Free
- Activity
Roman Festival
23 to 25 August 2025
Roman Holidays
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Gladiators ready? They are at the Royal Armouries!
Don't miss our new blockbuster exhibition - Gladiators: Heroes of the Colosseum, and an exciting summer holiday programme.
History from Ancient Rome right through to the 20th century will be brought to life with live combat demonstrations, dramatic performances and battle stories every day.
There'll also be craft activities, an exhibition trail, plus a whole museum of treasures to explore.
Summer Event Info
Daily Programme
Watch as our team of interpreters and combat experts bring history to life from Ancient Rome to the Second World War. Highlights include medieval combat, blank-firing demonstrations of Second World War firearms, and dramatic stories from war and conflict across the ages.
Up to five dangerously entertaining presentations every day. Check the daily programme on arrival at the museum.
Show: Death or Glory?
Don't miss this gladiator-themed show. Watch our Lanista, trainer and manager of gladiators, test the combat skills of a captured enemy of Rome. Thumbs up or thumbs down - you the audience will decide their fate!
12pm daily - Free
Craft Activities
Make your own gladiator helmet to take home.
Daily 10am to 4pm
This is a free activity. Suggested donation £5
Museum Trail
Pick up a free VE Day-themed trail and explore the museum on a hunt for clues to crack the code.
Daily 10am to 5pm
Royal Armouries reserves the right to alter the programme without prior notification.
Book your museum visit
As a national museum admission is free but please pre-book your general admission tickets here.
Book Tickets for Museum EntryBlockbuster Exhibition
If you are going to see our amazing exhibition - Gladiators: Heroes of the Colosseum - your exhibition tickets include admission to the museum so no need to book general admission tickets.
Fire their imaginations this summer as you step back in time to the world of the Gladiators of ancient Rome.
See original helmets and armour, plus rare Roman artefacts from the gladiators' barracks in Pompeii and the Colosseum in Rome. Discover the gruelling training and battle tactics of these fierce fighters. Immerse yourself in the roar of the crowd with thrilling interactive experiences.
This is more than history - it’s blood, grit, glory… and you’re on the front row.
We are expecting the school holidays to be busy so please pre-book your exhibition tickets to guarantee your visit. Timed entry slots from 10am to 4pm.
Tickets Adult £6.50, Child £4, Under 3s Free, Concessions £4
Exhibition Trail for Kids - Pick up a free interactive trail leaflet at the entrance to the exhibition.
Your exhibition tickets include admission to the museum. The museum is open from 10am to 5pm.
