During the Roman occupation, beginning around 70 AD, the settlement in Brough was known as Petuaria. This historical landmark is part of a local history that can also be traced through Brough Haven and the Elloughton and Brough War Memorial. The themes range from Roman sites and uses to remembrance of two world wars and the present-day functions of a green open space.
Petuaria: Roman name, fort and playing field
The Roman fort at Petuaria in Brough covered about 4.5 acres. By 270 AD, Petuaria was surrounded by a stone wall 9 feet thick. The two measurements describe different aspects: the area refers to the fort, while the thickness refers to its wall. This distinguishes the size of the site from the structural detail of its enclosure.
Today’s Burrs Playing Field covers about one third of the former Roman site of Petuaria. This area should not be confused with the entire former site. This distinction is useful for understanding the place: the playing field is a present-day landmark, while the reference to the former site describes a broader historical context. A mini-museum about Petuaria has also been established in Brough Library. Together, the name, fort, wall, former site and museum offer several points of interest for travellers interested in Brough’s Roman past.
Brough Haven: former use and present-day functions
Brough Haven was used by the Romans as a naval base. At the same time, the adopted East Riding Local Plan lists Brough Haven as a green infrastructure asset valued by the local community. Its stated functions include flood alleviation, recreation and biodiversity.
These details set different time frames alongside one another: its former use as a naval base and the present-day functions listed for the Haven in the plan. Brough is therefore about more than Roman history. The role of a green open space in recreation, flood alleviation and biodiversity is also part of the character of the place.
Remembrance and dates
The Elloughton and Brough War Memorial in Brough is a Grade II listed building. It commemorates the First and Second World Wars. The listing and the dedication provide two different details: the grade identifies its heritage status, while the dedication names the wars being commemorated. Alongside the Roman focus, it offers a distinct connection to the remembrance of both world wars.
A service following the traditional and Common Worship liturgies is held at All Saints’ Church every Thursday at 10:00 am. Check the arrangements for services before visiting. A 2025 announcement gives 12 July as the start date for a community Roman festival by Petuaria ReVisited at Burrs Playing Field in Brough-on-Humber. If you are planning your trip around a future festival date, check the latest announcements.
These details are useful for different kinds of planning: the service has a recurring weekday and time, while the festival announcement gives a date. Historical landmarks and fixed dates therefore answer different questions about your stay. When choosing your destination, consider whether you are most interested in Petuaria, remembrance at the War Memorial, or the different functions of Brough Haven.
Discover more destinations: Hull, Withernsea, Rudston, Coniston, Melbourne, Driffield, Withernwick, Flamborough.
For the broader travel overview: East Riding Of Yorkshire.
