Hadrians Wall

Hadrians Wall | Everything You Need to Know

Step back in time at Hadrian’s Wall, a remarkable UNESCO World Heritage Site that stretches 73 miles across northern England. Built in AD 122 under Emperor Hadrian, this iconic Roman fortification marked the northern boundary of the Roman Empire in Britain. With its well-preserved stone walls, ancient forts, and fascinating museums, Hadrian’s Wall offers a captivating journey into Roman history set against the stunning landscapes of Northumberland and Cumbria.

Whether you’re hiking the scenic Hadrian’s Wall Path, exploring artifacts like the Vindolanda tablets, or soaking in panoramic views, this historic site is a must-visit for history buffs, nature lovers, and families alike.

Location

Hadrian’s Wall extends from Wallsend, Newcastle upon Tyne, NE28 7TQ on the River Tyne in the east to Bowness-on-Solway, Cumbria, CA7 5AF on the Solway Firth in the west, covering approximately 73 miles (117 km). It passes through the counties of Northumberland, Tyne and Wear, and Cumbria. Key visitor centers include Housesteads Roman Fort (Bardon Mill, Hexham, NE47 6NN), Vindolanda (Bardon Mill, Hexham, NE47 7JN), Segedunum Roman Fort (Wallsend, NE28 6HR), and the Roman Army Museum (Greenhead, CA8 7JB). Use apps like Google Maps or Citymapper for precise navigation to these sites.

Opening Hours

Hadrian’s Wall itself, as an outdoor site, is accessible 24 hours a day, 7 days a week for walking and viewing. However, specific attractions like forts and museums have set hours, typically from 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM in summer (April–October) and 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM in winter (November–March). For example:

• Housesteads Roman Fort: 10:00 AM–5:00 PM (summer), 10:00 AM–4:00 PM (winter)
• Vindolanda: 10:00 AM–5:00 PM (summer), reduced hours in winter
• Roman Army Museum: 10:00 AM–5:00 PM (summer), closed January–mid-February

Always check the English Heritage or Vindolanda Trust websites for exact hours and any seasonal closures.

How to Get There

Hadrian’s Wall is accessible via multiple transport options, with key sites like Housesteads, Vindolanda, and Segedunum serving as popular starting points:

• By Car: Major sites have parking facilities. From the A69, follow signs to Housesteads (off B6318, 5 miles north of Bardon Mill), Vindolanda, or Segedunum. Parking fees may apply (e.g., £3–£5 at Housesteads).
• By Public Transport: The AD122 Hadrian’s Wall bus connects key sites from Hexham and Haltwhistle train stations, accessible via trains from Newcastle upon Tyne or Carlisle. The bus operates seasonally (April–October), with daily services during peak times. Check Hadrian’s Wall Country for schedules.
• By Train: Hexham (20-minute drive to Housesteads) and Haltwhistle (15-minute drive to Vindolanda) are the closest stations, with connections from major cities like London and Edinburgh.
• By Foot: The Hadrian’s Wall Path, an 84-mile national trail, is ideal for hikers, with shorter sections available near visitor centers.
• By Bicycle: Parts of the wall are accessible via National Cycle Route 72, with bike racks at major sites.

For real-time travel planning, use apps like Citymapper or Google Maps.

Best Time to Visit

The best time to visit Hadrian’s Wall is from late spring to early autumn (May–September), when milder weather and longer daylight hours enhance outdoor exploration. July and August are peak tourist months, so for fewer crowds, opt for May, June, or September. Winter visits (December–February) can be cold and wet, with some sites like the Roman Army Museum closing in January and early February. Special events, such as the Hadrian’s Wall Festival or illumination displays, may occur throughout the year, adding to the experience. Check the Hadrian’s Wall Country events page for updates on 2025 events.

Tickets and Costs

Walking along Hadrian’s Wall and its scenic paths is free, as it’s a public right of way. However, entry to specific forts and museums requires tickets. Prices as of 2025 include:

Attraction	Adult	Child (5-17)	Family (2 adults + up to 3 children)	Concession
Housesteads Roman Fort	£10.50	£6.30	£27.30	£9.50
Vindolanda	£9.00	£5.50	£27.00	£8.00
Roman Army Museum	£7.50	£4.50	£22.50	£6.50
Segedunum Roman Fort	£6.95	Free	N/A	£4.95
Vindolanda + Roman Army Museum	£14.50	£8.00	£42.00	£13.00

• Discounts: English Heritage or National Trust members often get free entry to sites like Housesteads. Concessions are available for students and seniors.
• Booking: Purchase tickets online via English Heritage for Housesteads or Vindolanda Trust for Vindolanda to secure your spot and avoid queues.
• Note: Prices may vary, so check official websites for the latest information.

What to Expect

Hadrian’s Wall offers a rich blend of history and natural beauty across its 73-mile stretch. Visitors can:

• Explore the Wall: See well-preserved sections, milecastles (small forts every mile), and turrets (watchtowers), with iconic spots like Sycamore Gap, famous for its lone tree and cinematic appearances.
• Visit Forts and Museums: Key sites include Housesteads Roman Fort, with its commanding views and ruins; Vindolanda, showcasing the famous Vindolanda tablets (ancient Roman letters); Segedunum Roman Fort, with a reconstructed bathhouse; and the Roman Army Museum, featuring interactive exhibits on Roman military life.
• Enjoy Scenic Walks: The Hadrian’s Wall Path, an 84-mile national trail, offers hikes ranging from short strolls to multi-day treks, passing through Northumberland National Park’s rolling hills.
• Cycle: Parts of the wall align with National Cycle Route 72, ideal for biking enthusiasts.
• Discover Artifacts: Museums display Roman armor, tools, pottery, and writings, offering insights into life 2,000 years ago.

A typical visit to one site, like Housesteads or Vindolanda, takes 1–3 hours, depending on whether you explore the museum, fort, or nearby wall sections. Facilities include visitor centers with restrooms, cafes (e.g., at Vindolanda), and gift shops selling Roman-themed souvenirs. The landscapes, especially in areas like Sycamore Gap, are breathtaking, making it a photographer’s paradise.

Safety and Accessibility

• Safety: Hadrian’s Wall is generally safe for visitors, but as an outdoor site, take precautions:
• Wear sturdy walking shoes for uneven terrain.
• Be prepared for sudden weather changes, including rain and wind.
• Follow safety signs at forts and avoid climbing on the wall to preserve it.
• Carry water and snacks, as facilities are limited in remote areas.
• Accessibility: Some sites, like Housesteads, offer ramps, accessible toilets, and mobility scooters, but uneven terrain and steep paths may pose challenges for wheelchair users or those with mobility issues. For example, the path from Housesteads’ car park to the fort is steep. Vindolanda’s museum is fully accessible, but outdoor areas may be less so. Assistance dogs are welcome. Check English Heritage or Vindolanda Trust for detailed accessibility information.

History and Background

Hadrian’s Wall was commissioned by Emperor Hadrian in AD 122 to mark and defend the northern frontier of Roman Britain. Stretching 73 miles from coast to coast, it was built by approximately 15,000 Roman legionaries over six years, using local limestone. The wall featured forts (e.g., Housesteads, Chesters), milecastles every Roman mile, and turrets for surveillance, manned by around 9,000 soldiers from across the empire. Beyond defense, it controlled trade and movement, with gates for taxation. After the Romans left Britain in the 5th century, parts of the wall were quarried for local buildings, but significant sections remain.

Designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1987, it’s the largest Roman artifact in the world, offering a window into ancient engineering and life. Fun Fact: The Vindolanda tablets, discovered at the site, include personal letters from Roman soldiers, revealing details like birthday invitations and requests for socks.

Nearby Attractions

Hadrian’s Wall is surrounded by attractions that complement a visit:

• Chesters Roman Fort and Museum (20-minute drive from Housesteads): Features a well-preserved bathhouse and Roman artifacts (English Heritage).
• Hexham Abbey (20-minute drive from Housesteads): A 7th-century medieval church with stunning architecture (Hexham Abbey).
• Northumberland National Park (adjacent): Offers hiking, wildlife, and scenic landscapes (Northumberland National Park).
• Lake District National Park (1-hour drive from Bowness-on-Solway): Famous for its lakes and mountains (Lake District).
• Newcastle upon Tyne (30-minute drive from Wallsend): A vibrant city with museums, dining, and nightlife (Visit Newcastle).

Combine a visit to Housesteads with a trip to Hexham Abbey or a hike in Northumberland National Park for a full day of exploration.

Practical Tips

• Wear Sturdy Shoes: Uneven terrain and cobbled paths require comfortable, durable footwear.
• Bring Weather Gear: Pack a raincoat and layers, as northern England’s weather can be unpredictable.
• Carry Supplies: Bring water, snacks, and sun protection, especially for long walks, as facilities are sparse in remote areas.
• Download Maps: Use the Hadrian’s Wall app or pick up guidebooks at visitor centers for navigation.
• Respect the Site: Do not climb on the wall or remove stones to preserve this historic monument.
• Check Mobile Coverage: Signal can be weak in rural areas, so plan routes in advance.
• Book in Advance: Reserve tickets for forts and museums online to avoid disappointment.
• Plan for Events: Check the Hadrian’s Wall Country events page for festivals or special tours in 2025.

FAQs

What are the opening hours of Hadrian’s Wall?

The wall itself is accessible 24/7 as an outdoor site. Museums and forts, like Housesteads and Vindolanda, are typically open from 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM in summer and 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM in winter. Check English Heritage or Vindolanda Trust for exact hours.

How much does it cost to visit Hadrian’s Wall?

Walking the wall is free. Entry to sites like Housesteads (£10.50 adult) or Vindolanda (£9.00 adult) requires tickets, with discounts for English Heritage members.

Is Hadrian’s Wall suitable for children?

Yes, it’s family-friendly with interactive museum exhibits and open spaces for kids to explore, though some terrain may be challenging.

Are there any discounts available for Hadrian’s Wall?

English Heritage or National Trust members get free entry to sites like Housesteads. Concessions are available for students and seniors.

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

A visit to one site, like Housesteads, takes 1–3 hours. Exploring multiple sites or walking sections of the path may take a full day.

Is photography allowed at Hadrian’s Wall?

Yes, photography is encouraged, capturing the wall’s historic ruins and scenic landscapes.

Are there guided tours available at Hadrian’s Wall?

Yes, guided tours are offered at sites like Housesteads and Vindolanda. Check English Heritage or Vindolanda Trust for schedules.

What’s the best way to get to Hadrian’s Wall from the city center?

From Newcastle or Carlisle, take a train to Hexham or Haltwhistle, then the AD122 bus to sites like Housesteads or Vindolanda.

Is Hadrian’s Wall wheelchair accessible?

Some areas, like Vindolanda’s museum, are accessible with ramps and mobility scooters, but uneven terrain may pose challenges. Check site-specific accessibility details.

Are there dining options near Hadrian’s Wall?

Cafes are available at visitor centers like Vindolanda and Housesteads. Nearby towns like Hexham offer additional dining options.