Aldborough Roman Site: The Ancient Capital of the Brigantes
Explore Aldborough Roman Site, the ancient northern capital with stunning mosaics and rich Roman heritage nestled in a serene Victorian arboretum.
Aldborough Roman Site, located in North Yorkshire, England, preserves the remains of Isurium Brigantum, the Roman capital of the Brigantes tribe. Visitors can explore original Roman mosaics, town walls, and an on-site museum showcasing over 1,800 years of history. The site offers guided tours revealing the significance of this northern Roman city, set within a charming Victorian arboretum.
A brief summary to Aldborough Roman Site
- Front St, York, Aldborough, YO51 9ES, GB
- +443703331181
- Visit website
- Duration: 1 to 3 hours
- Mid ranged
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
- Friday 10 am-5 pm
- Saturday 10 am-5 pm
- Sunday 10 am-5 pm
Local tips
- Book guided tours in advance as the site is only open during pre-booked visits.
- Wear sturdy shoes due to steep and slippery terrain, especially after rain.
- Check current opening hours online before visiting to avoid unexpected closures.
- Visit the on-site museum to see a rich collection of Roman artefacts alongside the mosaics.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Seating Areas
- Information Boards
Getting There
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Train and Bus
Take a train to York, then a local bus service to Boroughbridge, approximately 45-60 minutes total travel time. Bus frequency varies, so check schedules in advance. From Boroughbridge, a taxi or a 20-minute walk leads to Aldborough Roman Site.
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Car
Driving from York takes about 30 minutes via A1(M) and local roads. Limited parking is available near the site; parking may be restricted during busy periods. Car hire is widely available in York.
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Guided Tour Shuttle
Some regional tour operators offer day trips including transport from York or Harrogate, lasting 6-8 hours with guided access to the site. Prices range from £40-£70 per person.
Aldborough Roman Site location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Rain / Wet Weather
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Mild Temperatures
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Clear Skies
Discover more about Aldborough Roman Site
Legacy of Isurium Brigantum: A Northern Roman Capital
Aldborough Roman Site stands on the ancient Roman town of Isurium Brigantum, once the administrative heart of the Brigantes tribe, the largest tribal confederation in Roman Britain. As one of the northernmost urban centres of the Roman Empire, Isurium was a vital trading and governance hub stretching from Derbyshire to Hadrian’s Wall. Excavations have revealed a prosperous settlement with substantial town defences, reflecting its importance in the Roman provincial system.Remarkable Roman Mosaics and Archaeological Treasures
Among the site's most striking features are two exceptionally well-preserved Roman mosaic floors displayed in their original locations. Originally, 22 mosaics were discovered here, highlighting the artistic sophistication of the period. The on-site museum houses an outstanding collection of Roman artefacts, including everyday objects that illuminate life in the town. Recent archaeological finds continue to enrich the understanding of this historic settlement.Historic Setting Within a Victorian Arboretum
The remains of Aldborough’s Roman defences are set within a beautifully maintained Victorian arboretum garden, featuring towering conifers and a variety of mature trees. This tranquil green space offers a unique blend of natural beauty and historical significance, enhancing the visitor experience with scenic walks amid ancient ruins.Guided Tours and Educational Engagement
The site is open primarily through pre-booked guided tours led by knowledgeable volunteers from the Friends of Roman Aldborough. These tours provide immersive insights into Roman history, culture, and the site's archaeological significance. Educational workshops and hands-on activities, such as mosaic-making and artefact handling, are available for school groups and visitors seeking a deeper connection to the past.Seasonal Access and Visitor Information
Aldborough Roman Site operates mainly from April to October, with visiting hours typically on Fridays through Sundays. Due to its delicate mosaics and archaeological features, access is carefully managed, and visitors are advised to check opening times and book tours in advance. The terrain includes some steep and potentially slippery areas, so sturdy footwear is recommended.Continuing Discoveries and Community Involvement
Ongoing archaeological research by the University of Cambridge and local heritage groups continues to uncover new facets of Isurium Brigantum, keeping the site relevant and dynamic. The Friends of Roman Aldborough actively promote awareness and education, ensuring that this remarkable Roman town remains a vital link to Britain’s ancient past.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
REMAINS OF FORMER KIRBY HALL
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Explore the evocative remains of Kirby Hall and the iconic Thompson Mausoleum, treasures of North Yorkshire’s 18th-century aristocratic heritage.
Thornborough Henges
17.7 km
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Almscliffe Crag
21.9 km
A majestic Millstone Grit outcrop near Leeds and Harrogate, famed for climbing, sweeping valley views, and rich folklore.
Anglian Tower
24.0 km
Discover York’s rare Anglo-Saxon watchtower, a unique stone relic woven into ancient Roman walls and shrouded in centuries of history.
Bootham Bar
24.0 km
Explore Bootham Bar, York’s medieval gateway with Roman roots, historic portcullis, and stunning views of the city’s ancient walls and Minster.
Medieval Walls
24.1 km
Walk England’s longest medieval walls, tracing 2,000 years of York’s history with stunning city views and iconic fortified gateways.
St. Leonard's Hospital
24.1 km
Explore the evocative ruins of York’s largest medieval hospital, where healing met faith in a grand historic sanctuary.
York Gifts and Souvenirs
24.1 km
Explore York Gifts and Souvenirs for locally crafted treasures and unique gifts that capture the essence of York's rich history and culture.
Best of Britain – Yorkshire Day Tours (formally BOBH)
24.1 km
Discover the enchanting landscapes and rich heritage of Yorkshire with personalized tours from Best of Britain – Yorkshire Day Tours.
Historic England - York Office
24.2 km
Explore the Historic England - York Office, a hub for heritage preservation in the heart of York, where history meets contemporary conservation efforts.
Micklegate Bar
24.2 km
Explore the historical significance of Micklegate Bar, a majestic gateway that tells the story of York's medieval past.
Shadows of York Ghost Walk
24.2 km
Experience York's haunted history with the Shadows of York Ghost Walk, a thrilling journey through the city's ghostly past and chilling legends.
St Michael Le Belfrey
24.2 km
Discover the enchanting St Michael Le Belfrey, an Anglican church in York, rich in history and architectural beauty, perfect for spiritual reflection.
The Norman House
24.2 km
Discover York’s oldest medieval house, a Norman stone residence with rare surviving walls and a Norman window hidden behind Stonegate.
The Cathedral and Metropolitical Church of St Peter in York
24.2 km
A soaring Gothic masterpiece in the heart of York, where 1,400 years of faith, history, and light-filled architecture converge in one of England’s greatest cathedrals.
Unmissable attractions to see
Ripon Cathedral
10.3 km
Explore Ripon Cathedral’s 1,350-year legacy, from England’s oldest crypt to stunning Gothic architecture and vibrant community life.
Knaresborough Castle and Courthouse Museum
10.8 km
Discover medieval history and stunning river views at Knaresborough Castle and Courthouse Museum, a timeless Yorkshire treasure.
Mother Shipton's Cave
10.9 km
Explore England’s oldest visitor attraction where legend, nature’s magic, and family fun meet in a scenic woodland by the River Nidd.
St Robert's Cave
11.0 km
Discover the serene medieval hermitage carved into limestone cliffs, where St Robert of Knaresborough lived and inspired centuries of spiritual pilgrimage.
Fountains Abbey
13.2 km
Explore England’s largest monastic ruins nestled in a stunning Georgian water garden and deer park, a World Heritage Site rich in history and natural beauty.
Plumpton Rocks
13.4 km
Discover the enchanting 18th-century landscape garden of Plumpton Rocks, where dramatic rock formations meet tranquil lakes and woodland trails in North Yorkshire.
Ripley Castle
13.4 km
Explore Ripley Castle’s 700-year legacy, Gothic architecture, tranquil gardens, and haunting tales near Harrogate in North Yorkshire.
National Trust - Beningbrough Hall, Gallery and Gardens
13.4 km
A Georgian mansion with formal gardens, art exhibitions, and family-friendly grounds just north of York.
Tockwith Showfield
13.7 km
Experience Yorkshire’s vibrant rural traditions and lively agricultural celebrations at Tockwith Showfield near York.
The Stray
14.5 km
A vast, historic green oasis in Harrogate, celebrated for its blossoms, open spaces, and vibrant community spirit.
Cold Bath Brewing Co
14.7 km
Discover the vibrant world of craft beer at Cold Bath Brewing Co, a beloved microbrewery and pub in Harrogate, where quality meets community.
The Little Ale House
14.9 km
Discover the heart of Harrogate at The Little Ale House, where craft beer and friendly atmosphere blend for an unforgettable pub experience.
Oxford St
14.9 km
Oxford Street in Harrogate blends historic charm with diverse shopping, offering a vibrant retail experience in the town’s heart.
Antiques on High Harrogate
15.1 km
Discover timeless treasures and expert-curated antiques in the charming setting of Harrogate’s Antiques on High.
Royal Pump Room Museum
15.2 km
Step into Harrogate’s spa heritage at the Royal Pump Room Museum, where Victorian elegance meets the story of healing waters in a striking octagonal building.
Essential places to dine
Crab & Lobster Hotel & Restaurant
9.1 km
Eclectic seafood dining and uniquely themed rooms combine for a memorable stay in tranquil North Yorkshire countryside.
Quirky Farm Bistro
14.8 km
A cozy, independent bistro in Harrogate serving heartfelt breakfasts and brunches with a unique blend of British, Italian, and Caribbean flavors.
Horto Restaurant
14.8 km
Seasonal British small plates in a bright, elegant setting at Rudding Park’s kitchen garden-inspired Horto Restaurant.
THE BLUES BAR - YORKSHIRE TAPAS
15.1 km
Savor Northern British classics tapas-style with live blues music in Harrogate’s vibrant and cozy Blues Bar venue.
Shaun Rankin at Grantley Hall
16.6 km
Experience Michelin-starred British cuisine crafted from North Yorkshire’s finest local ingredients in an elegant countryside setting.
The Hare Restaurant
22.4 km
An intimate North Yorkshire gem offering exquisite tasting menus that celebrate local flavors with modern finesse and warm hospitality.
Where There's Smoke Restaurant
23.2 km
Experience bold smoky flavors and artistic dining in Masham’s Michelin-starred Where There's Smoke, a unique culinary gem with local roots.
Roots York
23.8 km
Discover Roots York, a Michelin-starred gem offering seasonal farm-to-table tasting menus in a historic 19th-century setting with warm, refined ambiance.
The Star Inn The City
24.0 km
Elegant riverside dining in York offering seasonal British cuisine with a rustic countryside charm and stunning views of the River Ouse.
The Rise
24.1 km
Modern British dining with a Yorkshire twist in York’s only five-star hotel, featuring an open kitchen, terrace views, and award-winning afternoon tea.
Brew & Brownie
24.1 km
Cozy family-run café in York serving locally inspired breakfasts, artisan coffee, and indulgent brownies in a rustic, welcoming setting.
Mannion & Co
24.1 km
Discover Mannion & Co, a charming bistro in York offering delicious locally sourced dishes and a cozy atmosphere perfect for all occasions.
Delrio's Restaurant
24.2 km
Experience authentic Italian and Sardinian cuisine in York’s cozy cellar setting, where passion and tradition create unforgettable flavors.
Partisan
24.2 km
Artistic café serving seasonal brunch and lunch in a bohemian Parisian-inspired setting on historic Micklegate.
Skosh
24.2 km
Inventive small plates, global flavors, and theatrical kitchen views in intimate York setting.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Karma - Clothing & Gift Boutique
10.4 km
Discover sustainable bohemian fashion and unique handcrafted gifts in Ripon’s vibrant Karma boutique.
Unique Gifts
16.1 km
Discover handcrafted treasures and unique local gifts in the heart of Thirsk’s historic Market Place.
Uniquely Local Experiences
21.9 km
Explore a unique gift shop in York offering local crafts, corporate gifts, and event planning services for a truly memorable experience.
Fairer World
24.0 km
Discover unique fair trade treasures and support global artisans at York’s dedicated ethical gift shop on historic Gillygate.
Snowhome
24.0 km
Discover Snowhome, York’s premier independent lifestyle store blending exquisite stationery, niche perfumes, and sustainable home accessories since 2001.
Old York
24.1 km
Explore Old York Antique Shop: A vintage treasure trove in the heart of York, perfect for history lovers and collectors seeking unique finds.
The Imaginarium
24.2 km
Discover York’s enchanting Victorian-style curiosity shop filled with unique art, vintage-inspired homewares, and affordable luxuries.
The Yorkshire Soap Company - York
24.2 km
A fragrant, playful haven of handmade soaps and scented treats in the heart of York – perfect for gifts and a little indulgence.
York Minster Shop
24.2 km
Discover authentic souvenirs and specialist books celebrating York Minster's medieval heritage.
Hidden Treasures
24.2 km
Discover unique crystals and spiritual tools in a tranquil metaphysical shop at York’s George Hudson Street.
Shared Earth
24.2 km
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Käthe Wohlfahrt
24.2 km
Experience authentic German Christmas magic year-round in York’s historic Tudor townhouse on Stonegate.
York Armoury
24.2 km
Explore York Armoury for unique gifts and local crafts that embody the rich heritage and charm of York, England.
Rookscroft
24.2 km
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The Antiques Centre York
24.2 km
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Best Bar Harrogate
14.9 km
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York Tap
23.9 km
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Eagle & Child
24.1 km
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The Maltings
24.1 km
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House Of Trembling Madness // Lendal (No table bookings)
24.1 km
Step into York’s medieval gem where historic ambiance meets an extraordinary craft beer selection in a quirky, lively setting.
Ye Olde Starre Inne
24.2 km
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Lendal Cellars
24.2 km
Historic underground pub with a quirky atmosphere, diverse menu, and a rare city-center beer garden in York.
The Punch Bowl
24.2 km
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Evil Eye
24.2 km
Quirky cocktails and lively entertainment blend seamlessly in York’s vibrant Evil Eye Lounge on historic Stonegate.
Revolution York
24.2 km
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Bobos Cocktail Bar York
24.3 km
York’s vibrant two-floor cocktail bar with tropical drinks, heated shisha terrace, lively DJs, and unbeatable drink deals in the historic Quarter.
Dusk
24.3 km
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Slug & Lettuce - Swinegate York
24.3 km
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Pitcher & Piano York
24.3 km
Lively riverside bar on Coney Street blending modern British cuisine, vibrant social events, and scenic views of the River Ouse in York.
Oscar's Wine Bar & Bistro
24.3 km
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Nightclubs & after hour spots
Flares - York
24.2 km
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Club Salvation
24.2 km
York’s vibrant nightclub with dual music rooms, lively atmosphere, and fair-priced drinks for an unforgettable night out.
Ziggy's Bar & Nightclub
24.2 km
York’s iconic student nightclub offering energetic dance floors, affordable drinks, and a lively atmosphere since the 1980s.
Bar 55 York
24.2 km
York’s exclusive strip club offering sophisticated adult entertainment and premium nightlife in a stylish, historic setting.
Popworld York
24.3 km
York’s vibrant pop music nightclub with a unique revolving dancefloor and a lively atmosphere for unforgettable nights out.
BlueBox
24.3 km
York’s premier late-night nightclub, BlueBox pulses with House, Tech House, and Disco beats until dawn in a vibrant city-center setting.
Kuda
24.6 km
York’s vibrant nightclub offering diverse music, live DJs, and a lively late-night atmosphere in the heart of the city.
Karaoke Rooms (KTV)
25.5 km
Experience lively private karaoke rooms in the heart of York’s vibrant nightlife at Chuandao Karaoke Bar.
New Inn
32.0 km
Traditional Headingley pub with roaring fires, cask ales, and community spirit on lively Otley Road—a cozy cornerstone of Leeds life.
The Queen's Head, Finghall
32.4 km
A quintessential English country pub and inn in Finghall offering hearty British fare, cozy rooms, and warm hospitality in scenic North Yorkshire.
New Headingley Club
32.8 km
Discover the perfect blend of pub charm and club vibes at New Headingley Club, a lively nightlife hotspot in Leeds.
Hyde Park Book Club
32.8 km
Experience the vibrant atmosphere at Hyde Park Book Club, where delicious vegetarian cuisine meets live music and community spirit in the heart of Leeds.
Arabian Night Lounge
33.2 km
Dive into Arabian enchantment on Leeds' nightlife scene: shisha, beats, and opulent vibes await at this Cherry Row gem.
Brudenell Social Club
33.5 km
Experience the vibrant music and community atmosphere at Brudenell Social Club, Leeds' iconic live music venue and social hub.
Popworld - Leeds
33.8 km
Relive noughties glory in Leeds' ultimate cheesy pop nightclub, where cocktails pop and dances don't stop till dawn.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Tranquil
- Scenic
- Cultural Heritage
- Unique
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Vintage Styles
- Rustic Designs
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Heritage Neighborhoods
- Parks & Gardens
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Panoramas
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Protected Area
- Locally Managed
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Leave-No-Trace Critical
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
- Day Trip
- Weekend Getaway
- Myth & Legends
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly