A major archaeological dig in Gloucestershire, undertaken as part of the A417 Missing Link road improvement scheme, has revealed a Roman settlement that provides a window into life almost 2,000 years ago. The discoveries have been hailed as having exceeded all expectations.

The excavation took place over an 8-hectare area within the 40-hectare development zone. Credit: National Highways

The excavation, carried out by Oxford Cotswold Archaeology and supported by National Highways, took place over an 8-hectare area within the 40-hectare development zone. The settlement lay alongside Ermin Street, one of the main Roman roads linking major towns such as Cirencester and Gloucester.

The team of 70 archaeologists uncovered numerous artifacts and features, including wells, ovens, and agricultural structures. Most remarkably, these included 460 Roman coins, 15 brooches, and more than 420 kilograms of pottery and animal bone. These findings provide a vivid picture of life, trade, and the settlement’s pivotal role as a busy roadside hub.

“Our Roman settlement site was one of the standout areas of our work on the A417 project,” said Alex Thomson, Project Manager for Oxford Cotswold Archaeology. “Being able to look at a Roman roadside settlement in such extensive detail is a rare opportunity. It’s clear that the structures we’ve recorded helped serve the pᴀssing trade on a busy Roman highway; it really could be a 2000-year-old service station!”

Drone view of the Roman settlement in Gloucestershire, UK. Credit: National Highways

Gloucestershire was at the forefront of Roman expansion into Britain following the invasion in 43 CE. The Romans quickly laid a network of roads, facilitating the spread of their influence and the development of significant settlements.

Archaeology Project Manager for National Highways, Jim Keyte, said: “Exploring the traces left by our ancestors provides a unique opportunity to contribute to the story of the Cotswolds and leave a lasting legacy of knowledge for the local community.”

Fifteen brooches, 460 Roman coins, and more than 420 kilograms of pottery and animal bones were discovered. Credit: National Highways

The project has been undertaken in collaboration with Gloucestershire County Council, Historic England, and Kier, contractors for the A417 Missing Link scheme.

Steve Foxley, Project Director for the A417 Missing Link, said: “While this landscape-led scheme is focused on building a road that is fit for the future, it’s important not to forget the past and it’s been an absolute pleasure to piece together Gloucestershire’s history as part of this important upgrade.”

The findings from the excavation will be cataloged and displayed in local museums, enriching public understanding of the region’s history.

More information: Oxford Cotswold Archaeology / National Highways