From the subterranean vestiges of Roman Canterbury to the singular Bacchic frescoes in Dover’s Painted House, Kent is steeped in Roman history. Richborough has strong claims to be the site of Claudius’ invasion in AD 43, whilst the coastal fort at Reculver once stood sentinel over a chain of fortifications that stretched from the Isle of Wight to the Wash.

Roman Towns, Forts and Frescoes begins with an exploration of ancient Canterbury, Durovernum Cantiacorum, first mentioned in the 2nd century Antonine Itinerary. We will trace the route of the Roman walls before visiting Canterbury’s Roman Museum, erected around the remains of a town house still adorned with in situ mosaics. Nor will we neglect the rich early Christian history of Canterbury: parts of St Martin’s Church date back to the 6th century.

Dover’s 2nd century AD Painted House formed part of a large mansio or lodge for travellers about to cross the Channel. Whilst the tile and flint walls and elaborate hypocaust are worth a visit in themselves, it is the guest-house’s colourful wall paintings – the most extensive in northern Europe – that steal the show.

Our final day will be largely devoted to the forts of Richborough and Reculver; the former defiantly retains the walls of a magnificent Roman fortress and the foundations of a monument built to commemorate the conquest of Britain. At Reculver, situated on the north coast near Herne Bay, we will discover not just the remains of a second Roman fort but also the twin 12th century towers of a ruined Anglo-Saxon church.

Our host will be the three-star Canterbury Cathedral Lodge situated in the grounds of Canterbury Cathedral.