1 km
Experience authentic Roman Italian flavors in Chester’s historic Bridge Street setting, blending tradition, warmth, and local produce.
Da Noi Chester
0.1 km
Experience authentic Piedmontese Italian cuisine with exquisite wine pairings in Chester’s intimate Michelin-recognized Da Noi.
Moules a go-go Bar & Bistro
0.1 km
Chester’s vibrant bistro specializing in fresh Anglesey mussels, offering a lively atmosphere and diverse seafood dishes since 1999.
Olive Tree Brasserie Chester
0.1 km
Experience authentic Mediterranean and Greek cuisine in Chester’s historic Watergate Street with warm ambiance and vibrant dining options.
Pars Kahve
0.1 km
Experience authentic Turkish cuisine and warm hospitality in the heart of Chester’s historic Watergate Street.
Chef's Table
0.1 km
Discover inventive modern British cuisine in a bright, welcoming setting at Chef's Table, Chester’s acclaimed seasonal dining destination.
Stile Napoletano
0.1 km
Experience authentic Neapolitan pizza crafted with passion and tradition in the heart of Chester’s historic district.
Ruan Orchid
0.1 km
Experience authentic Thai cuisine with a vibrant atmosphere and welcoming service in the heart of Chester’s historic center.
The Secret Garden Restaurant
0.1 km
Discover The Secret Garden at Oddfellows, a charming spot in Chester blending modern British cuisine with a unique garden ambiance.
Shrub
0.2 km
Innovative vegan dining with Mediterranean and East Asian flair in Chester’s iconic Eastgate Row, featuring creative cocktails and a relaxed urban pastoral vibe.
Six One Six Restaurant & Bar
0.2 km
A stylish Chester restaurant blending historic inspiration with modern elegance, exceptional food, and a vibrant social scene.
La Fattoria
0.2 km
Experience vibrant Southern Italian dining with authentic flavors, generous portions, and a lively atmosphere in the heart of Chester.
Opera Restaurant Bar & Grill
0.2 km
Grand Grade II listed grill with live music, a rooftop terrace, and an internationally inspired steakhouse menu in the heart of Chester.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Chester Boutique
0.1 km
Discover curated contemporary fashion in Chester’s vibrant Bridge Street boutique, blending style with historic charm.
Suzie K
0.1 km
Discover Chester’s magical alternative gift shop blending unique fashion, crystals, and holistic services in a warm, welcoming atmosphere.
Ancient World
0.1 km
Discover unique antiques and curiosities steeped in history at Ancient World, Chester’s charming vintage treasure shop on Bridge Street.
Harley’s Vintage Boutique
0.1 km
Discover timeless vintage fashion and expert styling in Chester’s charming Harley’s Vintage Boutique on Bridge Street Row.
Rock Bottom / Florence & Company
0.1 km
Chester’s vibrant ladies' boutique offering fresh fashion, unique jewelry, and stylish scarves in a welcoming city center setting.
Jigsaw
0.1 km
Upscale women's fashion boutique blending timeless style with Chester’s historic charm on Bridge Street.
Styled Boutique
0.1 km
A warm, independent women’s boutique in Chester’s historic centre, offering easy-to-wear fashion and a personal, friendly shopping experience.
Fifi Bambu
0.1 km
Discover the magic of Chester’s Watergate Street through Fifi Bambu, a charming gift shop filled with unique treasures and enchanting finds.
Elephant
0.1 km
Explore Chester's Elephant Gift Shop for unique, handcrafted gifts that celebrate local artistry and charm.
Harriet & Dee
0.1 km
Charming boutique gift and baby shop in Chester’s historic Watergate Street, known for unique presents and friendly service.
NICHOLS
0.1 km
Discover Nichols, Chester’s quirky boutique blending unique ladies’ fashion with antique treasures in a charming historic setting.
Reminis
0.1 km
Explore Chester's hidden gem, Reminis Gift Shop, for unique souvenirs and local artisan treasures that capture the essence of your visit.
Rainforest
0.1 km
Discover Chester’s serene spiritual gift shop with crystals, mindfulness tools, and warm hospitality at Rainforest on Watergate Street.
Menkind
0.1 km
Discover quirky gifts, gadgets, and tech accessories for men and boys in the heart of Chester’s historic shopping district.
Sweetheart Vintage
0.2 km
Discover unique vintage-inspired fashion accessories in the heart of Chester’s historic Watergate Street.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Slug & Lettuce - Chester
0.0 km
Lively cocktail bar and restaurant on Chester’s historic Bridge Street, blending vibrant social vibes with diverse food and drink offerings.
Commonhall Street Social
0.0 km
A cozy, dog-friendly bar with craft beers, delicious food, and a lively outdoor terrace in the heart of Chester’s city centre.
Paysan
0.1 km
Chester’s cozy wine bar with 200+ wines downstairs and a vibrant beer cellar upstairs, perfect for relaxed evenings and casual gatherings.
The Cavern of the Curious Gnome
0.1 km
A cozy upstairs bar in Chester famed for its curated Belgian ales, continental lagers, and British craft beers paired with classic comfort food.
Palm Cocktail Bar & Eatery
0.1 km
Chester’s vibrant cocktail bar with expertly crafted drinks, lively atmosphere, and friendly service on historic Watergate Street.
Watergates Bar
0.1 km
Historic medieval crypt pub in Chester city centre with vaulted ceilings, classic British fare, real ales, and a lively yet family-friendly vibe.
Havana Chester
0.1 km
Lively Cuban-inspired bar and restaurant on Chester’s historic Watergate Street, offering vibrant music, tapas, and creative cocktails.
Prohibition
0.2 km
Step into Chester’s Prohibition for expertly crafted cocktails and a vibrant 1920s speakeasy vibe in a cozy, intimate setting.
The Church Chester Bar & Restaurant
0.2 km
Historic church turned vibrant bar and restaurant in Chester, blending classic charm with modern dining and lively atmosphere.
BarLounge - Chester
0.2 km
Chester’s premier lounge bar blending refined comfort food with creative cocktails in a stylish, welcoming setting.
The Guild Chester
0.2 km
Chester’s stylish cocktail bar and live music venue with two bars, terrace, and a vibrant yet intimate atmosphere.
All Bar One Chester
0.2 km
Stylish wine bar in Chester’s city center offering expertly crafted drinks and a vibrant social atmosphere.
Kings Head Chester
0.2 km
Historic 17th-century pub in Chester with classic British fare, a haunted reputation, and a cosy, welcoming atmosphere.
Music Hall Tap
0.2 km
Chester’s lively craft beer pub with rustic charm, live sports, and a vibrant social scene in the heart of the city.
Metronome Jazz Bar
0.2 km
Chester’s intimate jazz bar with live piano, vinyl classics, and a warm, candlelit atmosphere for a perfect night out.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
Chester City Club
0.1 km
Experience Chester’s vibrant nightlife at City Club, where modern beats meet historic charm in the heart of St Peters Churchyard.
Rosies - Chester
0.2 km
Experience Chester’s vibrant nightlife at Rosies, a multiroom club with rooftop terrace, VIP lounges, and cutting-edge sound over three lively floors.
BONOBO Bar & Canteen
0.3 km
A vibrant two-floor bar and canteen in Chester blending American eats, cocktails, video games, and lively music for a unique nightlife experience.
Cruise
0.3 km
A multi-floor nightclub in Chester offering vibrant music, premium drinks, and lively nightlife across seven bars.
The Live Rooms
1.1 km
Discover Chester's vibrant nightlife at The Live Rooms, where live music, comedy, and unforgettable experiences await.
Mandy & Graham’s
2.6 km
Experience Chester’s vibrant nightlife at Mandy & Graham’s, where pulsating beats and lively crowds create unforgettable party nights.
Ewloe Social and Community Club Ltd
10.9 km
Experience the heart of Deeside at Ewloe Social and Community Club, where fun, games, and community spirit come together.
Bryn Griffiths W M Social Club
16.9 km
Discover the vibrant community spirit at Bryn Griffiths W M Social Club in Mold, where fun meets fellowship and local culture thrives.
North Wales Celebrations Wedding & Party Disco DJ
17.0 km
Elevate your celebrations with North Wales Celebrations - the premier mobile disco DJ service for unforgettable weddings and parties.
The Magnet Club
17.1 km
Wrexham’s independent venue since 1984, The Magnet Club blends live music, sports, and social games in a welcoming, refurbished space on King Street.
Flint Royal British Legion Social Club
17.5 km
A welcoming social hub in Flint supporting veterans and community through camaraderie, remembrance, and local events.
The Establishment
22.0 km
A vibrant Widnes nightclub offering lively events, friendly staff, and a spacious venue for unforgettable nights out.
Supper Club at Blundell Street
23.9 km
Liverpool's ultimate supper club: fuel up on hearty meals, then dance the night away to drag shows, tributes, and non-stop hits near Echo Arena.
The Blue Angel Nightclub
24.2 km
Liverpool's dingy dive for 60s rock legends, dirt-cheap drinks, and sweaty throwback dances—where The Beatles once rocked and students still rage till dawn.
Cool It
24.3 km
A multi-level, student-friendly nightclub on Seel Street offering loud DJ nights, bargain entry and packed late‑night dancefloors.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Lively
- Educational
- Family Friendly
- Interactive
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Rustic Designs
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Heritage Neighborhoods
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Locally Managed
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Family Friendly
- Photowalk
- Day Trip
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
