Caerleon Roman Fortress
South west Wales
The Romans once subjugated vast swathes of Wales from this military complex on the banks of the River Usk.
'Isca', as the Romans knew it, was the base of the Second Augustan Legion from the late 1st century AD. Today, it is one of the best-preserved Roman sites in Britain. The baths, barracks and fortress wall are all much in evidence, but the real star is the amphitheatre - a vast earthwork which once hosted regular gladiatorial bouts.
There is plentiful parking at Caerleon and an attractive visitor centre. The winding streets of the town itself have considerable charm.