Roman Britain and Arthurian Myth Summer School

Join our Roman Britain and Arthurian Myth Summer School in summer 2026.

We are delighted to be running a two-week residential programme at our historic Cirencester campus, in the heart of the Cotswolds, on 24 May - 7 June 2026.

This immersive programme offers the perfect opportunity to expand your academic horizons, explore future study options, and connect with like-minded students from around the world. The Summer School will appeal to those who want to experience the wealth of Roman remains, gain insights into archaeology, and to understand the links between history, literature and archaeological evidence. No prior experience is needed, apart from a desire to learn about this fascinating period of our history.  

Cirencester – Roman Corinium – was the capital of Britannia Prima, the western province of Britain, and by 4th century, one of the wealthiest regions of the empire. The Summer School will trace the growth and decline of Roman Britain into the so called ‘Dark Ages’, the Age of Arthur, where mythologies were created and then reimagined during the Middle Ages. This programme will appeal to anyone who is interested in late Roman Britain, the early medieval period, and the historical origins of the Arthurian myths.  

We will be located in Cirencester, with its remains and museum collection, and visit the many Roman and Dark Age sites in the region – to include villas with their mosaics, fortresses and walled towns, Roman Bath, as well as more mysterious locations, like hermits caves, inscribed stones and re-occupied Celtic hillforts. A unique feature will be the opportunity to participate in a research excavation of a Roman site in Gloucestershire with a voluntary ‘add-on’ of a further week, at low cost, where it will be possible to gain more substantial archaeological experience.  

The two-week programme schedule will comprise:

Week 1: Myth, Memory and Monument

Explore connections between Roman archaeology and the Arthurian myth through a series of themed trips, including:

• evening walk around Roman Cirencester, including an exclusive reception event
• day trip to the City of Bath
• day trip to a selection of archaeological and heritage sites in the Cotswolds
• day trips to 'Dark Age' Wales
• day trip to London

Also, listen to a series of evening lectures throughout the week, delivered by Professor Mark Horton.

Week 2: Field Archaeology

Participate in a five-day archaeological dig of a Roman site in Gloucestershire. You will learn and employ a range of techniques, including:

Field school techniques

• drone mapping
• GIS surveying
• shovel and test pitting
• archaeological excavation
• artifact mapping and recovery
• pollen sampling

Laboratory work techniques

• GIS data processing and interpretation
• drone map survey data processing and interpretation
• artefact cleaning, recording, cataloguing and identification 

Also, listen to a series of evening lectures given by Royal Agricultural University (RAU) and guest experts on Roman Britain and the Arthurian myth in archaeology and culture.

To conclude your final week (if you do not opt for an extra week of excavation), there will be a dinner on the RAU campus and presentation of certificates, ahead of a final evening lecture.

Week 3: optional extra week of excavation

Participate in an optional week of excavation, to gain further fieldwork and practical experience.

If you attend this week, in addition to the previous two weeks, you will accrue academic credits.

The cost of this extra week will be for accommodation only (cost upon request).

Who is the Programme Leader?

The Summer School will be led by world-renowned archaeologist, television presenter and author, Mark Horton, Professor of Archaeology and Pro Vice-Chancellor at the RAU, and an expert on Roman and post-Roman Britain.  

Why choose the RAU?

Location: Based in Cirencester, at the heart of the Cotswolds – one of England’s most picturesque and historic regions.

History: Founded in 1845 and granted a Royal Charter by Queen Victoria, RAU combines rich heritage with forward-thinking academic innovation. Read more about our rich heritage.

Community: Experience life on a traditional UK campus while building global friendships in a warm, supportive environment.

What's included?

• Airport transfers on arrival and departure to/from London Heathrow and Birmingham International airports
• Full-board residential accommodation at the Royal Agricultural University during week 1 and close to the Roman site in Gloucestershire (that you will be excavating) for week 2 and the optional week 3
• Local transport to all scheduled events
• Evening lectures and learning material
• Tuition and support during the excavation
• Student ambassador support, welfare, and logistics coordination
• Entry fees to all heritage sites and museums

Please note: You will need to ensure that you have your own travel insurance in place.

Explore the Cotswolds

The Cotswolds is a picturesque region in south-central England, known for its rolling hills, charming stone villages, and idyllic countryside. Designated as an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, it offers a quintessentially English experience with historic market towns, cozy pubs, and scenic walking trails. The honey-colored limestone buildings and timeless atmosphere make the Cotswolds a favorite destination for visitors seeking tranquility and rural charm. 

How much does it cost?

The full cost of the two-week programme is £5,500. The cost of the optional extra week will be for accommodation only (cost upon request)

Applicants from RAU partner institutions will receive priority consideration and a 20% discount on fees. Eligibility for this offer will be assessed during the application process.

Funding options

If you are looking at grants to cover the cost of attending our summer school, you may meet the requirements for a grant from The Roman Society. For more information, visit The Roman Society website here.

You may also meet the requirements for a Leverhulme Trust scheme. For more information, visit the Leverhulme Trust website here.

Additionally, you may meet the requirements for a grant from The Sidney Perry Foundation. For more information, visit The Sidney Perry Foundation website here.

What are the entry requirements?

• Aged 18+
• University students and those with a strong interest in archaeology and heritage.  
• For international applicants:
  • IELTS Academic score of 6.0 overall, with no less than 5.5 in each component (or equivalent)
  • A standard visitor visa may be required; visit the gov.uk website for more details. Please check the eligibility criteria depending on your personal circumstances, and follow the guidance listed.  

We welcome applicants from a range of backgrounds. If you are unsure about your eligibility or require more information, please contact us at summer.schools@rau.ac.uk.