An 84-mile journey across Roman history, windswept ridges, and the dramatic landscapes of northern England
The Hadrian’s Wall Path is one of Britain’s greatest long-distance trails — an 84-mile National Trail following the line of the Roman frontier from Wallsend (Newcastle) to Bowness-on-Solway. Perfect for walking holidays and outdoor adventures, the route leads through rolling Northumberland hills, rugged crags, open moorland, peaceful farmland, and historic market towns, with unforgettable stretches beside the Wall itself.
Whether you walk the entire coast-to-coast journey or explore shorter sections, this trail offers a rare blend of archaeology, wild scenery, and accessible waymarked walking. The most dramatic section sits in North East England, between Steel Rigg, Crag Lough, and Housesteads — one of the most iconic landscapes in the UK.
Trail Overview
- Distance: 84 miles (135 km)
- Start: Wallsend, Newcastle upon Tyne (North East England)
- Finish: Bowness-on-Solway (Cumbria, North West England)
- Difficulty: Moderate
- Time Required: 5–7 days for the full trail
- Waymarking: Excellent — National Trail acorn symbols
- Terrain: Ridge walking, farmland, moorland, river valleys, urban outskirts
- Best For: Walking holidays, history lovers, long-distance hikers, slow travellers
This is a trail designed for walkers — steady gradients, clear paths, and a wealth of viewpoints, heritage sites, and places to stop along the way.
Explore the Route
Wallsend to Heddon-on-the-Wall
The trail begins on the River Tyne, passing Segedunum Roman Fort before leaving the city and reaching open countryside.
Heddon to Chollerford
Gentle farmland walking with hints of the Wall emerging. A calm introduction before the landscapes grow wilder.
Chollerford to Steel Rigg
One of the best stretches for heritage. Chesters Fort, exposed ridgelines, and glimpses of the dramatic Whin Sill.
Steel Rigg to Housesteads to Walltown Crags
The iconic section of the entire route — sweeping cliffs, dramatic dips, and the best-preserved stretches of Wall.
Crag Lough, Sycamore Gap viewpoint, Housesteads Fort, and endless photo opportunities.
Walltown to Greenhead to Walton
A slightly gentler section, with turf wall remains, moorland edges, and wide rural views.
Walton to Carlisle
Easy, pastoral walking through classic Cumbrian farmland. Carlisle offers a castle, museums, and a great overnight stop.
Carlisle to Bowness-on-Solway
A peaceful finish across the Solway Coast wetlands, with vast skies and estuary views leading to the western trailhead.
Outdoor Adventures
- Ridge walking beside the Wall on the Whin Sill escarpment
- Photography at Steel Rigg, Crag Lough & Housesteads
- Archaeology-focused walking days around Vindolanda & Chesters
- Wildlife spotting along moorland edges and Solway marshes
- Short scenic circuits from major forts and viewpoints
Nearby Destinations
- Hexham – Market town gateway with abbey and river walks
- Haltwhistle – “Centre of Britain,” close to spectacular crags
- Haydon Bridge – Riverside village with quiet walking routes
- Carlisle – Castle, city walls, museums, and easy trail access
- Bowness-on-Solway – Western trailhead overlooking the estuary