The Roman Fort at Binchester (Morbium) was one of four forts built along Roman Dere Street as it passed through what is now County Durham, on its way to Corbridge and Hadrian's Wall. Binchester Roman Fort is substantial, covering an area of some nine acres, making it one of the largest forts in northern Britain. Built initially from timber, cAD79, Binchester Roman Fort was rebuilt in stone early in the 2nd century, probably around the time of Emperor Hadian.

Following the traditional Roman plan, Binchester Fort is rectangular in shape with a tower at each corner and a centrally located gate along each of the perimeter walls. Between each of the four gates and corner towers would have been a further defensive tower. Traversed by Dere Street on its east/west axis, Binchester Roman Fort comprised an internal arrangement of barrack blocks, granaries, workshops, a headquarters building, and the commandant's house. Although the commandant's house contained a private bath house there would also have been a bath house for the garrison, which was usually situated somewhere outside of the main perimeter wall. Large parts of Binchester Roman Fort, predominately to the west and south, still remain unexcavated as they lie under more recent buildings.

Today's remains are concentrated in the eastern section of Binchester Roman Fort. Serious excavations were first carried out during the late 19th century by John Proud, Bishop of Auckland, and Reverend R E Hoppell. They discovered the commandant's house, the eastern defences, and an unknown civilian settlement, or Vicus, that often grew up outside of a fort to supply the garrison's day to day needs. Further excavations were carried out during the 20th century and have been ongoing to this day. The visible remains comprise a short cobbled section of Dere Street that passed through the eastern gate of Binchester Roman Fort, together with a substantial part of the commandant's house. The main feature of this building is the private bath house, probably one of the best preserved examples in the country. The bath house is now protected under a modern museum building with information boards to help explain the various rooms and features.

Binchester Roman Fort appears to have been in constant military use throughout most of the Roman occupation of Britain, right up until the final withdrawal, cAD410. Evidence suggests that the fort buildings continued in use throughout the 5th century and well into the 6th century, by which time stone and other materials was being robbed for new buildings elsewhere. A good example of this is at nearby Escomb church where several Roman inscriptions can be seen, including one that refers to the 6th legion who are believed to have been responsible for Binchester Roman Forts reconstruction in stone. After the Norman Conquest Bishop Auckland became the main town in the region, and Binchester slipped quietly into antiquity.

Whether as a curious visitor or a Roman enthusiast, the little known Binchester Roman Fort is a 'must see' site for anyone visiting County Durham. Although the remains are not extensive compared to other forts like Housesteads, the bath house alone is a truly remarkable survival and well worth the effort.