Fancy a journey through time? Lace up your boots and prepare for an unforgettable adventure as you walk Hadrian’s Wall, one of Britain’s most iconic ancient monuments. Stretching 73 miles across northern England, Hadrian’s Wall offers history buffs and outdoor enthusiasts alike a chance to explore Roman Britain’s fascinating legacy. As you walk Hadrian’s Wall, you’ll encounter a wealth of historical treasures. Here are the top 10 must-see sights that no Hadrian’s Wall walk would be complete without.
Begin your Hadrian’s Wall walk at Segedunum, the eastern terminus of the wall. This well-preserved fort offers a brilliant introduction to life on Hadrian’s Wall. Climb the 35-metre viewing tower for a bird’s-eye view of the excavated fort layout, then explore the excellent museum to learn about Roman military life. Don’t miss the full-scale reconstruction of a Roman bath house – a perfect warm-up for your Hadrian’s Wall walk!
As you continue to walk Hadrian’s Wall westward, you’ll come across Chesters Roman Fort, home to the best-preserved Roman cavalry fort in Britain. Marvel at the incredibly well-preserved bathhouse and explore the museum’s collection of Roman artefacts. The site’s picturesque setting along the River North Tyne makes it a splendid spot for a picnic during your Hadrian’s Wall walk.
No walk along Hadrian’s Wall would be complete without a visit to Housesteads, the most complete Roman fort in Britain. As you explore the ruins, you’ll get a vivid sense of what life was like for the 800 Roman soldiers stationed here. Don’t miss the ancient communal loos – a rare glimpse into Roman sanitation! The dramatic views from this hilltop fort are a highlight of any Hadrian’s Wall walk.
Just south of Hadrian’s Wall lies Vindolanda, a must-see archaeological wonder. This active excavation site continues to yield fascinating finds, including the famous Vindolanda tablets – the oldest surviving handwritten documents in Britain. The on-site museum showcases an impressive collection of Roman artefacts, making it an essential stop on your Hadrian’s Wall walk.
As you walk Hadrian’s Wall further west, you’ll reach Birdoswald, one of the best places to see long stretches of Hadrian’s Wall. This fort boasts the longest continuous stretch of the wall still visible today. Explore the remains of the fort’s gates, granaries, and defensive towers, and enjoy spectacular views over the Irthing Valley. It’s a prime spot for imagining the scale and grandeur of Hadrian’s Wall during your walk.
For a truly dramatic view of Hadrian’s Wall, make sure to include Cawfields Quarry in your walk. This deep chasm was created by quarrying, which has exposed a striking cross-section of Hadrian’s Wall. It’s one of the highest standing sections of the wall and offers fantastic photo opportunities for those walking Hadrian’s Wall.
As you continue your Hadrian’s Wall walk, you’ll reach Walltown Crags, where the wall snakes dramatically along the ridge of the Whin Sill. This section offers some of the most spectacular views along the entire length of Hadrian’s Wall. The undulating landscape provides a challenging but rewarding stretch of your Hadrian’s Wall walk.
No walk along Hadrian’s Wall would be complete without visiting one of its milecastles. Milecastle 39, also known as Castle Nick, is one of the best-preserved examples. These small forts were positioned at mile intervals along Hadrian’s Wall, and exploring one gives you a sense of the wall’s impressive defensive system. The views from this elevated position are simply stunning.
Conclude your Hadrian’s Wall walk at Carlisle Castle, a medieval fortress built with stones from Hadrian’s Wall. While not part of the original Roman construction, this castle played a crucial role in England’s turbulent border history. It’s a fitting end to your Hadrian’s Wall walk, linking the Roman past with medieval times.
Walking Hadrian’s Wall is more than just a hike – it’s a journey through nearly 2,000 years of history. As you walk Hadrian’s Wall, you’ll not only experience breathtaking landscapes but also gain a deeper appreciation for the engineering prowess and military might of the Roman Empire.
Whether you choose to walk Hadrian’s Wall in its entirety or focus on specific sections, these 10 sites offer a comprehensive overview of this UNESCO World Heritage site. Each step of your Hadrian’s Wall walk will transport you back in time, allowing you to walk in the footsteps of Roman soldiers, Celtic tribespeople, and countless others who have traversed this ancient frontier.
Remember, as you walk Hadrian’s Wall, you’re not just covering miles – you’re crossing centuries. The wall has stood as a testament to human ambition and skill for nearly two millennia, and your Hadrian’s Wall walk connects you to this incredible legacy. So, lace up those boots, pack your camera, and prepare for an unforgettable journey along one of Britain’s most remarkable ancient monuments. Your Hadrian’s Wall walk awaits!
