Best of Hadrian's Wall Guided Trail

Lanercost Priory

The priory was built in 1166 from sandstone taken from Hadrian’s Wall. The Priory ruins are owned by English Heritage and there is a very good audio commentary that visitors can hire.

Birdoswald Roman Fort

During Roman times Birdoswald Roman Fort was home to over 1,000 soldiers. Nowadays archaeologists live and work here. There is an interactive visitor centre which provides a good introduction to the history of Hadrian’s Wall, and includes life-size models of Romans as well as scale models of the fort and the wall.

Thirlwall Castle

Built in the 14th century by John Thirlwall, to protect his family from the violent cross-border raids between England and Scotland, today only the ruin of the castle remains. Nevertheless this is still an impressive sight.

Roman Army Museum

The highlight of the Roman Army Museum is the superb Eagle’s Eye Film. The film allows visitors to view the wall from above, and these images are combined with excellent computer animations, which bring the site back to life. The museum also has numerous exhibits focusing on the life of a Roman soldier, with examples of uniforms and weapons.

Housesteads Roman Fort

Housesteads Roman Fort is an impressive site, spanning over five acres. Visitors can discover the remains of many buildings, including examples of underfloor heating and latrines. There is also an on-site museum.

Vindolanda Roman Fort

As well as the impressive remains of the Roman Fort at Vindolanda, you can also explore the relaxing gardens, and visit reconstructed homes of various Roman citizens, whilst listening to stories about their lives. There is an excellent museum with fascinating finds such as Roman textiles, locks and keys, horses, ceremonial facemasks and ladies wigs.

Chesters Walled Garden

Chesters Walled Garden covers over two acres and is home to one of the largest collections of herbs in Britain.

Chesters Roman Fort

Owned by English Heritage, Chesters is the site of a Roman cavalry fort, and visitors can explore the remains of the Roman baths on the banks of the River Tyne, as well as discovering excellent examples of Roman sculpture.

Aydon Castle

This 13th century castle is owned by English Heritage and is a beautiful example of an English fortified manor house. This was the setting for the film Ivanhoe.

Corbridge Roman Site

Corbridge Roman Site is owned by English Heritage. Visitors can discover excellent remains of military granaries and other finds from the site.