Hadrian's Wall

Once patrolled by soldiers from all corners of the Roman Empire, Hadrian's Wall is one of Britain’s greatest monuments.

Built in 122AD, Hadrian’s Wall still holds its head high as the largest free-standing structure in Britain. Originally 80 Roman miles (about 73 modern miles) long and up to 20 feet high, it has weathered almost 2000 years of Border battles and awestruck visitors to become a truly breathtaking World Heritage Site. You can walk or cycle along its route, from Segedunum on North Tyneside to Bowness on the Solway Firth. You can admire the sweeping views of moorland and pasture that the garrisons sought to keep peaceful and learn about Roman life in forts and museums along its length.

USA Today described Hadrian's Wall as "better than Stonehenge" for its sheer scale and visual impact.

At Steel Rigg, you can see the wall wind its way across the countryside.Cawfields to Walltown Quarry is widely acknowledged to be the most dramatic section of the wall.

If you're walking along the Hadrian's Wall National Trail Path, expect some stunning sights and a friendly welcome at some of the many towns and villages that stand in the swathe of countryside that it dominates. Pubs along Hadrian's Wall are a great place to recharge after an invigorating walk, whilst accommodation in Hadrian's Wall country has everything from budget hostels and campsites to luxury country house hotels.

Don't make the mistake that the wall is just an isolated ruin. The fortification bristles with Roman forts, milecastles and temples as well as archeological sites that are still giving us a valuable insight into how the Romans lived almost 2,000 years ago.

Visit places such as Vindolanda, Housesteads, Chesters or Corbridge any weekend during the summer months and you'll find people re-enacting battles in full costume or explaining how the Romans ate or washed.

Hadrian's Wall is a living, breathing attraction and the impact of the people who built it still resonates across the area today.