Roman cavalry fort beside the North Tyne / NEAR HEXHAM

Chesters Roman Fort and Museum

Chesters makes Roman daily life tangible through the remains of a cavalry fort and its riverside bathhouse. Walk the building outlines, then use the Clayton Museum’s collection to connect the ruins with the people who occupied them. This is a focused excursion from Hexham, with outdoor exploration at its heart even though there is a museum for a sheltered part of the visit.

Chesters Roman bathhouse ruins beside the North Tyne — Photo: Steven Fruitsmaak

Before you go

Chesters is near Chollerford, not in Hexham town. Check the site calendar and both directions of the AD122 bus before planning a car-free visit.

The practical details

Where to find it: On the B6318 west of Chollerford, about 5½ miles from Hexham station, NE46 4EU.
Directions and arrival information ↗
Tickets and booking: Book ahead for the current advance rate, or buy on the day subject to opening. Members enter free; non-member parking is charged separately. Winter opening is much more limited, so do not assume a weekday bus service means the fort is open.
Access and getting around: Ramps serve the shop and museum; gravel and mown-grass paths lead around the site. Bathhouse access is restricted by slopes and steps, and low masonry can be slippery. Accessible parking and toilets are provided; contact the site about wheelchair loan.
Official access information ↗
Visiting with children: Look for the children’s trail and leave time to imagine the bathhouse in use. There is open space but no ball games; supervise around ruins and steps. Baby changing, picnic benches and a Coffee House help with breaks.

Practical information checked 14 September 2026. Confirm anything essential to your visit with the venue.

Make it part of your day

Allow 2–3 hours plus travel for the visit, plus travel and breaks. This is a suggested planning allowance; opening times, access and availability may affect your plans.

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