Borough Hill Roman villa

Borough Hill Roman villa is an ancient residential complex in Northamptonshire that contained multiple rooms arranged around a heating system. The remains reveal construction methods using local stone, roof tiles, and plaster finishes typical of Roman domestic architecture.

This dwelling was likely built during the 1st or 2nd century after Roman forces occupied Britain. Systematic excavation by local historian Beriah Botfield in the 1850s revealed much of what we know about the site today.

The villa demonstrates Roman architectural techniques through its advanced heating system, utilizing hypocaust flues and brick supports to circulate warm air beneath the floors.

The site sits within an Iron Age hillfort and is accessible via walking paths marked on the ground. Visiting during daylight hours with clear weather helps you trace the building foundations and understand the layout of the ancient rooms.

A stone-lined well found southwest of the villa contained human remains alongside bronze items, an iron brooch, and metal tools. This unusual burial deposit suggests ritual practices that differed from typical Roman funeral customs.

Part of: Borough Hill: two Iron Age hillforts and a defended enclosure, two Bronze Age barrows, a Roman building complex and barrow cemet

GPS coordinates: 52.25810,-1.14111

Latest update: December 14, 2025 11:01