Cultural Devon / Devon's History and Heritage / Roman Devon

Roman Devon

1600 years have passed since the Romans left Devon, but still here and there, across the county, you can catch fascinating glimpses of those far-off days.

The conquering Roman troops, led by Vespasian, founded Exeter around 48AD, constructing a great legionary fortress on the spur overlooking the valley of the Exe to serve as their base, with Topsham as the supply port.

Go north and follow the Romans' route along a line of forts right up to the north coast beacon fortlet at Martinhoe - but visit it soon before the sea washes it away! Okehampton, Cullompton and Plymouth all have signs of Roman occupation.

Gracious living certainly reached Devon in Roman times: visit the remains of a bath house at Honeyditches, with fragments of mosaic and major timber buildings.

No Roman invasion would be complete without its roads, so Devon has its own Fosse Way, running down through Honiton and Exeter towards Torquay.