Hadrian's Wall Highlights: Scenic Guided Walk with Local Guide

What's Included

Meeting and pickup

Itinerary

• 1
  The Sill: National Landscape Discovery Centre

  Your guide will meet you at The Sill at 10:00 am. As The Sill also opens at 10:00 am, you'll have time to use the facilities before we catch the 10:12 am AD122 bus to Housesteads. Any extra luggage or clothing can be securely stored in a locked vehicle during the walk. Please wear suitable footwear, such as hiking boots, walking shoes or trail shoes. Trainers are usually fine in dry conditions, but if the ground is wet, some sections can be slippery. Hadrian's Wall has its own microclimate, so we recommend dressing in layers and bringing a waterproof jacket, as it can be breezy on the Wall. Well-behaved dogs are very welcome but must be kept on a lead at all times. If you arrive after 10:10 am, you can still catch the 10:17 am AD122 bus from its second stop. If you miss that bus, you can meet us at Housesteads Visitor Centre car park by 10:25 am, where we'll join you before setting off.

  15 minutes • Admission ticket free
• Vindolanda (Pass by)

  At The Sill, we'll board the 10:12 am AD122 bus to Housesteads. The journey offers a unique perspective of Hadrian's Wall, with elevated views across the surrounding countryside and Roman landscape. Along the way, your guide will point out and share fascinating stories about key landmarks, including the ancient Stanegate Road, rare in-situ Roman milestones, the hidden remains at Causeway House, Vindolanda Roman Fort, and the dramatic Great Whin Sill. It's the perfect introduction to the area's rich Roman heritage before arriving at Housesteads to begin your walk. Please note: We remain on the bus throughout the journey and do not alight at Vindolanda.

  Admission ticket free
• Housesteads Roman Fort - Hadrian's Wall (Pass by)

  Upon arriving at Housesteads, we'll leave the bus and take a short walk to the fort. There will be time to purchase a drink from the coffee van (when available) or browse the museum shop before we begin. Together, we'll explore the fascinating history of Housesteads Roman Fort, discover the story behind the best-preserved Roman toilets in Britain, and uncover the mystery of the so-called "Murder House." Please note: This tour explores the exterior of the fort and its surroundings only. We do not enter Housesteads Roman Fort.

  Admission ticket free
• 2
  Hadrian's Wall

  From Housesteads, we'll follow the Hadrian's Wall Path back to The Sill. Along the way, you'll have the rare opportunity to walk on top of Hadrian's Wall – the only section where this is permitted. We'll explore the impressive remains of Milecastle 37, including its well-preserved gateway and the foundations of a Roman barrack block, before continuing along the Wall with spectacular views from Housesteads Crags and Highshield Crags. We'll also cross the Pennine Way, Britain's oldest National Trail, as we follow one of the most dramatic stretches of Hadrian's Wall.

  2 hours • Admission ticket free
• 3
  Sycamore Gap

  Before reaching the site of Sycamore Gap, we'll cross the Pennine Way, Britain's oldest National Trail and home to the legendary Spine Race, one of the world's toughest ultramarathons, held each winter and summer. We'll then visit the site where the iconic Sycamore Gap tree once stood, reflecting on its remarkable legacy and the hope for its future as new shoots continue to grow from the stump. Continuing along Hadrian's Wall, we'll explore Milecastle 39, one of the best-preserved milecastles on the frontier, before searching for a fascinating and often-overlooked Roman carving hidden within the landscape. Finally, we'll descend the Peel Gap Stairs to visit Peel Gap Tower, also known as the "unmarked turret", bringing our journey through one of the Wall's most spectacular sections to a memorable close.

  30 minutes • Admission ticket free
• 4
  The Sill: National Landscape Discovery Centre

  We'll stroll past Steel Rigg Car Park, often described as Britain's most scenic car park, as we enjoy a leisurely walk back to The Sill. On arrival, you'll have the rare opportunity to handle an authentic Roman artefact and discover the stories behind these remarkable pieces of history. You're then welcome to explore everything The Sill has to offer, from its spectacular living roof with panoramic views across the National Park to the interactive exhibitions, rotating gallery, gift shop and cosy café—the perfect way to round off your Hadrian's Wall adventure. After the tour, we'll send you a link to all of your digital photos and videos, along with a personalised highlight reel. You'll also receive a special keepsake to remember your day on Hadrian's Wall.

  30 minutes • Admission ticket free

Additional info

• Service animals allowed
• Public transportation options are available nearby
• Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
• Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness

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