Places to visit 5
To see the barrows, shown on O.S. map as tumuli, follow the route of a prehistoric trackway that leads across the chalk downland, particularly on Mottistone and Brighstone downs and now
part of Tennyson long distance trail.
Walk the path over National Trust land at Headon Warren - named after the
huge barrow you will see at the end of the ridge. The path starts at Alum Bay.
Visit the Roman Villas at Brading and Newport, open to the public from
approx. April-October and by prior appointment in winter.
Opening times and admission charges on application.
Brading Roman Villa
Yarbridge, Brading.
Believed to have been the centre of a rich and prosperous farming estate
with fine mosaic floors. West wing is displayed under cover with
well preserved exquisite mosaic floors.
Tel: (01983) 406223
Newport Roman Villa
Cypress Road, Newport.
Part 3rd century historic house, part museum. Well preserved baths, reconstructed rooms and Roman garden. Museum displays an array of excavated finds, including
a skull of one of its last inhabitants.
Tel: (01983) 529720
Further reading
Romans on the Isle of Wight
A history of the Isle of Wight in Roman times with colour illustrations.
Isle of Wight Council.
Newport Roman Villa
Illustrated teacher's workbook
Newtown Study Pack
Isle of Wight Council's study pack for schools and students
Roman Wight
Isle of Wight Council