Hadrian's Wall: history, sites to see and hiking

Le Hadrian's Wall It stretches across the north of England from one sea to the other, covering approximately 117 kilometers. Built by the Romans nearly 1,900 years ago, it remains the largest surviving Roman Empire site in the UK. We've been organizing trips to the region since 2012: here's its history, the must-see sights, and our tips for exploring it, whether on foot or by car.

In short: Hadrian's Wall, built from 122 AD onwards, stretches across northern England for approximately 117 km. Must-see sites include Housesteads, Vindolanda, Chesters, and the central section between Steel Rigg and Crag Lough. Hiking: The Hadrian's Wall Path is 135 km long and takes six or seven days to complete. Tip: Allow at least two days, from April to October, using Hexham or Haltwhistle as your base.

The story of Hadrian's Wall

In 122 AD, Emperor Hadrian visited the province of Britain and ordered the construction of a fortified border. The wall thus connected Wallsend, on the Tyne, to Bowness-on-Solway in the west. It measured approximately 80 Roman miles, or roughly 117 kilometers.

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The wall was more than just a barrier. Forts, small forts placed every mile, and watchtowers primarily served to control passages, collect taxes, and monitor the northern populations. Furthermore, thousands of soldiers from across the Empire lived there.

Since 1987, the wall has been listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It is notably part of the "Frontiers of the Roman Empire" property, along with the Antonine Wall in Scotland.

Does Hadrian's Wall mark the border with Scotland?

No, that's a misconception. The wall is entirely in England, south of the current border, especially in its eastern section. Furthermore, the Romans built the Antonine Wall further north, around 142 AD, between the estuaries of the Forth and the Clyde. However, it was abandoned after about twenty years.

Must-see sites along the wall

Housesteads Roman Fort

Perched on a ridge, Housesteads is the most complete Roman fort in Britain. It includes barracks, headquarters, a hospital, and even latrines. The site is managed by English Heritage, which publishes the schedules and prices.

Vindolanda

Just south of the wall, Vindolanda is an active archaeological site. Its museum displays, among other things, the famous Vindolanda Tablets, letters written on wood by soldiers and their families. One of them is an invitation to a birthday party, written by an officer's wife.

Chesters Roman Fort

Located on the banks of the North Tyne, Chesters was home to a cavalry garrison. Its baths, among the best preserved in the country, allow us to imagine the daily life of the soldiers.

Steel Rigg, Crag Lough and Sycamore Gap

This is arguably the most spectacular section of the wall, following the cliffs of the Whin Sill above a small lake. The famous sycamore tree at Sycamore Gap was illegally felled in September 2023. The landscape, however, remains one of the most photographed in England.

Birdoswald and Segedunum

To the west, Birdoswald preserves a long section of the wall and offers a beautiful view over the Irthing valley. To the east, Segedunum, in Wallsend, marks the beginning of the wall and features a lookout tower overlooking the fort.

Hiking along Hadrian's Wall

The Hadrian's Wall Path follows the wall for 135 kilometers, from Wallsend to Bowness-on-Solway. Hikers typically complete it in six or seven days, with stages of 15 to 25 kilometers. Furthermore, trail markings and practical information are available on the website of the National Trails.

If you're short on time, the central section, between Chollerford and Birdoswald, offers the most beautiful scenery. In any case, never walk on the wall itself: it's fragile and protected.

Our tips for visiting Hadrian's Wall

• The best time to visit is from April to October, when the days are long and all the sites are open.
• Allow at least two days to see Housesteads, Vindolanda and the central section without rushing.
• Stay in Hexham, Haltwhistle or a village in the Tyne Valley.
• From Newcastle or Carlisle, the Tyne Valley train line serves Hexham and Haltwhistle.
• Finally, bring good shoes and a windbreaker, as the ridge is very exposed.

Combine Hadrian's Wall with Edinburgh or York

The wall is located roughly halfway between York and Edinburgh, making it an easy addition to a trip between England and Scotland. From Edinburgh, it's about a two-and-a-half-hour drive to the center of the wall. Find our suggested itineraries in our guide to learn more. What to do in Edinburgh.

To the south, for example, York and its Roman walls continue the theme. To plan a complete itinerary, also consult our must-sees of England from north to south.

Also read: Lake District: what to see, hikes and tips.

Hadrian's Wall is one of the highlights of our itinerary in the northern England.

Also read: What to see in Yorkshire

Frequently asked questions about Hadrian's Wall

How long does it take to visit Hadrian's Wall?

First, a day is enough to see one or two forts. For the main sites, allow two days, and six or seven days for the complete hike.

Where can I see the most beautiful part of Hadrian's Wall?

The central section, between Housesteads and Steel Rigg, offers the most spectacular scenery, with the wall following the cliffs above Crag Lough.

Is it possible to visit Hadrian's Wall without a car?

Yes. Indeed, the Tyne Valley train serves Hexham and Haltwhistle, and a seasonal bus service connects the main sites in summer.

Is Hadrian's Wall free?

Yes, the wall and the path are free to access. However, the forts and museums, such as Housesteads or Vindolanda, require an entrance fee.

Discover Hadrian's Wall with Brightside Travel

Our team also organizes trips to the north of England all year round. We offer, in particular, a trip to Hadrian's Wall and one trek along Hadrian's Wall, adaptable to your dates, or a tailor-made trip to England.

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