Hadrian's Wall

A UNESCO World Heritage Site stretching 73 miles across northern England, built by the Romans in 122 AD to defend their empire. Walking sections of the wall offers stunning countryside views and fascinating insight into Roman Britain, with excellent visitor centres at key points.

Things to do

• Walk the Hadrian's Wall Path — Trek the full 84-mile National Trail that follows the wall from coast to coast, or choose shorter day walks between key forts and visitor centres.
• Visit Vindolanda Fort — Explore one of the best-preserved Roman forts with extensive ruins, a museum displaying artifacts and the famous writing tablets that reveal daily Roman life.
• Explore Housesteads Roman Fort — Climb to this dramatic hilltop fort with panoramic views across the Northumberland landscape and see the remarkably intact fort layout and latrines.
• Tour the Roman Army Museum at Greenhead — Learn about the soldiers who built and defended the wall through interactive displays, weapons exhibits, and 3D reconstructions of Roman military life.
• Visit Chester's Fort and Bathhouse — Discover the cavalry fort and its adjacent Roman bathhouse with hypocaust heating systems still visible along the North Tyne River.
• Climb Sewingshields Crag — Walk to this dramatic section of the wall perched on a rocky escarpment for striking views and a sense of the wall's imposing defensive position.
• Explore the Wall at Birdoswald — Visit this English Heritage site featuring a well-preserved fort, ongoing archaeological digs, and a riverside walk along the Irthing.

Food to try

• Newcastle Brown Ale — Sample this iconic local brown ale brewed in nearby Newcastle, a traditional pairing with hearty pub meals throughout the region.
• Northumbrian Lamb — Enjoy slow-cooked lamb dishes featuring meat from the moorland flocks that graze near the wall, a staple of local restaurant menus.
• Stottie Cake with Steak — Try this thick, soft Newcastle bread filled with local beef steak and onions, a beloved working lunch traditionally eaten by labourers.
• Craster Kippers — Sample smoked herrings from the nearby Craster fishing village, traditionally prepared and served for breakfast or as a light lunch.
• Cullercoats Crab — Taste fresh locally-caught crab from the Northumbrian coast, typically served simply with crusty bread and local butter in waterside pubs.
• Pan Haggerty — Order this traditional Northumbrian potato and cheese layered bake, often served as a warming side dish or vegetarian main course.

Local customs & good to know

• Wear waterproof gear year-round — The wall sits on exposed moorland with unpredictable weather; rain and wind are common even in summer, so proper outdoor clothing is essential.
• Book accommodation ahead in small villages — Towns near the wall like Haltwhistle and Corbridge fill quickly with walkers; booking lodging and restaurants in advance is strongly recommended.
• Start early for popular sections — Sections near major forts like Housesteads attract crowds; arriving before 10am ensures parking and a less crowded experience.
• Respect archaeological sites — Stay on marked paths at Roman forts and avoid touching stones or removing artifacts, as the wall is a protected UNESCO World Heritage Site.