Remembering Sycamore Gap
Sycamore Gap tree once stood along the rugged and historic Hadrian’s Wall walking route. In 2023 this iconic landmark was sadly felled by an act of vandalism.
Although the tree no longer stands, locals and visitors from near and far will remember the famous Sycamore Gap.
Known to some as the Robin Hood Tree, Sycamore Gap featured in the 1991 blockbuster film 'Robin Hood Prince of Thieves' starring film stars Kevin Costner and Morgan Freeman. Follow in their footsteps along Hadrian’s Wall and relive those early scenes of adventure as they return to the promised land to battle the evil Sheriff of Nottingham.
Although Sycamore Gap is no longer standing, the 3 mile circular walk along Hadrian’s Wall towards Housesteads Roman Fort, is the perfect circular route for getting back to your car, as you end up back where you started after passing striking National Park viewpoints. Setting off from either The Sill: National Landscape Discovery Centre or Steel Rigg Car Park, the trail truly gets your heart racing with a steep, uphill ascent towards Housesteads Roman Fort, before heading back down towards your car and a well earned picnic.
Hiking along Hadrian’s Wall you can discover ancient history alongside breath-taking views. Hadrian’s Wall is home to a whole host of historic roman forts, including Housesteads, Chesters and Birdoswald Roman Fort.
For a slightly longer circular walk (5 miles) you can begin at Housesteads Roman Fort. From the fort you join the Hadrian’s Wall Path heading west. The path back follows the route of the Roman Military Way taking you right into the heart of Hadrian’s Wall.
If you want to explore a little further, there are a number of ways to extend this route and explore more of Northumberland National Park. If you are feeling energetic then continue to Crag Lough and Greenlee Lough then back to your car on this 8 mile circular walking route.
If you have time, head into The Sill to see fascinating exhibitions. Head upstairs for a frothy coffee with a view, as the centre’s cafe boasts panoramic views over the National Park.