Burgh Castle Roman Fort
Explore one of Britain’s best-preserved Roman forts, where ancient walls meet sweeping estuary views and centuries of history.
Burgh Castle Roman Fort stands as one of Britain’s best-preserved Roman monuments, with three towering walls still reaching their original height. Located on the edge of the Norfolk Broads, the site offers sweeping views over Breydon Water and a rich history spanning Roman, Anglo-Saxon, and Norman periods. Free entry and accessible paths make it a rewarding destination for history lovers and nature enthusiasts alike.
A brief summary to Burgh Castle
- Butt Ln, Great Yarmouth, Burgh Castle, NR31 9QB, GB
- +443703331181
- Visit website
- Duration: 1 to 3 hours
- Free
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
- Monday 12 am-12 am
- Tuesday 12 am-12 am
- Wednesday 12 am-12 am
- Thursday 12 am-12 am
- Friday 12 am-12 am
- Saturday 12 am-12 am
- Sunday 12 am-12 am
Local tips
- Visit on a Sunday between May and September for a free guided tour to learn more about the fort’s fascinating history.
- Bring binoculars for birdwatching—the marshes around the fort are home to a wide variety of birds.
- Combine your visit with a walk to the nearby Saxon round-towered church, which features Roman materials and a medieval font.
- Wear sturdy shoes, as the paths around the fort can be muddy, especially after rain.
- Check the tide times if you plan to walk along the estuary, as some paths may be affected by high water.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Seating Areas
- Information Boards
Getting There
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Car
Drive to Butt Lane, Burgh Castle, Great Yarmouth NR31 9QB. There is a car park on site with charges of £1.50 for 2 hours, £2 for 4 hours, or £4 for the day. The car park is open from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. daily.
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Walking
From Burgh Castle village, follow the Angles Way footpath for about half a mile to reach the fort. The path is well-maintained and suitable for all abilities.
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Boat
Moor on the riverbank just upstream from Burgh Castle Marina and Holiday Village. The fort is a short walk from the moorings, but be mindful of the strong tide when mooring.
Burgh Castle location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Clear Skies
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Mild Temperatures
Discover more about Burgh Castle
Impressive Roman Remains
Burgh Castle Roman Fort is among the most remarkable Roman sites in England, dating back to the late 3rd century AD. Three of its massive stone walls remain standing, rising up to 4.5 metres, making it one of the best-preserved Roman forts in the country. Built as part of the Saxon Shore defensive network, the fort once guarded the mouth of the River Waveney and protected against seaborne raiders. The sheer scale of the walls and the panoramic views from within the fort offer a vivid sense of its strategic importance.Layers of History
The site’s story extends far beyond the Roman era. After the Romans left, the fort was reoccupied during the Anglo-Saxon period, possibly serving as the location of a monastery founded by St Fursey. Archaeological excavations have revealed evidence of timber buildings and a Christian cemetery, hinting at the site’s spiritual significance. Later, after the Norman Conquest, a motte-and-bailey castle was built within the Roman walls, adding another layer to its complex past. The fort’s long history is reflected in the visible remains of different periods, from Roman foundations to Norman earthworks.Wildlife and Scenic Beauty
Surrounding the fort is a landscape rich in natural beauty and wildlife. The marshes and estuaries of Breydon Water are home to a wide variety of birds, making the area a haven for birdwatchers. The circular all-weather path around the fort is accessible to visitors of all abilities and offers stunning views across the water. The site is also close to the iconic Berney Arms Windmill, which rises above the marshes and can be seen from the fort.Visitor Experience
Burgh Castle is free to enter and open during daylight hours, with an accessible path that circles the fort. Information boards provide historical context, and guided tours are available on Sundays from May to September. The nearby village of Burgh Castle has a post office, pub, and a fascinating Saxon round-towered church, which incorporates Roman materials. The area is perfect for a leisurely walk, a family outing, or a quiet moment of reflection amidst ancient history and natural beauty.For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Scenic
- Relaxing
- Tranquil
- Unique
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Rustic Designs
- Vintage Styles
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
- Sacred Sites
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Panoramas
- Waterfront
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Aesthetic Corners
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Protected Area
- Nature Reserve
- Public-Transport Accessible
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
- Nature Escape
- Day Trip
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
- Wheelchair Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Pet Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Female Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly
