BINCHESTER ROMAN FORT
Binchester, or Vinovia to give it its Latin name, was the largest Roman fort in County Durham and was accompanied by a very extensive civil settlement.
Displayed remains include part of the commanding officer’s residence with an attached bath-building. Excavated in the 1970s the bath-building features one of the best preserved examples of a hypocaust (underfloor heating system) in the whole of Britain.
During 2018 the timber building protecting the baths was replaced by a new and more robust structure’ decorated internally in the Roman style affording a much improved visitor experience. Also on display are the stupendously well-preserved remains of part of the regimental bath-building outside the fort which has walls still standing 2 metres (7 feet) above Roman floor level.
Opening dates and times 2020: Wednesday April 1st until Saturday October 31st Daily 10.00am-4.30pm Entrance fees: Adults - £5.00, concessions - £4.00, children - £3.00 (aged four and under free). Event days: Adults - £7.00, concessions - £6.00, children - £5.00. (we can now take card and contactless payments). Group visits and guided tours must be booked in advance (guided tours out of normal opening season are possible by prior arrangement). Contact details: tel: 01388 663089. Out of season: 03000 267013. www.durham.gov.uk/binchester
Re-enactment events 2020 Monday May 25 Bank Holiday - Ancient Crafts and Technology Weekend July 11/12 – Roman Festival featuring mock battles along with displays of slingshots, archery and catapult artillery. Monday August 31 Bank Holiday – Roman Military displays. Events commence at 11.00am, repeated 2.00pm.
Location The fort lies about 1 mile north of Bishop Auckland beside the road that runs from the town hall square to Newfield. It is signposted from A690 Durham-Crook, from A688 Spennymoor-Bishop Auckland, and from Bishop Auckland town centre. Postcode DL14 8DJ. Because of the sharp turn in to the access lane, coaches are strongly advised to approach from Bishop Auckland town hall square via Wear Chare (turn at the Merry Monk Inn).
Facilities and restrictions There is ample parking space for cars and coaches. The majority of the site is fully accessible and the reception building incorporates a shop selling souvenirs and a range of publications and modest refreshment facilities. The site has portaloo toilets. Please note that only assistance dogs are allowed on site.