Roman Gladiators: Watch Battles in the Arena
3 & 4 May 2026
Step back in time and immerse yourself in the sites and sounds ancient Rome. Explore a roman encampment, try on armour and witness roman life in action. Cheer for your favourite gladiator and witness their incredible skills and bravery. Marvel at the strategies, strength and agility displayed and remember… their fate lies in your hands.
Living History Encampments
Explore our immersive Roman encampment around the arena. Try on authentic gladiator equipment, learn how it was used in battle, and experience the life of a Roman fighter. Discover the foods enjoyed in late Roman Britain and step into the daily routines, skills, and stories that shaped Roman life.
Gladiatorial Displays
Throughout the day, witness the remarkable skill and bravery of our gladiators as they recreate the excitement and brutality of the late Roman period. Our fighters come from all walks of life, criminals, barbarians, prisoners of war, disgraced soldiers, and fearless thrill-seekers. Each gladiator steps into the arena to fight for survival, honour, and the roar of the crowd. Your cheers or jeers could seal their fate… for in the Roman arena, the power of life or death lies in the hands of the spectators.
Watch Highlights
Roman Gladiators is annual event. Take a look at our video for highlights from the 2024 event.
Event Information
This is a Premium Admission Day
Free entry for COAM Annual Members
Activities take place between 10:45am and 4pm
Includes live combat displays
There is a disabled viewing area in the arena
Meet the Re-enactors
Our gladiators are bought to life by Britannia, one of the largest (and oldest) re-enactment groups in the U.K.. Britannia has worked on over 150 TV and film projects, including Ridley Scott’s Gladiator and CBBC’s Horrible Histories.
General Museum Information
With 45 acres at your disposal, there is plenty to explore, including woodlands and an exciting adventure playground
Dogs on short leads are welcome but must not go inside residential buildings
Light lunches, drinks, cakes and snacks are available to purchase from our Skippings Barn
Sensory backpacks are available to borrow (subject to availability)
Mobility scooters are available to borrow (subject to availability - pre-booking is advised)
Lots of free parking
Photography and filming may take place during this event for the Museum archives and publicity. These photographs and video footage may appear in promotional or educational materials including on our websites, social media pages, newsletters, or in newspapers and magazines. If you do not wish to be photographed, please speak to the photographer.