Fishbourne Roman Palace and Gardens

The UK is privileged to have so much history within its midst, and here in West Sussex we have many notable historic highlights. One of the most impressive is Fishbourne Roman Palace, which dates back as far as the year 75 AD. It’s the largest Roman residence north of the Alps, and it’s perfect for a day out that will surely never be forgotten. Going back in time is always fascinating, so be sure to add this place to your must-visit list. 

The site itself was discovered by accident back in the early 19th century. Over time, the emergence of a large Roman palace took shape, and the end result is an important archaeological masterpiece featuring original mosaics, formal gardens and of course some of the building itself. Now managed by the Sussex Archaeological Society, Fishbourne is home to a museum that has proved popular with visitors of all ages. 

One of the most interesting aspects of Fishbourne is that it was clearly the former residence of an extremely wealthy and important individual. These days, it’s commonly accepted that the person in question was Tiberius Claudius Cogidunbus, leader of a local tribe that was based across Sussex and into Kent.  

When you need a break from discovering more about the history of the place, be sure to visit the Café at the Palace, where you can take your pick from a number of tempting food and drink options. The palace is located just outside Chichester, close to the main A27 road.