Were Roman roads always completely straight?

No. Surveyors used straight sections where practical, but changed alignment for rivers, cliffs, steep hillsides and other obstacles. Extreme gradients could be taken by a zigzag, and unnecessary summits were avoided.

How can you recognise a Roman road?

Possible clues include a straight alignment, raised agger, surviving metalling, side ditches, culverts and boundaries following the course. None proves a Roman origin alone, so check archaeological records and beware of railways or later roads.

Can you legally walk wherever an OS map marks a Roman road?

No. The archaeological label does not create access. Follow a public road or right of way, use land covered by a valid open-access right, or obtain permission. Check the local authority's definitive map if the status is unclear.

The Landscape We Built

Roman Roads Were Straight-ish: How Engineers Chose Routes

Roman roads used direct surveyed sections but changed course for steep slopes, rivers and difficult ground. Their archaeology is fascinating, but a Roman-road label does not create a public right of way.

8 August 20266 min read