Fodor's Expert Review Chesters Roman Fort

In a wooded valley on the banks of the North Tyne River, four miles north of Hexham, this cavalry fort was known as Cilurnum in Roman times, when it protected the point where Hadrian's Wall crossed the river. Although the setting is not as dramatic as the nearby Housesteads Roman Fort, this mazelike layout of surviving fortifications is said to be Britain's most complete Roman cavalry fort, while the military bathhouse by the river is the best-preserved Roman structure of its kind in the British Isles. The museum includes a fascinating array of artifacts, including jewelry and statues of river gods. Regular Roman-themed events are held here throughout the summer, from falconry to battle re-enactments.