The Celts and Romans in Britain
The Celts in Iron Age Britain
In the Iron Age, the people of Britain lived in tribes. Today these people are often called 'Celts'.
The Celts controlled most of central Europe and by 700BC they also conquered the lands of Northern Spain. The Celts were a force in Britain by 480BC. Celtic tribes continued to migrate to Britain and to dominate the country.
Use our interactive map of Celtic Lands and the Roman Empire to find out more about events that shaped their history. On the map you will see how their lands expanded but how they eventually were overtaken by the Romans. The map has features to read about their history on the timeline and to see where their key settlements and trade routes were.
Or use the resources below to find out more about the culture and social history of the Celts and the Romans.
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Celtic Resistance to the Roman Invasion of Britain
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Celtic Farming in the Iron Age
The people of Britain began farming about 5,000 years ago during the Neolithic period (New Stone Age). The Bronze and Iron Ages witnessed a number of advances in farming. ...
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The Romans in Britain
The Romans with their well-organised armies became the dominant power in the ancient world. Julius Caesar entered the history books when he led his Roman legions to conquer Gaul and then in 55BC he attacked Britain. The Romans did not settle in Britain until they renewed their attack on the island nearly a hundred years later. Then they ruled much of Britain until the legions departed to protect Rome nearly four hundred years later.
Use our resources to discover more:
Food in Romano Britain
The Roman invaders contributed to the long-term improvement of the British diet by introducing proper vegetables to the island.
They brought new farming practices and crops and new breeds of animals.
Learn how the rich and the poor and even the Roman Army ate.
Roman Lady Dining
Image courtesy © 'Grosvenor Museum, Chester City Council'
Technology in Romano Britain
An interactive tour of a Roman gold mine. Includes an animation of a water wheel used to empty the Dolaucothi gold mine of water. ...
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History Books and Resources
Read reviews of history books and history websites.
Search Resources For History for historical information and find interactive history resources related to the Romans and Celts in Britain.