Clay days return to Newport Roman Villa

Published: 6 February 2023

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Get 'hands on with history' on Monday, 13 February and Wednesday, 15 February when Newport Roman Villa opens it doors for two family-friendly clay days.

Inspired by the incredible building skills of the Romans, visitors will be able to make their own clay tile to take home.

Box flue tiles were used in Roman villas to take the hot air from the underfloor heating up the side of the walls. They were often decorated with elaborate patterns so the wall plaster would adhere.

Families can learn Roman construction techniques and make and decorate their own miniature box flue tile to take home. These also make for a great pencil holder.

Younger visitors can make a flat tile or just come along and be inspired by the Roman remains and make their own artistic clay creation.

The activity is just £1 per person, including admission to this incredible third century Roman farmhouse. Drop in between 10am and 2pm. No booking is required and the activities are suitable for all ages.

Newport Roman Villa in Cypress Road is a fascinating site for all ages and includes a small Roman styled garden and display of archaeological finds.

The villa provides a fine example of a Roman winged corridor farmhouse and has an incredibly well preserved bath suite with hot and cold baths and underfloor heating.

The site is also a Scheduled Ancient Monument looked after by the Isle of Wight Council’s Heritage Service.

Find out more

For more information on the events, call (01983) 823433/529720, email: museums@iow.gov.uk or visit:  www.iwight.com/museums