If you’re a history buff or simply someone who loves an adventure into the past, put Hadrian’s Wall at the top of your must-visit list. This awe-inspiring Roman relic stretches 73 miles across the rugged northern countryside of England, from the North Sea to the Irish Sea. As you walk along the wall’s ancient footsteps, you’ll be transported back nearly 2,000 years to when brave Roman legions patrolled this frontier of the mighty empire.
A Journey Through Time with English Heritage
English Heritage is a charitable organisation that looks after over 400 historical structures, monuments, and sites in England. Their portfolio ranges from the prehistoric period up to the present, which highlights the colourful history of England. It covers such attractions as Stonehenge, great mediaeval castles, Roman forts on the empire’s fringe, and Cold War shelters. English Heritage engages 10 million visitors annually to learn about the story of England.
Another noteworthy feature of the organisation is that it is called English Heritage, with a focus on the preservation of the country’s history. They have undertaken the biggest conservation campaign in their history and the people get an opportunity to see the careful restoration of monuments and relics. This makes sure that these valuable assets are preserved for the purpose of entertainment and learning by future generations.
The Marvel of Hadrian’s Wall
The Hadrian’s Wall is one of Britain’s most mind-boggling archaeological landmarks and fortunately enough, the people at English Heritage have ensured that this World Heritage Site is conserved and made easily accessible. As the leading organisation for the preservation of England’s historic sites, English Heritage has over 400 properties under its management, and the organisation’s mission is to safeguard these sites for future generations.
What makes Hadrian’s Wall so special is that it offers the chance to do more than just read about Roman Britain in a book. Here, you can see the remains of military forts, towns, pottery, artifacts and mile-castles that allowed this engineering marvel of a defensive wall to function. You can run your hands along the carvings left by Roman soldiers over 1,600 years ago. And with the robust events and recreations put on by English Heritage, you can truly step into the past and experience what life was like on the wild northwestern frontier.
Hadrian’s Wall’s Must-Visit Sites
A good starting point is the Birdoswald Roman Trail, picturesquely set on the River Irthing. This site boasts the longest continuous stretch of Hadrian’s Wall still standing as well as the remains of a Roman fort. You can freely roam the archaeological grounds, checking out excavated structures and informative displays. Then, make sure to stop by during one of English Heritage’s “Kids Rule!” family events, where Roman-clad educators will regale you with stories and activities showcasing the day-to-day of empire life.
Another highlight is Chesters Roman Fort and the surrounding trail area. Situated along the North Tyne River, it’s easy to see why the Romans favored this tranquil spot with ample fresh water. In the fort’s grounds, you can explore the remarkably preserved bath house, hospital, and even bridges the Romans constructed. During special events like “Hail Hadrian,” get in on the action as they recreate chariot races, military drills and mock battles — no better way to burn off kids’ endless energy! The neighboring trails also take you to impressive sites like Cawfields Quarry and Walltown Crags.
For a change of scenery, head east to the Corbridge Roman Town along the Corbridge Trail section. This is where archaeologists discovered the incredible Corbridge Hoard in 1964 — a stashed collection of armor, jewels and artifacts that is one of the most significant finds of Roman history in Britain. The artifacts are no longer on site but exhibited at English Heritage’s museums. However, you can still view the excavated town areas, including the Roman “high street” and gardens.
Engaging Events Along Hadrian’s Wall
No visit to Hadrian’s Wall would be complete without experiencing the incredbile events that English Heritage hosts to make the ancient Roman world come alive. For animal lovers, the “Roman Falconry” events at Birdoswald will leave you in awe, as birds of prey take to the skies in historical flying exhibitions. The “Clash of Romans” at Chesters is a raucous tournament where Roman legions go head-to-head, clashing swords and hurling spears and arrows at each other. You’ll be on the edge of your seat cheering on your side to victory.
Bringing History to Life
While it may be human nature to look at ruins and ancient artifacts through the glass of a museum, Hadrian’s Wall gives you the chance to quite literally walk through history. English Heritage’s commitment to preserving these monumental sites while also creating living, breathing experiences means you’re not just reading about the past — you’re inhabiting it. With rugged trails to hike, forts and towns to discover, and events that let you shout battle cries or marvel at amazing birds, a visit to Hadrian’s Wall guarantees memories that will last a lifetime.
As English Heritage says, gone are the days of learning about history strictly from books and displays. Here, you can experience first-hand the incredible achievements and day-to-day lives of the ancient Romans who inhabited this remote and vitally important frontier of their vast empire over 1,600 years ago. It’s truly a journey into the past that lights up the imagination and leaves you awestruck at how sophisticated and advanced these ancient peoples were. So put on your walking shoes and start planning your own epic exploration of Hadrian’s Wall — the ruins are calling!
