Discover Something New This July
This July, the Museum opens its doors wide to archaeology, creativity, and calm exploration - a month shaped for curious minds of all ages.
Archaeology In Action
The Discovery Centre is open once again, welcoming Cotswold Archaeology and our brilliant volunteers back into the space from Thu 2 Jun - Sat 10 Oct. Across these months, the team will be on site every Thursday, Friday and Saturday, sorting and studying another 1,000 boxes of Gloucester’s past - beginning with finds from Eastgate, Northgate and an intriguing dig at Bourton‑on‑the‑Water.
Visitors can drop in, meet the archaeologists, watch real behind‑the‑scenes work unfold, and take a quiet moment to explore objects from Gloucester’s long history. Younger visitors can follow a themed trail designed to spark curiosity and close looking.
This summer programme is made possible thanks to Arts Council England, Cotswold Archaeology, and the volunteers whose expertise and enthusiasm bring the space to life.
July Highlights
This month’s standout events take you beneath the city and deep into its Roman, medieval and Iron Age stories.
The King’s Bastion with Andrew Armstrong
tHU 23 jUL
Step into the hidden chamber beneath King’s Walk as City Archaeologist Andrew Armstrong reveals towering stretches of Roman wall and the medieval bastion built directly onto it. Hear how these remains were uncovered, why they were preserved, and what they reveal about Gloucester’s layered past. Suitable for ages 11+.
Linda Proud: Author Talk & Book Signing
Thu 30 Jul
Historical fiction author Linda Proud reimagines Iron Age Glevum, sharing how she envisioned the Dobunni at the moment Rome extended its frontier to the Fosse Way. With readings from Chariot of the Soul and The Albios Way, this is an evocative journey into a landscape long vanished but powerfully brought to life. Suitable for ages 11+.
What’s On This July
Hands on makes, quiet moments and little journeys into Gloucester’s past - July is full of ways to explore.
Nature Journal Workshop (U16)
Sat 25 Jul
Artist Claire Taylor-Jones leads young creators through ammonite themed journaling, using real objects from our handling collection to inspire spirals, patterns and fossil rich details. Suitable for ages 5–16.
Nature Journal Workshop (Over 16s)
Sat 25 Jul
A peaceful creative session for adults and older teens, also centred on ammonites, their curves, textures and ancient forms offering thoughtful prompts for journaling. Suitable for ages 16+.
Civic Trust: Roman Gloucester Walk
Fri 3 & 17 Jul
Begin at the Museum and journey into Roman Glevum, heading down into the Eastgate Chamber to see real Roman walls and gateways. Follow ancient street lines, stand where the four gates once met, and meet Emperor Nerva in statue form before returning to explore the artefacts that tie the walk together. For ages 7+.
Roman Tour of Eastgate Chamber
Sat 25 Jul
Join auxiliary soldier Lucius beneath the city for a lively, story rich introduction to Gloucester’s Roman walls, how they were built, how they changed, and why they still matter. For ages 5+.
Quiet Mornings
Every Thu
Ease into the day with our weekly Quiet Mornings, a softer, calmer way to explore the Museum. Sounds are lowered, lights are gentler, and there’s plenty of room to wander at your own pace. No booking needed, and you’re welcome to stay after 12pm when the Museum returns to its usual buzz. Suitable for all ages.
Come and Discover With Us
July is a month of hidden chambers, ancient stories, creative sparks and gentle exploration. Whether you’re diving into archaeology, sketching ammonites, or wandering through Roman Gloucester, there’s something new waiting for you at every turn!