Walking the Hadrian’s Wall Path is like time-traveling back across 2,000 years of history while enjoying rolling countryside, dramatic ridgelines, and charming villages. Stretching 84 miles across northern England, this unforgettable National Trail has a lot to see along the way including Roman forts, medieval castles, historic churches, and more.
If you’re wondering where to stop on your adventure, we’ve narrowed it down to 10 must-visit spots right along the path, plus 4 incredible detours (and one bonus site) worth making time for. Whether you’re walking the full trail or just doing a section, this guide will help you plan an unforgettable time.
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Contents
- Planning Your First Hadrian’s Wall Walk?
- Top 11 Unmissable Spots Along Hadrian’s Wall
- 1. Segedunum Roman Fort – Wallsend
- 2. Chesters Roman Fort – Chollerford
- 3. Temple of Mithras near Brocolitia
- 4. Housesteads Roman Fort
- 5. Sycamore Gap
- 6. Cawfields Quarry
- 7. Thirlwall Castle – Greenhead
- 8. St. Michael’s Church – Burgh-by-Sands
- 9. Milecastle 39 – Castle Nick
- 10. Willowford Bridge Abutment and Irthing Bridge
- 4 Amazing Detours Worth the Extra Miles
- Bonus Stop: Looking for More? Visit Arbeia in South Shields
- Discovering Your Own Highlights Along Hadrian’s Wall
Planning Your First Hadrian’s Wall Walk?
If you’re dreaming about walking Hadrian’s Wall but aren’t sure where to start, you’re not alone and we’re here to help!
Make sure you join the Hadrian’s Wall First-Time Walkers Facebook Group, where you can connect with others, ask questions, and get tips from people who’ve already done the trail. It’s a friendly space for walkers of all ages, fitness levels, and experience.
Also be sure to check out our Accommodation Directory, 7-Day Itineraries, Training Plan, and Hadrian’s Wall walk packing guide—all created with beginners in mind to make your planning as stress-free as possible.
Looking for the best places to stop on your Hadrian’s Wall walk? Here are 10 must-see highlights plus 5 bonus detours that are absolutely worth the extra steps.
Top 11 Unmissable Spots Along Hadrian’s Wall
Narrowing this list down to just the 10 top sites along Hadrian’s Wall was no small feat. I went back and forth on the choices and was tempted to expand the list several times, but I wanted to keep it manageable, especially for first-time walkers.
I’ve aimed to include a diverse mix of locations that showcase the variety you’ll encounter along the trail: Roman forts, temples, castles, churches, natural beauty, and peaceful picnic spots. The list is arranged in the order you’d come across them if you’re walking from east to west.
🔎 Tip: Admission prices and opening hours can change, so it’s always a good idea to check the official websites before your visit.
1. Segedunum Roman Fort – Wallsend
This is where it all begins—or ends—depending on which direction you’re walking. Segedunum marks the eastern end of the Hadrian’s Wall Path and offers a solid introduction (or finale) to the journey. While it may not be the most extensive museum you’ll encounter along the route, it makes up for it with informative exhibits that bring Roman Britain to life and help you understand how the Wall was built.
Be sure to head up the viewing tower for an aerial perspective of the fort’s layout. It’s a fantastic way to visualize what a typical Roman fort looked like. There’s also a reconstructed section of Hadrian’s Wall and the Monument to the Builders, which honors the centurions, commanders whose leadership was essential in constructing the Wall.
Admission: Segedunum is not an English Heritage or National Trust site so there is a charge to visit, but it is free for under 21s and residents with NR28 postcodes.
Get more information on the official website here.
2. Chesters Roman Fort – Chollerford
If you’re interested in Roman military life, Chesters Roman Fort is a must-see. Known to the Romans as Cilurnum, this cavalry fort was built around AD 124 and once housed about 500 soldiers on horseback. It remained active until the Romans left in the 5th century.
The ruins cover a large area and include some fascinating features. Don’t miss the riverside bathhouse, one of the best-preserved in Britain, or the sunken strong room in the headquarters building.
Be sure to allow time to visit the on-site museum, originally established by antiquarian John Clayton. It contains one of the UK’s best collections of Roman artifacts from along Hadrian’s Wall, including inscriptions, sculptures, and household items.
Admission: Free for English Heritage members and Overseas Visitor Pass holders. Standard ticket prices apply for others.
Get more information on the official site here.
3. Temple of Mithras near Brocolitia
Near the unexcavated Roman fort of Brocolitia (Carrawburgh), you’ll come across the remains of a Mithraeum, a small temple dedicated to the mysterious Roman god Mithras. It would have been part of the vicus, the civilian settlement that developed alongside the fort.
Built around AD 200, the temple served a Roman cult where followers took part in symbolic rituals to advance through a spiritual hierarchy. Though now reduced to low stone walls, it was originally designed to resemble a cave, with just one entrance and no windows, evoking the myth of Mithras slaying a sacred bull and feasting with the sun god, Sol. The temple was rebuilt several times before being abandoned around AD 350.
Today, it’s a quiet place with a distinctive atmosphere. There’s no visitor center here, but if you’re lucky, there might be a van in the parking lot by Brocolitia selling coffee and snacks (it wasn’t there when we visited). We decided to enjoy our packed lunch here and it ended up being one of the most unexpectedly peaceful moments of the walk.
Admission: Free to visit.
4. Housesteads Roman Fort
Housesteads is the most complete Roman fort in Britain, and one of the most impressive sites along Hadrian’s Wall. Built soon after construction of the Wall began around AD 122, it was home to an 800-strong infantry regiment and remained in use until the end of Roman rule in Britain.
The ruins are extensive, with clear outlines of barracks, granaries, and one of the best-preserved latrines in the Roman Empire. The surrounding landscape is just as memorable. The fort sits high on the Whin Sill escarpment, offering sweeping views across Northumberland’s rugged countryside. Guided tours are available on most days (included with admission)
There’s a small English Heritage museum on site that also sells snacks and has portable toilets. If you’re after a proper café and facilities, it’s about a 10-minute downhill walk to the National Trust Visitor Centre.
Admission: Free for English Heritage and National Trust members, and English Heritage Overseas Visitor Pass holders. Standard ticket prices apply for others.
Get more information on the official site here.
5. Sycamore Gap
Even without the iconic tree, tragically felled in 2023, Sycamore Gap remains one of the most striking and emotionally resonant spots along Hadrian’s Wall. The lone stump (now behind a protective wooden fence) is showing promising signs of regrowth, and the surrounding landscape still captures the imagination.
The trail to and from Sycamore Gap features some of the steepest and most rugged terrain along the Hadrian’s Wall Path. The tree’s stump sits in a dramatic dip, framed by towering crags and sweeping views that make this one of the most photographed spots on the Wall, and it’s easy to see why.
Keep in mind that there are no facilities at Sycamore Gap, so if you’re planning a picnic or rest stop, be sure to bring everything you need with you.
Admission: Free to visit.
6. Cawfields Quarry
Cawfields is another fantastic photo spot along the trail, with a quiet lake set against the crags and a striking section of Hadrian’s Wall. It gets its name from when it was a working quarry.
It’s a handy place to stop and rest. You’ll find public toilets, and sometimes there’s a coffee van parked up (though it wasn’t there when we visited). During the day, it’s a good place for birdwatching, and at night it’s known for stargazing, thanks to the area’s Dark Sky status. I can just imagine how amazing it would be to see the Northern Lights dancing across the water.
Admission: Free to visit.
7. Thirlwall Castle – Greenhead
Thirlwall Castle is a 12th-century ruin with a fascinating history and a touch of folklore. Built along the banks of the River Tipalt, it was originally constructed as a fortified home for the Thirlwall family. Like many structures in the region, it was strengthened using stones taken from Hadrian’s Wall.
Though the castle was abandoned by the 17th century, much of the outer structure still stands. It’s a short but steep climb from the path, but the chance to explore the crumbling walls and take in the views makes it well worth the effort.
This site is also wrapped in local legend. One tale tells of a baron who returned from war with a golden table guarded by a dwarf, only for it to vanish into a sealed well when raiders overran the castle. Another story speaks of a secret tunnel connecting Thirlwall to Blenkinsopp Castle, and a White Lady ghost who guards her lost treasure beneath the earth.
Admission: Free to visit.
8. St. Michael’s Church – Burgh-by-Sands
This is not your average parish church. Built on the site of the Roman fort Aballava, St. Michael’s is one of the few fortified churches in Cumbria, constructed using stone taken from Hadrian’s Wall. Its thick walls and defensive tower reflect the turbulent history of the borderlands.
The church holds a unique place in national history. In 1307, King Edward I, known as “Hammer of the Scots,” died nearby on Burgh Marsh, while marching north to battle Robert the Bruce. His body was brought to the church to lie in state for ten days before his burial at Westminster Abbey. The Royal Court including the King’s heir, Edward II, came and for a brief moment, this quiet village church became the heart of the country. Even now, it remains a poignant and intriguing place to explore.
Admission: Free to visit.
9. Milecastle 39 – Castle Nick
About every Roman mile along Hadrian’s Wall, a Milecastle was built. These small forts served as checkpoints, each with a gateway through the Wall and barracks for a small garrison of soldiers. Milecastle 39, known as Castle Nick, is one of the best-preserved examples you’ll see on the trail.
Its low stone walls and gateways give you a vivid sense of what frontier life might have felt like for the soldiers stationed here. From the ruins, it’s just a short walk up to Steel Rigg, where you’ll be rewarded with a jaw-dropping view: Castle Nick below you, the Wall snaking over craggy cliffs, and Crag Lough glittering in the distance, all surrounded by the wild hills of Northumberland.
Admission: Free to visit.
10. Willowford Bridge Abutment and Irthing Bridge
This section of the Wall marks an important transition point where the stone Wall, built heading west from Segedunum, met the turf Wall coming east from Bowness-on-Solway. It’s a fascinating area with a lot to see if you know where to look.
You’ll find the remains of the original Roman bridge abutment, which once sat right on the riverbank. Over time, the Irthing River changed course, so today the old abutment sits in open pasture, while a modern steel footbridge crosses the river about 100 meters away. Be sure to check out the information board nearby, which includes illustrations of what the Roman bridge might have looked like. It’s a striking contrast to the modern structure.
Admission: Free to Visit
4 Amazing Detours Worth the Extra Miles
When you’re doing a long-distance walk, it’s totally understandable to hesitate before adding extra miles. You’ve already got plenty on the schedule! When it comes to the Hadrian’s Wall Path, I genuinely believe that skipping all the detours would be a mistake. These four sites may be off the official trail, but they’re absolutely worth going out of your way for.
1. Vindolanda
If you’re going to take one rest day along your walk, make it for Vindolanda. This site is absolutely packed with history, and there’s enough to see here to fill a whole afternoon or more.
You’ll explore excavated Roman ruins, walk along a reconstructed section of wall, and visit a museum full of incredible finds, including the world-famous Vindolanda Tablets. These thin wooden letters, on loan from the British Museum, offer an intimate glimpse into everyday life on the Roman frontier. Think party invitations, supply lists, and gossip between officers’ wives. It’s like reading Roman text messages from 2,000 years ago.
There are also free guided tours offered on select days and if you’re not up for the walk, it ‘s on the AD 122 bus route making it easy to reach from the trail.
Admission: Vindolanda is not part of English Heritage or National Trust, so there is a charge to enter. Book online in advance to save money. You can also get a combo ticket with the Roman Army Museum for a discounted price.
Get more information on the official site here.
2. Lanercost Priory
Built in the 13th century using stones taken from Hadrian’s Wall, Lanercost Priory is one of the most atmospheric ruins in the area. The priory saw turbulent times during the Anglo-Scottish wars, and even hosted King Edward I during the final months of his life. He stayed here while ill, just before dying on the nearby marshes in 1307.
The remains are grand. Don’t miss the elaborate tombs, the vaulted undercroft, and the sense of quiet grandeur that lingers throughout the site. The nave has been preserved as a working parish church.
Just next door, the Lanercost Tea Rooms are the perfect reward for your short detour—only about half a mile off the trail each way.
Admission: Lanercost Priory is an English Heritage site. Free for English Heritage members and Overseas Visitor Pass holders. Non-members will need to pay to visit the ruins. The church is free to enter for everyone.
Get more information on the official site here.
3. Carlisle Castle
If you’re interested in British history, Carlisle Castle is a must-see. We actually visited it a few years ago on a separate road trip, and it left a lasting impression. Try to allow at least 3 hours as there is a lot to explore.
Founded by William II in 1092 on the site of an old Roman fort, the castle has been continuously occupied for over 900 years. It played a vital role in guarding the wild western end of the Anglo-Scottish border and is one of England’s most besieged castles.
Mary Queen of Scots was held prisoner here for a time, and during the Jacobite uprisings, captured rebels were imprisoned in the castle keep, where you can still see some of their carved graffiti. The site is also home to the Cumbria Museum of Military Life, which tells the story of the Border Regiment, one of the oldest in the British Army, headquartered here from the 1700s through the 1960s.
Admission: Carlisle Castle is an English Heritage site. Free for members and Overseas Visitor Pass holders. Non-members will need to pay an entrance fee.
4. Carlisle Cathedral
Carlisle Cathedral began life as a Norman Priory Church in 1122 and was elevated to cathedral status in 1133. It’s smaller than many of England’s great cathedrals, but that only adds to its charm and its unique style sets it apart.
Inside, you’ll notice the darker woodwork and a more intimate atmosphere than you might expect. Look up to admire the gorgeous star-painted ceiling over the nave, and don’t miss the east window, one of the finest examples of medieval stained glass in the country.
Other highlights include the bishop’s throne, the intricate choir stalls, and the treasury, where you can see the 13th-century Carlisle Crucifix, carved from Whitby jet, a truly rare and beautiful piece.
Admission: Free to visit.
Get more information on their official site here.
Bonus Stop: Looking for More? Visit Arbeia in South Shields
Although it’s not on the Hadrian’s Wall Path itself, if you have extra time while in Newcastle, Arbeia is worth a visit. Located in South Shields, about 5 miles from Segedunum, this site features ruins with reconstructed Roman buildings, including a gatehouse, barracks, and commanding officer’s houses that really bring the history to life. There’s also a small museum with a collection of artifacts from the fort.
It’s free to visit and easily reached via the Tyne and Wear Metro as it’s only a 15 minute walk from the South Shields stop.
Admission: Free to visit.
Get more information on their official site here.
Discovering Your Own Highlights Along Hadrian’s Wall
These ten sites (plus a few bonus detours) are the ones that stood out most to me. They’re the places that made me pause, reflect, and feel more connected to the incredible history and landscape of the Hadrian’s Wall Path. Your own list might look completely different and that’s part of what makes this walk so special.
Whether it’s a quiet stretch of countryside, romantic ruins, or a historic church, this route offers something deeply personal for everyone who walks it. You’re not just following a Roman frontier, you’re walking through layers of history, nature, and stories that have shaped the landscape over thousands of years. No two journeys are exactly alike.
Did I miss one of your favorite spots? I’d love to hear what made your personal top 10. Drop a comment below and let’s inspire each other for future walks!
-Anisa
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