Stone walls, open moorland, and a coast-to-coast journey across northern England
Hadrian’s Wall Path follows the line of the Roman frontier from Wallsend on the River Tyne to Bowness-on-Solway on the Cumbrian coast, linking towns, farmland, and upland crags across the breadth of northern England. For those exploring the region through self-guided travel, the route forms a continuous walking journey where archaeology and landscape are closely intertwined, with the remains of the Wall appearing and disappearing beside the path.
The early stages leave the Tyne and move gradually into open countryside, where fields and small settlements mark a steady progression westward. Further inland the terrain begins to rise. Paths climb onto the dark escarpment of the Whin Sill, where stretches of stone wall trace the ridge above lakes and moorland, creating some of the most distinctive scenery along the route.
Much of the central section passes through Northumberland National Park and the Hadrian’s Wall World Heritage Site, where forts, turrets, and earthworks sit directly beside the path. Places such as Housesteads, Steel Rigg, and Chesters feel less like isolated landmarks and more like part of the landscape itself — reminders that the frontier once followed this same line across the hills.
Beyond the crags the ground softens again. Farmland and river valleys lead towards Carlisle, and the final miles cross the wide, tidal marshes of the Solway coast. Here the walk becomes quieter and more open, ending among big skies and estuary light rather than stone walls.
Although rich in history, the character of the trail is defined as much by space and distance as by heritage. It is a route best experienced steadily, where long views, weather, and the rhythm of walking connect the eastern and western coasts into one continuous journey.
Trail Overview
Distance
Approximately 84 miles / 135 km
Typical time on foot
5–7 days
Start
Wallsend, Newcastle upon Tyne
Finish
Bowness-on-Solway
Terrain
Farmland paths, ridge walking, moorland tracks, quiet lanes, river valleys, and coastal marsh
