Show: Digging into Roman London
-
Prepare to be thrilled by London's Roman past.
Nearly two thousand years ago London was known as Londinium, a bustling home to people from across the world. But what was life really like? And what Roman treasures lie buried beneath the streets of modern London?
Join a storyteller to uncover real objects from our archaeology collection and explore the people, places and events that shaped the Roman city, from the chaos of Boudica's revolt to the everyday lives of those who called Londinium home.
But be careful – some objects might bring ancient memories to life!
Shows take place in the N. Sethia Showspace. Our shows programme was developed with the kind support of Terra Firma Capital Partners, with ongoing support for Showspace from Tishman Speyer.
Voice of the Egyptian Goddess Isis provided by Stacey Arthur.
Please be aware this show includes discussion of human remains. The performance contains loud noises and sudden movements. Please email the Learning team if you have any questions about the content, or to discuss any particular sensitivities within your class.
Pupils will:
- understand how artefacts help us build a picture of the past
- understand what life was like in Roman London
- develop an awareness of the diversity of Roman London’s population
Key stage 2 History – the Roman Empire and its impact on Britain.
Pupils will learn about:
- Roman Britain and Roman London
- Boudica and British resistance
- the impact of the Roman Empire on Britain, including culture, beliefs and food
- archaeology, historical enquiry and primary sources
When you arrive at the museum, one of our friendly team members will greet you and show you to toilets, galleries and Showspace. They'll be on hand to answer any questions you may have.
During the show you will be part of a shared experience with other schools, with up to three classes attending at the same time. You will:
- be seated together in a theatre space, sitting on large benches
- watch a live Romans show designed for key stage 2
- be encouraged to participate throughout
When you book, you will be given a timetable for your visit including:
- your arrival time
- time to explore the Roman Shop and Home gallery
- free time
No food or drink is allowed inside Showspace.
Uncover real objects from our archaeology collection.
“Using real examples of people brought the artefacts to life”
— Teacher feedback on the Digging into Roman London show
Need to know
All shows are completely free but advance booking is required.
Book Digging into Roman London – AM show (11am showtime)
Book Digging into Roman London – PM show (1pm showtime)
Find us at London Museum, General Market, West Smithfield, London, EC1A 9AG.
The closest stations are Farringdon (Elizabeth line, Thameslink, Circle, Hammersmith & City and Metropolitan), Barbican (Circle, Hammersmith & City and Metropolitan) and St Paul's (Central).
Lots of bus routes also stop within a short walk of the museum, including 4, 8, 25, 46, 56, 63, 100, 172, 242, 521.
There is a dedicated space for wheelchairs. Please let us know when booking if you require wheelchair space.
Anyone can leave the room at any point during the show, but children must be accompanied by an adult.
Shows take place at 11.15am and 1pm and last for one hour including entry and exit from Showspace.
Your arrival time, gallery visit and break slot will be assigned based on which show you book. You will be sent a full timetable when you book.
Please be aware that you are booking a timetabled package that includes a set arrival time, show time, self-led gallery time and a break slot.
Unfortunately, our dedicated lunch space isn’t ready yet but we’re working on it.
We require a minimum of 15 pupils per booking. Each booking can accommodate up to 30 pupils and 6 accompanying adults.
Please do not take any photos or videos in Showspace as there will be pupils from other schools present.
Although schools can book shows for free, we will need to charge a cancellation fee for any cancellations or no-shows to cover staff costs.
