The significant stretch of stones
Diving and delving across Northumberland, Hadrian’s Wall is the most significant pile of stones in the UK. Spanning 73 miles of northern England, Northumberland holds the longest stretch of it and it rises and plunges across some of the county’s most staggering landscapes.
Built under the orders of Emperor Hadrian in AD122, the UNESCO World Heritage Site inspired George RR Martin’s wall in his bestselling books and TV phenomenon Game of Thrones. Take a themed tour along the archaeological wonder, or Live Like a Roman with an immersive experience day.
Scattered along the length of the wall are Roman Forts, excavation sites, ancient temples and Bath Houses that sit before a backdrop of sweeping National Park landscapes, blazing sunsets and rugged hills. Every summer, you can watch live excavations take place at Vindolanda, where 5th century gaming boards, jewellery and other pieces are revealed by skilled archaeologists. Housesteads Roman Fort takes you back to the Roman Empire where you can wander the barrack blocks and admire the dramatic landscape of the ancient fortress along Hadrian's Wall.
Bike, hike, wander or tour the roman wall with one of the many ways to explore. The Hadrian’s Wall Path National Trail, circular walking routes and Hadrian’s Cycleway can all be ventured into for anyone wanting an active pursuit of the wall. Don't miss Sycamore Gap on your trek, known to some as Robin Hood Tree after featuring in the 1991 blockbuster film 'Robin Hood Prince of Thieves' starring Kevin Costner and Morgan Freeman.