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Wall Roman Site (Letocetum): Ancient Roman Staging Post and Baths

Explore the ruins of Letocetum, a key Roman staging post with baths and inns on historic Watling Street in Staffordshire.

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Wall Roman Site, known as Letocetum, is a significant Roman archaeological site located in Staffordshire along the historic Watling Street. It features well-preserved ruins of a Roman inn (mansio), public baths with cold, warm, and hot rooms, and a small museum showcasing excavated artifacts. The open-air site is free to explore year-round during daylight, with the museum open on select days. This site offers a fascinating glimpse into Roman Britain's road network and daily life at a key military and travel hub.

A brief summary to Wall Roman Site

  • Watling St, Lichfield, Wall, WS14 0AW, GB
  • +443703331181
  • Visit website
  • Duration: 1 to 3 hours
  • Free
  • Environment icon Outdoor
  • Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
  • Monday 10 am-5 pm
  • Tuesday 10 am-5 pm
  • Wednesday 10 am-5 pm
  • Thursday 10 am-5 pm
  • Friday 10 am-5 pm
  • Saturday 10 am-5 pm
  • Sunday 10 am-5 pm

Local tips

  • Check the museum's opening days before your visit to see the fascinating Roman artifacts inside.
  • Wear sturdy footwear as the ruins are outdoors and the terrain can be uneven.
  • Bring a picnic to enjoy nearby, as there are lovely spots around the site and a pub close by.
  • Free parking is available just 50 meters from the entrance, making access convenient.
  • Guided tours offered by English Heritage volunteers can enrich your understanding of the site's history.
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Getting There

  • Car

    Driving from Lichfield city center takes about 20-30 minutes via A5 Watling Street. Free parking is available 50 meters from the site entrance. Note that the site has limited wheelchair access and narrow paths.

  • Bus

    Local bus services run from Lichfield to Wall village approximately every 1-2 hours, with a journey time of around 40 minutes. From the village, the site is a short walk. Check local timetables for current schedules.

  • Walking

    For active visitors, walking from Wall village to the Roman site takes about 15 minutes over mostly flat terrain on rural paths. The route is accessible but not suitable for wheelchairs.

Wall Roman Site location weather suitability

  • Weather icon Any Weather
  • Weather icon Clear Skies
  • Weather icon Mild Temperatures
  • Weather icon Rain / Wet Weather

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Discover more about Wall Roman Site

Ancient Roman Hub on Watling Street

Wall Roman Site, historically known as Letocetum, was a vital staging post on Watling Street, the Roman military road that connected the heart of Roman Britain to north Wales. This road was critical for the movement of troops, officials, and imperial messengers, enabling the Romans to maintain control over their empire. Letocetum served as a resting place where weary travelers could find lodging, change horses, and refresh themselves before continuing their journey.

Ruins of Mansio and Roman Baths

At the site today, visitors can explore the remains of the mansio, a Roman inn designed to accommodate travelers and officials. The public baths are a highlight, showcasing an intricate sequence of cold, warm, and hot rooms that illustrate Roman bathing culture and engineering. These ruins provide tangible insight into the daily routines and social practices of Roman Britain.

On-Site Museum and Artifacts

The small museum at Wall Roman Site complements the ruins by displaying a variety of excavated finds, including carved images of Romano-British gods, arrowheads, and everyday items used by the inhabitants. The museum opens on selected days during the warmer months, offering visitors a deeper understanding of the site's historical significance and archaeological discoveries.

Visitor Experience and Accessibility

The open-air ruins are accessible during reasonable daylight hours throughout the year, allowing flexible visit times. Free parking is conveniently located just 50 meters from the entrance. While the outdoor site is generally accessible, there is no wheelchair access to the ruins, and the museum has a step at its entrance. Toilet facilities are available during museum opening hours. Dogs on leads are welcome, making it a family-friendly destination.

Historical Context and Nearby Attractions

Wall Roman Site is part of a broader network of Roman heritage sites in the region, including Wroxeter Roman City and Boscobel House. The latter is famous for its association with King Charles II's escape after the Battle of Worcester in 1651. The surrounding area offers opportunities for picnics and refreshments, enhancing the overall visitor experience.

Preservation and Management

The site is managed by English Heritage and owned by the National Trust, ensuring its preservation for future generations. Ongoing conservation efforts maintain the ruins and interpretive displays, allowing visitors to connect with Roman Britain's rich history in an authentic setting.

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