Visit to Castleford Museum and Leeds City Museum – curator led tours of Roman sections

Castleford was founded by the Roman Army when a temporary fort was built at the crossing point of the River Aire. Roman activity continued until at least the 3rd century when focus changed to trade and production.Archaeological digs in the 1970’s and 1980’s uncovered the well preserved remains of a Roman bath house as well as evidence of spoon production, brooch making, lead seal boxes and some incredibly well preserved leather objects. A selection of these objects are now on display at Castleford Museum together with a replica of the Iron Age chariot found in 2003 during the widening of the A1M. Dave Evans, Museum Curator will give us a private tour of the museum.

In the afternoon we will be given a guided tour of the Roman section of Leeds City Museum where we will view objects from the Dalton Parlours Villa, artefacts from Aldborough Roman Town including the Romulus and Remus mosaic. This mosaic was discovered in 1834 and shortly afterwards was removed to Boroughbridge where it formed the foundation of a garden room. Purchased by Leeds Philosophical Society in the 1860’s it now takes pride of place in Leeds City Museum.

Minibus travel from Aldborough will be available for this visit.