The Roman Wall

Hadrian's Wall

Built along some of this country's most spectacular countryside, Hadrian's famous defensive barrier in the north of England was first built between AD 122 and 128, by order of the emperor. At that time it was only constructed as an earth fortification with wooden parapets, the stone work was constructed later.

Hadrian's Wall is undoubtedly the most impressive surviving frontier of the empire, running for 80 Roman miles from the inlet of the sea known as The Solway Firth in the west of the England to the mouth of the River Tyne in the east.

Since the opening of the Hadrian's Wall Path National Trail, a coast to coast footpath that follows the wall, England's largest World Heritage Site has seen a surge in popularity, and many walkers who walk all or part of the trail are rewarded with the most stunning and breathtaking scenery anywhere.

Spanning 73 miles, the wall has an abundance of historical sites waiting to be explored. Experience the history of this magnificent, ancient monument at forts, milecastles, reconstructions and visitor centres which are spread along its length. In fact the area has more forts and castles than anywhere else in the country.

Why not visit the Roman Forts of: 

Chesters, built to house 500 men, the most complete Roman Cavalry Fort in Britain.

Housesteads, incorporating part of the Roman Wall, the most complete Roman Fort in Britain.

Vindolanda, a fort and civilian settlement with ongoing excavations in progress.

All of these sites are easily accessible from Greencarts.