I’ll admit we made a few mistakes when we walked Hadrian’s Wall in June 2024, and some of them made our journey harder than it needed to be. It was our first long-distance walk, and while we absolutely loved the experience, we also learned a few lessons along the way.
If you want to take on this 84-mile-long challenge, a little preparation can make a big difference. In this post, we are breaking down the biggest mistakes hikers make with Hadrian’s Wall and how to avoid them so you can have a smoother, more enjoyable experience.
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Contents
Planning & Preparation Mistakes
A successful walk along Hadrian’s Wall starts long before you take your first step on the trail. Good planning can make the difference between an enjoyable experience and a stressful one. To set yourself up for success, avoid these common mistakes before you even start walking.
1. Not Planning Accommodation in Advance
The Hadrian’s Wall Path passes through many small villages and remote areas where lodging options are limited. Popular accommodations fill up quickly, especially in peak season, and waiting until the last minute to book can leave you scrambling for a place to stay.
Do not assume you will be able to find a bed when you arrive. After a long day of walking, the last thing you want is to be searching for a place to stay when you are tired and sore. If you are camping this might not be as big of an issue.
We’ve created the Hadrian’s Wall Accommodation Directory to make it easier to find the best options along the path. You can search for places that are dog-friendly, have private bathrooms, serve food, and more. Get access to it here.
2. Not Booking Meals in Advance
Many pubs and restaurants along the route require reservations, particularly in smaller villages where dining options are limited. Imagine arriving at a pub only to find out they are fully booked or have stopped serving food for the evening. Checking opening times and making reservations ahead of time can save you from having to settle for snacks or go to bed hungry.
3. Walking in Winter
The idea of having the trail to yourself might sound appealing, but winter is not the best time to walk Hadrian’s Wall. The weather can be harsh, with cold temperatures, heavy rain, strong winds, and even snow making the trail difficult and unpleasant.
Many accommodations and restaurants close or have limited hours during the off-season, which can make planning each day much harder. Baggage transfer services, including Hadrian’s Haul, do not operate in winter, meaning you will need to carry all of your gear yourself. The best time to walk is between April and October when the weather is more reliable, and services along the route are fully available.
4. Skipping Proper Training
Walking Hadrian’s Wall is not just a series of short strolls. It is an 84-mile journey that requires stamina and endurance. Many walkers underestimate how tiring it can be to cover long distances for multiple days in a row, especially on uneven ground.
The central section of the trail is particularly challenging, with steep ascents and descents that can take a toll on your legs. Without proper training, fatigue and soreness can set in quickly, making the walk far less enjoyable. Training in the months leading up to your trip by taking long walks on varied terrain will help prepare your body for the demands of the trail.
Not sure how to train for a long-distance walk? Our step-by-step training plan will help you build endurance and confidence so you can walk Hadrian’s Wall in seven days. Find out more about it here.
RELATED READ: Your Hadrian’s Wall Walk Questions Answered
Gear & Packing Mistakes
Having the right gear can make all the difference when walking Hadrian’s Wall. The right clothing, footwear, and essentials will keep you comfortable and help prevent common issues. To make sure you are properly prepared, avoid these common packing mistakes.
For more details on what to bring, check out our blog post on what to pack for Hadrian’s Wall.
5. Not Breaking in Your Boots
Wearing brand-new boots on a long-distance walk is a guaranteed way to get blisters and sore feet. Even the best hiking boots need time to soften and mold to your feet. Breaking them in by taking multiple long walks before your trip will help you avoid painful hotspots and discomfort. If possible, test them on uneven terrain similar to what you will experience on Hadrian’s Wall.
It is also a good idea to have a backup pair of shoes in case your boots cause unexpected issues or get soaked in bad weather.
6. Not Carrying Rain Gear
No matter what time of year you walk Hadrian’s Wall, rain is always a possibility. The weather can change quickly, and getting caught in a downpour without proper rain gear can make for a miserable day. A waterproof jacket and pants are essential to staying dry, but you should also consider bringing a poncho and a backpack cover to protect your gear. Even if the forecast looks clear, carrying lightweight rain protection ensures you are ready for anything.
7. Not Using Blister Prevention Products
Even with well-broken-in boots, blisters can still happen when walking long distances day after day. Preventing them before they start is much easier than dealing with them once they form. Products like Compeed, moleskin, and anti-blister balm can help reduce friction and protect your feet. Applying these to problem areas before you start walking can save you a lot of pain later on.
8. Not Carrying Enough Water
Some sections of the trail, particularly in the central and more remote areas, have very few places to refill your water bottle. Running out of water on a long, hot walking day can leave you feeling exhausted and dehydrated.
Carrying at least two liters of water each day ensures you have enough to stay hydrated, especially in warmer weather. A hydration bladder or lightweight water bottles can make it easier to manage your supply.
While Hadrian’s Wall Path is well-marked, signs can sometimes be missed. Having a backup navigation option is important to make sure you stay on track. The hand-drawn maps in the Trailblazer guidebook are a great resource, as it includes detailed landmarks and practical walking notes. Using Google Maps on your phone can also be helpful, particularly for finding accommodations, restaurants, and transport options along the route. Having both a physical and digital navigation tool will help you stay on track.
RELATED READ: 5 Reasons We Choose to Walk Hadrian’s Wall East to West
On-the-Trail Mistakes
Even with good planning and the right gear, what you do each day on the trail can make or break your experience. Small mistakes can add up, leading to unnecessary fatigue, discomfort, or missed opportunities along the way. Here are some common mistakes to avoid while on the trail.
10. Skipping Breakfast
Walking for hours on an empty stomach is a quick way to run out of energy. A good breakfast sets you up for the day and helps you maintain a steady pace without feeling fatigued too soon. Many accommodations along the trail offer a full breakfast included with your stay, so take advantage of it before setting out.
Most days we ate such a hearty breakfast we were barely hungry for lunch. If you are staying somewhere that does not provide breakfast, plan ahead by picking up food the night before so you are not starting your walk hungry.
11. Not Using a Baggage Transfer Service
Carrying all your luggage for 84 miles can take a toll, especially when walking multiple days in a row up and down the crags. The extra weight can slow you down, increase fatigue, and make steep sections much harder.
Services like Hadrian’s Haul allow you to walk with just a day pack while your main bag is transported to your next accommodation. This makes the walk more enjoyable and reduces strain on your body, especially if you are not used to carrying a heavy load.
12. Not Bringing Cash
While some places along the trail accept card payments, others do not. Small pubs, B&Bs, cafés, and taxis may only take cash, and ATM access is limited in rural areas. Carrying some cash ensures you can pay for food, drinks, and transport without any hassle. It is also useful in case of emergencies when card machines or mobile payment services are unavailable.
13. Not Taking a Rest Day
Walking for a full week without a break can lead to exhaustion, especially if you are not used to long-distance hiking. Planning at least one rest day gives your body time to recover and allows you to explore without the pressure of reaching your next destination.
We took a rest day and visited Vindolanda, one of the best-preserved Roman sites along the Wall. It was one of the most memorable days of our trip, giving us time to recover while exploring an incredible piece of history. Choosing a rest stop in an interesting location can make the break feel like a highlight of your trip rather than just a recovery day.
TIP: If you plan on going to Vindolanda, buy your ticket online in advance here to save.
If you are still figuring out how to divide your days along the trail, we have put together detailed 7-day walking itineraries to help you plan your route. Find them here.
14. Rushing and Skipping Historic Sites
Many walkers underestimate how much time they will want to explore Hadrian’s Wall’s historic sites. Rushing through the walk without stopping to visit forts, museums, and viewpoints means missing out on what makes this route special.
Many key sites, like Housesteads, Chesters, and Birdoswald, require a bit of extra time to explore properly. Consider getting an English Heritage membership or an Overseas Visitor Pass for free access to many of the sites along the trail. Taking your time to appreciate the history and scenery will make your journey much more rewarding.
Even with the rest day, I felt like we didn’t have enough time to see some of the sites, so we opted to return and did a day trip to Hadrian’s Wall from Newcastle.
15. Forgetting to Take Photos
It is easy to get caught up in the rhythm of walking and forget to document the journey. The landscapes, Roman ruins, and small villages along the way make for some incredible photo opportunities. Don’t feel like you need to bring a fancy camera, we took all our photos on our smartphones.
Be sure to take a photo at the beginning and end of Hadrian’s Wall Path to mark your achievement. We also enjoyed taking selfies with the trig points along the route. One of the most famous photo spots was Sycamore Gap, which sadly no longer stands but remains an important part of the trail’s history.
While it is important to stay present and enjoy the experience, taking a few moments to capture the views, milestones, and memories will give you something to look back on long after the walk is over.
How to Have the Best Experience Walking Hadrian’s Wall Path
Hadrian’s Wall Path is a challenging but rewarding walk, offering a mix of history, beautiful landscapes, and a true long-distance hiking experience. It’s full of unexpected lessons and moments you won’t find in guidebooks. We share some of our most surprising insights from the walk in this post.
A little preparation goes a long way in making the journey smoother and more enjoyable. By planning ahead, packing smart, and pacing yourself along the trail, you will set yourself up for success.
For more advice on getting the most out of your walk, check out our blog post on essential tips for walking Hadrian’s Wall. You can also join our Hadrian’s Wall First Time Walkers Facebook group to connect with other hikers, ask questions, and share your experiences.
With the right approach, walking Hadrian’s Wall Path can be an unforgettable adventure. Take your time, enjoy the history, and make the most of every step.
Last Updated on March 13, 2025