Case Study: Opening Up Wroxeter: Creating Accessible Interpretation at a Roman Archaeological Site

What is this case study about?

This case study explores how English Heritage adapted interpretation at Wroxeter Roman City, one of Britain’s most significant Roman archaeological sites, to make it accessible for visitors with diverse needs.

The project demonstrates how heritage organisations can balance conservation with inclusive visitor experiences, using multi-sensory interpretation and improved wayfinding.

Background

Wroxeter Roman City, near Shrewsbury, was once the fourth-largest city in Roman Britain. Today, the remains of the bathhouse complex can be explored, as well as a reconstructed Roman Town House. The terrain is relatively level, but pathways are formed by loose gravel, which can be tricky to navigate for some visitors. There are also stepped access in certain locations.

These constraints risk excluding visitors with mobility, sensory, or cognitive needs.

English Heritage recognised that accessibility is not just about physical routes — it is about dignity, choice, and meaningful engagement. The project aimed to create an experience where all visitors could connect with Wroxeter’s history, even if some areas remained physically inaccessible.

Project leadership and partnerships

The initiative was led by English Heritage’s Interpretation Manager, Angharad Brading, working closely with:

• Direct Access, an accessibility consultancy that mainly employs people with lived experience
• English Heritage’s Access Manager, Nicole Stockton-Davies, considering physical access and English Heritage’s Properties Curator, Win Scutt, ensuring that interventions respected the site’s historic fabric

This collaborative approach ensured that solutions were practical, sensitive, and informed by real user needs.

Aims of the project

The project set out clear objectives:

• To provide access to the narrative of the site by providing a range of accessible resources for visitors with differing needs
• To locate the majority of site-based interpretation in the most accessible locations
• Offer alternative experiences for areas that remain inaccessible
• Reduce anxiety through clear pre-visit information
• Enrich interpretation with multi-sensory elements to engage all senses

Challenges and approach

The site’s archaeological significance meant that major structural changes were not possible. Instead, the team focused on:

• Transparency: Providing honest information about limitations so visitors can plan confidently
• Choice: Offering a range of accessible resources to allow visitors to experience the site in the most comfortable way for them to do so
• Multi-sensory engagement: Using tactile, audio, and visual interpretation to create inclusive experiences

What happened? 

The project began with a physical access audit and the appointment of an access consultancy to review designs for the new interpretation scheme and to advise and support in the development of accessible resources.

Physical improvements

• All-terrain wheelchairs were made available for visitor use around the site
• Existing seating locations were reviewed to ensure adequate seating was provided at regular intervals
• New interpretation panels were located along the edge of pathways, and the content of panels in locations accessed via steps was added to the audio tour for the site as an optional addition
• Orientation maps were added to interpretation panels to help visitors understand where in the complex they were located
• Introductory exhibition graphics used strong colours, allowing for good contrast with written information
• Colour contrast between the floor and walls was considered, as well as light levels in the exhibition
• Objects on display within showcases were arranged to allow for visibility for wheelchair users
• Gallery scopes were provided for visitor loan
• Sensory bags were provided for visitor loan
• Seating within the exhibition was provided by a bench with a back and armrests

Interpretive access

• A handheld and large-scale tactile map panel allowed visually impaired visitors to understand the site layout
• Large-print guides, gallery scopes, and Braille with object descriptions and an audio-described tour have enriched interpretation for those with visual difficulties
• A BSL video tour has helped provide access to content for visitors with hearing impairments
• Multi-sensory exhibits included volunteer-led sessions with replica artefacts for handling, connecting visitors physically with Roman history

Pre-visit resources

English Heritage published a sensory map. This transparency reduced anxiety and empowered visitors to plan their day. A detailed accessibility guide is also planned.

Impact and outcomes

The project has transformed Wroxeter into a more inclusive heritage destination. Multi-sensory interpretation has enriched experiences for all visitors, not just those with disabilities.

Lessons learnt

Looking ahead 

English Heritage has developed a toolkit for creating accessible resources for internal use, and the plan is to roll out, when interpretation projects are planned, a range of resources for visitors going forward at other English Heritage sites.

The Wroxeter project sets a benchmark for inclusive heritage practice, showing that even complex archaeological sites can offer meaningful experiences for everyone.