Walk Hadrian’s Wall Highlights

Spanning coast to coast across the north of England, Hadrian’s Wall is a spectacle of emperor Hadrian’s reign in the once-Roman province of Britannia. These days, the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Wall and nearby ruins provide the trail for a seven-day exploration of pre-British history on two feet. Walking from the western outpost of Carlisle to the eastern reaches of Port Gate near Newcastle upon Tyne, you’ll spend a week following one of the richest examples of Roman history in the United Kingdom. Stop in traditional English villages, discover the well-preserved sections of the Wall and explore the surrounding countryside on a walking trip full of history and rolling landscapes.

Itinerary

Day 1: Walk Carlisle to Irthington

Welcome to the English countryside! Today, you’ll meet your leader and fellow travellers in front of the entrance to Carlisle train station at 10 am. Carlisle is a historic city dating back over 2000 years. With its renowned castle and the Tullie Museum, you might like to spend a night or two here before your trip to get a real feel for the place. After a quick welcome meeting, begin your walk out of town, following the River Eden on your way to the charming village of Crosby-on-Eden. Following the course of Hadrian’s Wall through sweeping fields and old bridleways, you'll soon arrive in Irthington. From here, take a short transfer to Haltwhistle – your base for the next three nights.

Day 2: Walk Lanercost Priory to Gilsland

After a short transfer back to the trail this morning, you’ll begin your walk at Lanercost Priory – once England’s capital. Continue to Birdoswald Roman Fort, where there will be time for an optional visit to the historic structure that was inhabited for over 2000 years. This spot showcases many of the Wall’s defining features. Overlooking the River Irthing Gorge, this section of Hadrian’s Wall is the longest-spanning stretch and one of the most well-preserved. After spending some time with your group, walk to Gilsland, where you'll then return to your overnight accommodation in Haltwhistle.

Day 3: Walk Carvoran to Twice Brewed

After a short transfer this morning, you’ll start the day with a visit to the splendid Roman Army Museum – with imaginative displays and 3D films, this museum provides a wealth of insight into Roman military life. Walk along one of the most spectacular stretches of the wall as it follows the craggy Whin Sill ridge. This route will involve some steep ascents and descents to reach the highest point on the wall. Head downhill for a welcome refreshment at the historic Twice Brewed Inn, where you can sample beers from their on-site brewery. After, hop on the AD122 bus for the short ride back to Haltwhistle.

Day 4: Walk Steel Rigg to Sewing Shields

Start the day with a short ride to Vindolana. Formerly a key military post on the northern frontier of Britain, this is the home of Britain's 'Top Treasure' – the Vindolanda Writing Tablets. This fort is also one of Europe's most important Roman archaeological sites and live excavations take place every year. Spend a few hours exploring the well-preserved fort and visit the onsite Museum – a treasure trove of antique items, including Roman shoes, boxing gloves and letters. You’ll then rejoin Hadrian’s Wall at Steel Rigg to start today’s hike. Begin with a steep climb on one of Northumberland’s most spectacular crags. Rest briefly from the challenging, hilly terrain at the well-preserved Housestead’s Roman Fort. This afternoon, you’ll finish your walk at Sewing Shields, where you’ll learn about the Arthurian legend. Tonight, take a short transfer to your accommodation in Hexham.

Day 5: Walk Chollerford to Port Gate

After breakfast today, take a short ride to the outskirts of Chollerford. While you’re here, you can visit Chester’s Roman Fort and Museum to discover the history of the archaeologists responsible for the preservation of Hadrian’s Wall. If you like, you can explore the remarkably intact bathhouse that sits beside the sparkling South Tyne River. Learn the history of the nearby Heavenfield Battle Site, where the church of St Oswald’s commemorates the famous victory of Oswald (the High King of Northumbria) in AD 634. Your walk today will take you through the countryside to Port Gate. When you arrive, enjoy some refreshments from the Errington Coffee House before transferring to nearby Hexham.

Day 6: Walk Corbridge to Hexham

Take a short transfer to the picturesque village of Corbridge, where you can explore the many ancient sites at your own pace. In your free time, you might like to wander around the shops or take an optional trip to Corbridge Roman Town and Museum – once the nerve centre of Roman operations in northern England and the Empire’s most northerly town. Walk back to Hexham through the lush Tynedale countryside this afternoon and maybe celebrate the last night of the trip with a final group dinner.

Day 7: Hexham

With no activities planned today, your trip comes to an end and you’re free to leave at any time. The town of Hexham is only a short distance by rail or bus from Newcastle upon Tyne, where rail and air connections are available to take you throughout the United Kingdom and beyond. If you need help organising extra accommodation, get in touch with your booking agent ahead of time.

Departure Dates