It was the unusual signpost outside this museum which caught my eye. I wasn't sure what to expect as I walked inside, because I didn't think some of the signage looked like there would be a museum but I was pleasantly surprised! This is a small museum but it holds a lot!..
The Trimontium Trust Museum is housed in the Three Hills Roman Heritage Centre in The Ormiston in the town square in the centre of the small Scottish Borders town of Melrose.
The Trimontium Museum tells the story of the Trimontium Fort and its people. The fort stood on a 15 acre site at the foot of the three Eildon Hills, at Newstead, village, just a short trip from Melrose. This Roman Fort secured the Tweed Crossing at Newstead and at one time housed 1500 Roman soldiers, with an equal number of civilians from various trades living nearby
There is a small public car parking area (including disabled parking) directly opposite the museum. Just a short walk away is the much larger Abbey Car Park. For those using public transport, there is a one way system in Melrose and incoming buses stop outside the museum.
As I entered the museum which has free admittance (although donations are welcome). I was met by a guide, who I believe was a volunteer. The guide was so informative, there was nothing she did not know about the museum and local area. She was extremely interesting and it was obvious she very much liked her job and sharing her knowledge.
The museum is ground floor (there is level access from the street), It contains a wealth of fascinating information, there are large maps showing the Roman Fort, photos, display cases containing artefacts, drawings, replica armour, videos, a blacksmiths workshop, roman kitchen and pottery.
There is level access disabled W.C. within the museum building, There are no café facilities, but just steps away, outside the museum in The Square there are plenty of cafe's.
For those who enjoy walking, there is a guided walk (which I believe is held for a full afternoon twice a week) which leaves the Trimontium Trust Museum, takes you passed Melrose Abbey and on to the village of Newstead where the Fort was situated. I did not go on this walk so I do not know what the terrain will be like. There is a charge of £3 per adult £2.50 concessions for the guided walk which includes tea in the village hall in Newstead before the walk back to Melrose.
For those not wanting to walk there is good public transport to the village of Newstead from Melrose. Newstead is also accessible by car. As to what can be seen of the Fort, well there is only the eroded Ramparts and hollow of the amphitheatre to see, but the surrounding countryside and village is very scenic.
What I thought would be a very brief visit, actually held my attention for quite some time and I will certainly re visit next time I am in Melrose!
The museum is open April to October each year.
