AttractionEnglish Heritage

Richborough Roman Fort and Amphitheatre

Sandwich, Kent

Where the Roman invasion of Britain began in AD 43, with all outdoor areas open to your dog, though check the amphitheatre field for livestock first.

This is arguably the most significant Roman site in Britain, because Roman Britain started here. The invading army came ashore at Richborough in AD 43 and built a fortress to defend their bridgehead, and the site then saw the province's heyday, marked by an enormous triumphal arch, and its end as a fortified Saxon Shore stronghold.

As you climb the meticulously recreated timber Roman gateway, standing on its exact original spot, for panoramic views over the whole site and the Kent countryside, your dog has the run of all outdoor areas on the lead. The one specific note is worth taking seriously: English Heritage ask you to check the amphitheatre field for farm animals first, and advise against entering with a dog if livestock are present, because the amphitheatre is a separate field a short walk from the main site.

There is a free car park for 30 to 40 cars, plus a café, shop, toilets, museum, gardens and picnic seating. The museum holds finds from the earliest days of the invasion, and is the one place your dog cannot follow you. Sandwich and the Stour walks are nearby.

At a Glance

Dog Access: On-lead in the grounds; Dogs on leads are welcome in all outdoor areas. However, please check the amphitheatre field for farm animals; if there are animals in the field, we advise against entering with a dog.
Site Type: Castle & Fort
Entry: £10.20 adult; £5.10 child · £25.50 family
Members: Free for English Heritage members
Facilities: Café / restaurant, Gardens, Museum, Parking, Picnic seating, Shop, Toilets, Wheelchair access
Telephone: 01304 612013
Parking: Free car park for about 30-40 cars.

English Heritage Membership

Planning Your Visit

Opening times

Monday: Closed
Tuesday: Closed
Wednesday: 10:00 - 17:00
Thursday: 10:00 - 17:00
Friday: 10:00 - 17:00
Saturday: 10:00 - 17:00
Sunday: 10:00 - 17:00

Opening times and prices were checked on 26 August 2026 and are subject to change, and some sites close for events or over winter. Confirm on the English Heritage site page before you travel.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Richborough Roman Fort and Amphitheatre dog friendly?
Yes, dogs are welcome at Richborough Roman Fort and Amphitheatre, with access to all outdoor areas of the site on a lead. The one exception is the museum, which is indoors and off-limits to dogs, so you'll need to leave them outside if you want to browse the Roman finds inside.
Are dogs allowed at Richborough Roman Fort and Amphitheatre year round?
The listing confirms dogs are welcome in the outdoor areas, but there's no specific seasonal restriction mentioned for dog access. It's always worth checking English Heritage's website for current opening times and any changes before you visit.
What should I know before visiting Richborough Roman Fort and Amphitheatre with my dog?
The main thing to be aware of is the amphitheatre, which is a separate field a short walk from the main site — English Heritage ask you to check for farm animals before entering, and advise against going in with your dog if livestock are present. Beyond that, keep your dog on a lead throughout and be prepared to leave them outside while you visit the museum. On the plus side, there's a free car park, a café, picnic seating and gardens, and the Sandwich and Stour walks are nearby if you want to extend your day out.