he landscape and culture of Iron Age Britain changed dramatically when the Romans arrived in AD43. Considered to be a peripheral colony of the great Roman Empire, the invaders soon put their unmistakable stamp on the sprawling chaos of iron-age settlements. 25 planned towns were created, legionary fortresses were strategically placed around the country, and long straight roads were laid down to provide ease of communication between the military outposts. In the north, the massive Hadrian's Wall was constructed to define the limit of Roman rule, and in the southern part of the country, hundreds of villas were constructed during the 360 years of Roman occupation.

There are many Roman sites in the United Kingdom that are open to the public. Many of these sites that do not require special access, including Roman roads, and sites that have not been uncovered. Others though, do cost some money and often you get what you pay for.

Attractions around Britain

Britain Roman sites constitute an integral part of the major tourist attractions of the country. While most Roman ruins of Britain are supervised by English Heritage, some of the sites are administered by National Trust. The Roman sites of Britain are scattered all over the country. The Britain Roman sites are found in places like Avon, Glasgow, Scotland, Wiltshire, West Midlands, Somerset, London, Kent, Hertfordshire, Gloucestershire, Cumbria, Cambridgeshire, Yorkshire, Wales, West Sussex, Tyne and Wear, North Yorkshire, Lancashire, Isle of Wright, Gwynedd, Dorset, and Cheshire.

Popular Roman Sites in Britain

The Roman Baths: This is the most popular among the surviving Britain Roman sites. The Roman baths were utilized between the period of AD 80 and 400. The site was accidentally discovered in the year 1775 and was thereafter re-construced to its former function.

Birdoswald Fort and Hadrian's Wall: Situated in the picturesque locale of North Penines, this site is a Roman fort set along Hardrian's Wall.Fishbourne Roman Palace: This Roman Palace has its origins in the first century and is known for its baths, mosaics and a heating system that is placed under the floor.

• Bignor Roman Villa: The Bignor Villa extended over 4 acres incorporating 70 buildings during Roman times. The museum located on its site possesses an extraordinary collection of mosaics.

• Chedworth Roman Villa: This is located in Gloucestershire in a beautiful valley. The characteristics of Chedworth Roman Villa include its intricately carved mosaics and bath complexes. The on site museum houses a wide range of regional artifacts.

• Wroxeter Roman City: This is an ancient Roman city known for its bath complex.

• Lullingstone Roman Villa: These villas unearthed in 1949 are famous for their fascinating mosaic floors depicting mythical tales. The site also houses one of the ancient Christian chapels found in England.

• Housesteads Fort: Among the 13 Roman army posts, this is the best-preserved structure. This fort was constructed to bar the northern tribes from entering into Rome administered territory.

• Letocetum Baths and Museum: This is a bath house belonging to an army post on Roman Road, Walting Street. There is a museum located at the site.