Step Back in Time at the Ribchester Roman Festival 2026
History will come alive once again this summer as the much-loved Ribchester Roman Festival returns to the heart of the Ribble Valley on Saturday 11th and Sunday 12th July 2026.
Set in one of Britain’s most important Roman sites, the annual festival offers a fascinating and entertaining weekend for families, history enthusiasts and curious visitors alike.
Ribchester was once home to the Roman cavalry fort of Bremetennacum Veteranorum, established nearly 2,000 years ago on the banks of the River Ribble, and the festival celebrates this remarkable heritage in spectacular style.
Experience Roman Britain First-Hand
Visitors can immerse themselves in Roman life through a packed programme of re-enactments, demonstrations and interactive displays.
Two renowned historical re-enactment groups, the Roman Military Research Society and Equistry, will transform Ribchester Playing Fields into a bustling Roman encampment.
Throughout the weekend, you can expect:
- Thrilling Roman cavalry displays
- Military drills and battle demonstrations
- Roman artillery and archery exhibitions
- Authentic encampments and living history displays
- Opportunities to meet Roman soldiers and civilians
- Family-friendly activities and educational experiences
The festival offers a rare chance to see how Roman soldiers lived, trained and fought while learning about everyday life in Roman Britain.
Explore Lancashire’s Roman Heritage
No visit would be complete without exploring the nearby Ribchester Roman Museum, Lancashire’s only dedicated Roman antiquities museum.
The museum houses an impressive collection of artefacts discovered in and around the ancient fort, helping visitors understand the significance of Ribchester’s Roman past.
The village itself is steeped in history, with visible remains of the Roman fort, granaries and bathhouse still present today. It’s a unique opportunity to walk through a landscape that has witnessed nearly two millennia of history.
A Great Family Day Out
Whether you’re a dedicated history buff, looking for an educational day out with the children, or simply seeking something different to do in the Ribble Valley this summer, the Ribchester Roman Festival offers something for everyone.
The combination of live action, historical authenticity and hands-on activities makes it one of Lancashire’s most distinctive annual events and a highlight of the Ribble Valley calendar.
Event Details
Ribchester Roman Festival 2025
📅 Saturday 11th July & Sunday 12th July 2026
📍 Ribchester Playing Fields, Ribchester, Lancashire
🎟️ Family-friendly event
🏛️ Organised by Ribchester Roman Museum
For the latest ticket information and festival updates, visit the Ribchester Roman Museum website.
So gather the family, don your toga if you dare, and prepare to march back in time for an unforgettable Roman adventure in the Ribble Valley.
