Northumberland is Hadrian’s Wall country.
After nearly 2000 years, this ancient wall remains the iconic symbol of our border land. Stretching 73 miles, coast to coast, from east to west it once maintained the northernmost border of the Roman Empire. Today, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, its forts, garrisons and towns offer a unique insight into life on the wall.
But for many, Hadrian’s Wall is best explored on foot. Walking trails follow routes once marched by legionnaires, taking in dramatic scenery and miles of history waiting to be discovered.
And with Chesters Stables as your base, you’re perfectly placed to step out and explore some of Northumberland’s most spectacular stretches of the Wall before returning to fireside comfort at the end of each day. From challenging hilltop trails and family-friendly walks to Roman forts and museums, here’s our guide to making the most of Hadrian’s Wall.
Hilltop Trails & Wild Adventures
Feeling bold of step and sturdy of boot? These trails take in the steeper climbs and more challenging terrain of Hadrian’s Wall, the reward is well worth it though. Spectacular views of the valleys below, rolling, reaching and folding into the horizon.
Windshield Crags & Cawfields: This walk comes with several high points, including some of the best-preserved sections of wall as well as spectacular views from its highest point. You’ll climb the ancient whin sill ridge that forms the foundation for Hadrian’s Wall with rock that predates the Romans by 295 million years.
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- Distance: 6.1 miles
- Highest Point: 1076 feet
- Car Park: The Sill National Landscape Discovery Centre
- Find Out More
Cawfields Quarry: A rewarding circular walk with a treasure trove of Roman history and dramatic views of the wall. Start out with a lakeside stroll before climbing up to join Hadrian’s Wall for a route that encompasses Milecastle 42, the earthworks of Vallum and Turret 41a.
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- Distance: 3.6 miles
- Highest Point: 807 feet
- Car Park: Cawfields Quarry Car Park
- Find Out More
Vindolanda: A craggy and circular trail that encompasses the ‘greatest hits’ of Hadrian’s Wall, including the iconic Sycamore Gap site, views across Crag Lough and the fascinating finds of Vindolanda. Take care over the steep rises and falls of this stretch of the wall, and take time to breathe in the views from Highshields Crags which are always spectacular.
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- Distance: 6.1 miles
- Highest Point: 1024 feet
- Car Park: The Sill National Landscape Discovery Centre
- Find Out More
Family Friendly Wall Walks
The magic of Hadrian’s Wall is for everyone. And if you’re looking forward to a family trip to Northumberland, there’s no reason why your little ones shouldn’t get up and onto the wall for a Roman adventure that’s sure to capture their imagination.
Greenlee Lough: Set in the shadow of Hadrian’s Wall, Greenlee Lough is a nature reserve for native, Northumbrian wildlife. Follow the waymarked trail, taking care on the boardwalks, bridges and stiles to explore this natural haven, spot birds and uncover insects. If you can manage it, a dusk walk is the best tim to spot deer.
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- Distance: 3.8 miles
- Highest Point: 899 feet
- Car Park: Steel Rigg Car Park
- Find Out More
Thirlwall Castle: An undemanding walk with bags of character, this short two-mile wander is perfect for smaller adventurers. Explore the ruins of Thirwarl Castle, built with stone from Hadrian’s Wall before joining the Hadrian’s Wall Path for a relaxed afternoon and a picnic if the weather is
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- Distance: 1.8 miles
- Highest Point: 696 feet
- Parking: Greenhead Village
- Find Out More
Steel Rigg & Crag Lough: One of the most beloved walks along the wall, Steel Rigg & Crag Lough is a little bit demanding, but for bigger children or bold walkers it’s worth the effort. Climb the ups and take care over the downs of this undulating section to reach the iconic location of Sycamore Gap – a picture perfect spot for a family walk.
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- Distance: 3.5 miles
- Highest Point: 915 feet
- Parking: Steel Rigg Car Park
- Find Out More
Forts & Museums
For rainy days, rest days, or just the chance to delve a little deeper into the Roman history of Northumberland.
- Vindolanda: Once a large garrison base and now an active archaeology site and museum, Vindolanda offers a full and fascinating day for the whole family. Home to the famous Vindolanda Writing Tablets, Vindolanda Fort and Museum uses real artefacts and interactive displays to take you back to everyday life in Roman Britain while the Roman Army Museum puts you on the front line as a soldier stationed on Hadrian’s Wall. Find out more
- Chesters Roman Fort: Just a few steps from your Stable Suite, the best-preserved Roman cavalry fort is waiting to be discovered. Chesters Roman Fort was once home to 500 of Rome’s elite cavalry forces. Today, a fun family trail invites you to saddle up and explore the fort, including following a trail of rubbing stones hidden in the buildings and bathhouse. Find out more
- Housesteads: The gateway to some of the most spectacular stretches of the Wall, Housesteads is Britain’s most complete Roman fort. An interactive exhibition invites you to experience how soldiers and their families lived on this wild frontier including an opportunity to meet Felix, the Roman soldier. Find out more
Useful Information
Ancient, wild and truly wonderful – Hadrian’s Wall encompasses valleys, rolling moorland and working farmland – with changing weather that can catch you out if you’re not properly prepared. Stay safe and dry with our top tips and essential information.
- Walking With Dogs: Walks along Hadrian’s Wall are wonderful on four legs as well as two – but there are a few important rules to follow to make sure everyone stays safe. Hadrian’s wall is a living landscape, including grazing land, so you must keep dogs on a fixed lead at all times near livestock.
- Public Transport: Museums, visitor centres and public car parks mean you can pile into the car and set off for a day on the wall with ease. But there are also public transport options, including the dedicated AD122 bus service which follows a route along the wall, stopping at popular forts, sites and walking trails. Find out more here.
- Essential Equipment: With craggy ascents and descents, a stout pair of walking boots with good ankle support is vital. Weather on the wall can be changeable, so layers are useful, with a good weatherproof jacket to keep the wind and rain off. For more advice on what to bring, click here.
Whether you’re ready for an adventure on the wildest sections of the wall, or want to uncover history and enjoy family-friends walks – Chesters Stables offers an ideal base. Just minutes from the wall, you can go from rugged trails to roll top baths and fireside comfort in a matter of minutes. And with pet-friendly options and suites for up to 8 people – there’s space for everyone to explore and discover Hadrian’s Wall together.
