Segedunum Roman Fort & Museum unveils new exhibitions

Segedunum Roman Fort & Museum is excited to unveil two new exhibitions – one that explores the site’s more recent history, and one that provides an insight into some of the more unusual objects that have ended up in museum collections -  now open in Galleries 1 and 2.

These exhibitions, running until 28 February 2026 mark a new chapter for the museum, made possible by recent infrastructure upgrades to the roof and ventilation system that support the safe display of important artefacts. 
 
Collecting the Past explores the eclectic collections amassed by 19th century local museums, which aimed to bring “the world under one roof.” It features a range of archaeological objects and delves into what we know, or still don’t know, about their origins and significance. 
 
Streets Above: Photographs of the Roads and Buildings that Covered Roman Wallsend is a visual journey through the transformation of the fort site through a collection of photographs of the housing once built for shipyard workers in the late 19th century. These streets, demolished in the 1970s and 1980s, reveal a dramatically different landscape from the Roman fort that now stands. 
 
The museum now boasts a brand-new roof and a state-of-the-art air conditioning and air handling system, replacing the previous roof which had reached the end of its lifespan. 
  
This modern ventilation system will ensure a more consistent indoor climate, enhancing comfort for both visitors and staff. Crucially, it also enables Segedunum to safely host and display artefacts on loan from prestigious institutions such as the British Museum. 
  
Geoff Woodward, Museum Manager at Segedunum, said:  
 
“Segedunum’s new exhibitions are a must-see for anyone passionate about uncovering the layers of our past. From rare artefacts collected in the 19th century to evocative 20th century photographs of lost streets above the Roman fort, these displays offer a unique window into the richness of history, both locally and internationally. 
 
“We’re thrilled to share these stories with visitors and deeply grateful to Arts Council England, the UK Shared Prosperity Fund via the North East Combined Authority, and North Tyneside Council for the funding that made our infrastructure upgrades possible.” 
 
Visitors can also look forward to the Hadrian Festival, returning on 23 and 24 August. Highlights include live re-enactments featuring Roman weaponry, cavalry parades, armour maintenance demonstrations, cooking and crafts and a special appearance by Emperor Hadrian himself, celebrating his anniversary of becoming ruler.