The CAT Lecture Series 2025

Colchester Unearthed: From Oppidum to Empire

Join the Colchester Archaeological Trust for a compelling new lecture series at the Roman Circus Visitor Centre. Over four Wednesday evenings, members of CAT’s expert team will share insights into Colchester’s Iron Age and Roman heritage — tracing the story from its origins as a tribal capital to its development as a major Roman city through the lens of recent discoveries, long-term research, and personal highlights from over 60 years of archaeological investigation.

The talks are designed to be conversational and accessible to all, whether you’re an archaeology expert or simply curious about the rich history beneath your feet. If well received, we hope to make this an annual themed series — helping more people discover and connect with Colchester’s archaeology and heritage for years to come.

 

1. Camulodunum: What Is It, Where Is It, and How Do We Know?

Wednesday 9 July – Howard Brooks

We kick off the series in the Iron Age with an in-depth look at Camulodunum — the tribal capital of the Trinovantes and one of Britain’s earliest Roman settlements. Drawing on centuries of field survey and over a hundred years of excavation, Howard Brooks explores how we define the ancient oppidum, what we know about its layout and life, and why it remains central to our understanding of Roman Colchester.

2. Colchester beyond the walls – Excavations at Colchester Garrison

Wednesday 6 August – Ben Holloway

This richly illustrated talk explores nearly 20 years of fieldwork at Colchester Garrison — one of CAT’s largest and most significant projects in terms of understanding the Iron Age and Roman landscape outside of the walled city. From rural farmsteads to sprawling cemeteries, Ben reveals the archaeological landscape that once lay at the heart of Camulodunum, and how it contributes to our picture of life in Roman Britain.

3. Unearthing the Unexpected: New Discoveries in Roman Colchester

Wednesday 3 September – Adam Wightman

Find out about the most surprising and exciting archaeological discoveries from Colchester made over the past few years. Drawing on CAT’s latest excavations and ongoing research, this talk offers a captivating glimpse into unexpected artefacts and remains that continue to reshape our understanding of Roman Colchester. Join us for a magazine-style tour of fresh finds that reveal new stories hidden beneath the city’s streets — perfect for anyone eager to stay up to date with the cutting edge of local archaeology and history.

4. Archaeological Treasure: Eight Enchanting Objects

Wednesday 1 October – Emma Holloway

Illustrator and general finds guru Emma shares eight of her favourite artefacts from over 20 years of excavating in Colchester. From beautiful to bizarre, each Roman or Late Iron Age object has its own story — and Emma brings them to life with insight, humour, and a deep appreciation for the small things that make the past personal.

Event Details

Where: Roman Circus Visitor Centre

When: Doors open at 6:45pm for refreshments; talks start at 7:30pm

Admission: £5 per talk (+fees) – refreshments available to purchase

Booking: Tickets are available via Eventbrite — book early to avoid disappointment!

Parking: There is limited parking on site, including disabled parking. There are also public car parks nearby in Butt Road and Napier Road, which are within a short walk.

Why Attend?

This lecture series offers a rare opportunity to hear directly from CAT’s team about the discoveries and research shaping Colchester’s archaeological narrative. Your attendance helps support the Roman Circus Visitor Centre and CAT’s charitable work protecting and promoting local heritage.

Stay tuned to CAT’s website and social media for news and booking details — we look forward to welcoming you to uncover the fascinating history beneath Colchester’s streets!