Longovicium

Longovicium is a Roman fort situated on Dere Street that covers an area of roughly 160 by 140 meters (525 by 460 feet). Parts of the original stone walls built by the Romans remain visible at certain locations on the site.

The fort was built around 150 AD by the Legio XX Valeria Victrix and served as part of Roman frontier defense. It remained active until roughly 400 AD, when it was eventually abandoned.

The civilian settlement along Dere Street brought together people from different parts of the Roman Empire who lived and worked side by side. This mixing of cultures shaped the character of the place during its active years.

The site sits on private land and is not open to public access, but sections of the walls can be viewed from nearby roads. Visitors should observe from a distance and respect the private ownership of the property.

Columns from the original fort were later incorporated into the construction of the 12th-century All Saints Church nearby. A Roman altar remains preserved inside this church to this day.

Location: Lanchester

GPS coordinates: 54.81600,-1.75500

Latest update: December 9, 2025 18:47