Villa rustica of Great Witcombe

Villa rustica of Great Witcombe is a Roman estate spread across four terraced levels carved into a hillside, with residential areas, a multi-chamber bath house, and connecting galleries. The layout reveals how the owners organized their property to suit the sloped terrain.

Construction began between 150 and 200 CE, followed by expansions into the late third century and early fifth century. These successive building phases reflect how the estate grew wealthier and larger over time.

The bath house displays multiple rooms decorated with mosaic floors, showing how Romans brought their bathing customs to this corner of Britain. Walking through these spaces, you can sense the daily routines of a prosperous household.

Low walls mark out the building remains, with sections of the bath house protected by roof structures. The hillside setting means you will encounter steps between terraces as you explore the different levels of the site.

An octagonal room added in the fourth century stands apart from the other structures, suggesting it may have served ceremonial or religious purposes. Its unusual shape contrasts sharply with the rectangular design of the rest of the house, hinting at different building approaches in late Roman Britain.

Location: Great Witcombe

Website: https://english-heritage.org.uk/visit/places/great-witcombe-roman-villa

GPS coordinates: 51.82670,-2.14740

Latest update: December 11, 2025 18:08