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Self Guided Walk

Hadrian’s Wall Walk

HADRIAN'S WALL WALK HOLIDAY ESSENTIALS

Duration

3-7 Days

Total Distance

83 Miles/134 Kms

Total Ascent

1737 Metres/5700 Feet

Fitness Level

Good

Discover the history of Hadrian’s Wall

Hadrian’s Wall was built by the Emperor Hadrian in AD122 – AD128 as a military defensive barrier on the northern edge of the Roman Frontier in Britain. It was originally a 73 mile long, heavily defended and fortified wall that spanned from coast to coast. Forts and turrets were positioned along its entire length and remains of many can still be seen today. Which is why it is no surprise that Hadrian’s Wall became a UNESCO World Heritage site in 1987!

This self guided walking holiday along Hadrian’s Wall will begin at Wallsend and we can provide transport transfer from Newcastle to Hadrian’s Wall if needed.

Although in theory this route can be walked throughout the year, the weather in the North of England can be very temperamental! Some of the route is at quite a high level and we always advise walkers to take heed of weather forecasts and to be fully prepared for whatever the English climate can throw at you.

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Walk Hadrian’s Wall

Hadrian's Wall Walk
Hadrian's Wall Walk
Hadrian's Wall Path
Hadrian's Wall Path
Hadrian's Wall Walk Hadrian's Wall Walk Hadrian's Wall Path Hadrian's Wall Path

Route Highlights of Hadrian’s Wall

Segedunum Fort

Segedunum, which means ‘Strong Fort’, was built to guard the eastern end of the Wall. Today, it is the most excavated fort along the Wall with surviving foundations of many buildings and part of the Wall itself. The 35-metre-high viewing tower will allow you to see views for miles, while the interactive museum will tell you all about the rich history of this World Heritage Site.

Sycamore Gap

On the early morning of 28th Sept 2023, Sycamore Gap was deliberately felled in what the authorities described as “an act of vandalism”. The felling of the tree led to an outpouring of anger and sadness.

The Sycamore Gap Tree or Robin Hood Tree was a Sycamore Tree standing near to Crag Lough. It was located in a dramatic dip in the landscape, which was created by glacial meltwater and it was a popular photographic subject.

Described as one of the most photographed trees in the country and an emblem for both Hadrians Wall and the North East of England, it derived its alternative name from featuring in a prominent scene in the 1991 film Robin Hood, Prince of Thieves.

The tree also won the 2016 “England Tree of the Year” award and while the tree is no longer standing, the scenery is still a must-see.

Vindolanda

Sat upon the first Roman frontier in the North, Vindolanda was an important construction and garrison base for the wall. Today the Vindolanda site is surrounded by stunning scenery and ancient architecture. Don’t forget to visit the modern world class museum to see Vindolanda’s greatest discovery…the writing tablets!

Housesteads

Found atop Hadrian’s Wall Heritage Site, Housesteads Roman Fort takes you back to the Roman Empire. Take a journey through time as you visit the old barrack blocks and hospital, with panoramic views and history round every corner it is easy to see why Which? Consumers rated it so highly in a recent survey!

The Sill

A National Landscape Discovery Centre, The Sill encourages people to explore the landscape, history, culture and heritage of Northumberland and it’s National Park.

Suggested Itinerary: 6 Day Walking Holiday

Grading: Demanding if walked over 6 days.

Day 0 – Arrive Newcastle

Day 1 - Transfer to Wallsend. Walk to Heddon on the Wall (15 miles)

This transfer is included in your standard package.

Day 2 – Walk from Heddon on the Wall to Chollerford (15 miles)

Day 3 – Walk from Chollerford to Once Brewed (12.5 miles)

Day 4 – Walk from Once Brewed to Lanercost (14.5 miles)

Day 5– Walk from Lanercost to Carlisle (13 miles)

Day 6 – Walk from Carlisle to Bowness on Solway (14 miles)

Day 7 – Onward travel, public transport.

Private transfer options available on request.

Other Suggusted Itineraries

Grading: Moderate – Demanding if walked over 7 days.

Overview:
  • Day 0 – Arrive Newcastle
  • Day 1 – Transfer to Wallsend walk to Heddon on the Wall (15 miles). This transfer is included in your standard package.
  • Day 2 – Walk from Heddon on the Wall to Chollerford (15 miles)
  • Day 3 – Walk from Chollerford to Once Brewed (12 miles)
  • Day 4 – Walk from Once Brewed to Gilsland (8 miles)
  • Day 5 – Walk from Gilsland to Walton (8 miles)
  • Day 6 – Walk from Walton to Carlisle (11.5 miles)
  • Day 7 – Walk from Carlisle to Bowness on Solway (14 miles)
  • Day 8 – Onward travel, Public Transport. Private transfer options available on request.

Grading: Moderate if walked over 8 days.

Overview:
  • Day 0 – Arrive Newcastle
  • Day 1 – Transfer to Wallsend walk to Newburn (11.5 miles). This transfer is included in your standard package.
  • Day 2 – Walk from Newburn to Wallhouses (9.5 miles)
  • Day 3 – Walk from Wallhouses to Chollerford (9 miles)
  • Day 4 – Walk from Chollerford to Once Brewed (12 miles)
  • Day 5 – Walk from Once Brewed to Gilsland (8 miles)
  • Day 6 – Walk from Gilsland to Walton (8 miles)
  • Day 7 – Walk from Walton to Carlisle (11.5 miles)
  • Day 8 – Walk from Carlisle to Bowness on Solway (14 miles)
  • Day 9 – Onward travel, Public Transport. Private transfer options available on request. 

Fully Flexible packages on our self guided holidays

All of our trips are fully flexible to your requirements, tell us what you are after and we can try and tailor our packages to suit your requirements, including:

  • Choose which way you want to walk, our standard package is an East to West (Wallsend to Bowness on Solway) walk, however it is just a popular to go from West to East and we can certainly accommodate that for you.
  • Additional nights prior to, during, or after the trip
    • an extra night in Newcastle
    • an extra night near Vindolanda
    • an extra night in Carlisle
  • Transfers to the start (included in standard package) and from the finish
  • Collection from the airport, ferry or train station
  • Shortened itinerary where you only want to do a section of the route
  • Extended itinerary where you want to add sightseeing or loop days to the route
  • Option to cycle some of the route with our partners www.pedal-power.co.uk
  • Large, or corporate group bookings and looking for additional support/guiding

 

You are free to start your walk on any day of your preference between March and October.

We cannot guarantee trips until accommodation availability has been confirmed.

Maps and Information

The route is very well way-marked and you will be provided with the relevant maps, route notes, GPX files and accommodation information.

However, we always recommend that on all of our trips everyone is competent with navigation, especially if the weather changes and you need to make an unscheduled diversion off the route.

Terrain

The terrain of all our routes can be very varied, below is a general guide to what you can expect, and not expect, on this walk:

  • Minor Roads (Tarmac / Asphalt)
  • Paved Footpaths
  • Way-marked public footpaths / bridleways
  • Grassy unpaved open fields
  • Areas of mud / standing water
  • Sandy Beaches
  • Tidal Water
  • Rocky uneven ascents / decents
  • Requirement for “Scrambling”
  • Streams / Water Crossing (wider than 1m)
  • Risk of Slipping

Some of the steeper climbs around Steel Rigg/Housesteads can be bypassed by following the alternative route (Pennine Way).

MAP & LOCATION

What's Included

Good Quality Accommodation on a B&B basis

All of our accommodation is on a twin/double room sharing, bed and breakfast basis, where possible we will also try and find you en-suite facilities, however this is not always possible in some locations.

Breakfasts will be either cooked or continental and be able to accommodate any food intolerances of preferences providing we are informed of such at least 7 days prior.

Single rooms are available, but will generally attract a supplementary charge.

Many of the accommodations will also provide a packed lunch if required, this will generally need to be booked direct with the accommodations at least 48 hrs prior to arrival and will be chargeable locally.

Daily Baggage Transfers

Our self-guided trips include a baggage transfer service, whereby we will move your excess baggage from accommodation to accommodation each day, allowing you to walk with just minimal emergency equipment, normally just a small backpack. 

Baggage transfer is limited to one bag per person, max weight of 15kg/bag, ideally holdall style bags 

Additional bags or heavier can be transferred if required, however these will be chargeable. 

Transfer to the start of the route

Some of our itineraries will include transfer to the start or from the finish of the walk either as part of the standard package or as an option, please check the individual itinerary.

Maps, Route Notes, GPX Files

You will be given a bespoke map of the route along with general information on the route each day and also a gpx file of the route should you want to download it onto your phone or navigation device

Emergency Recovery

Hopefully all will go smoothly, however accidents and problems can happen. As part of your package we include an emergency rescue service for all of our trips.

Certificate of completion

We all like a “Well done” pat on the back after doing something special or challenging. At Northern Adventures we want you to be able to prove to your friends that you did it by giving you a certificate to say “I DID IT” You will also get one of our super special Northern Adventure Buffs.

What's Not Included

Meals and drinks outside of your package

Any meals or drinks, other than those specifically included in your package.

Travel Insurance

We always recommend that ALL travellers have insurance, even if you are a UK citizen

Taxi or Other Transfers

Taxi or other transfers, other than detailed on your itinerary are not included.

However, transfers are available on request.

Parking

Long term parking available in Jedburgh

Available Trip Options for Hadrian’s Wall

Please use our booking form to choose your preferred option, and remember if theres something you don’t see here don’t hesitate to ask!

Duration Options

Optional Extras

Grab your Walking Equipment Packing List

Not sure what to bring? Don’t fret! We have an essentials list so you don’t forget a thing!

DATES & PRICES

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No of People No of Nights No of Days Walking Standard (Guest House) Package Price/Person Luxury (Hotel) Package (where available) Price/Person
2 7 6 £825 On request
Up to 4 7 6 £805 On request
5 or more 7 6 £785 On request
2 8 7 £925 On request
Up to 4 8 7 £905 On request
5 or more 8 7 £885 On request
2 9 8 £1025 On request
Up to 4 9 8 £1005 On request
5 or more 9 8 £985 On request
Single room  £50.00/night  On request
Solo walker supplement  + 50% of 4 person rate + 50% of 4 person rate
Pets (where allowed)   On request On request
Transfers On request On request

 

– Prices are for guidance only, there may be seasonal or regional variations based on travel dates and accommodation availability, any variations will be confirmed at time of booking.

– Prices are per person and are based on 2 people sharing a twin or double room on a B&B basis and includes baggage transfers, maps, route notes, emergency recovery and transfers.  Where possible all rooms will be ensuite, however we cannot guarantee this at busier periods.

– Our luxury package is often only available as a double room option, please ask if you require twin rooms.

– Additional nights before or after, or stop overs during your trip can be added.

– PLEASE NOTE: We can tailor any package to fit your specific requirements, just let us know what you require.

We do offer discounts for family groups with younger children where they are sharing a family room – just contact us to find out more!

Exploring More of the Hadrian’s Wall Path Experience

Walking Hadrian’s Wall – A Journey Through Landscape and History

Walking Hadrian’s Wall offers a deeper appreciation of the landscapes, ancient stones and sweeping Roman history that shaped Northern England. This iconic trail reveals how the frontier once operated, how Roman soldiers interacted with the land they were tasked with defending and how communities lived beside one of the most significant boundaries in the Roman Empire. Along the national trail, you will encounter varied scenery, from Limestone Corner, the northernmost point of Hadrian’s Wall, to stretches of open moorland, quiet rural farmland and extensive Roman remains, each adding its own character to the journey.

We operate this route in both directions, however the most popular walk follows the Hadrian’s Wall Trail from East to West, beginning at Segedunum and finishing on the west coast at the Solway Firth.

Starting at Segedunum – The Eastern Gateway

Beginning your hiking tour at Segedunum Roman Fort provides an immediate sense of the scale and importance of this ancient frontier. Once directly connected to the River Tyne, Segedunum stood as a key strategic point at the eastern end of the wall. Today, it forms a striking contrast to the open countryside that follows, blending urban surroundings with the first glimpses of the landscapes that define the entire route.

As you head west, the path gradually leaves the riverside and residential edges behind. The surroundings become quieter, with well trodden paths leading you into more rural terrain. This early transition sets a steady rhythm and introduces the wonderful views that continue throughout the walk.

The Central Section – Whin Sill, Limestone Corner and Iconic Views

The central section is widely regarded as the most dramatic section of the Hadrian’s Wall Path. Here, the path crosses the Whin Sill escarpment – a rugged backbone of volcanic rock that lifts the wall into extraordinary scenery. The wall rises and falls over ridges and crags, creating some of the most memorable viewpoints along one of Britain’s most iconic trails.

Limestone Corner, a distinctive geological feature, reinforces the feeling of walking through a landscape shaped by deep time. This stretch rewards both seasoned walkers and those who may find long distance walking more challenging, with expansive panoramas and exposed ridgelines, and it’s worth keeping your eyes peeled for wildlife and shifting details in the landscape. The combination of geology, history and uninterrupted views gives this section a unique energy found nowhere else on the trail.

Towards the Solway – A Gentle Finish Through Open Country

Continuing west, the scenery softens as the trail moves toward the Solway coastline. The contrast to the sharp rises and falls of the Whin Sill is immediate, offering a more relaxed pace for the final days of your hiking tour. Birdoswald Roman Fort, a highlight along this stretch, provides insight into military operations on the frontier and how local communities relied on the wall for centuries.

As you approach the Solway coast, the landscape opens into broad skies and peaceful farmland, offering a gentle and reflective finish to your journey. This calmer terrain invites quiet reflection on the engineering achievement of the Roman army and the centuries of history embedded within the landscape.

Planning Your Walk

Preparation plays a key role in ensuring an enjoyable and comfortable walk along Hadrian’s Wall. Weather conditions can change quickly, and the route features a mixture of well trodden paths, rocky stretches and exposed viewpoints. To make your journey as straightforward as possible, we provide baggage transfers and transport as part of our packages, as well as parking, so you can focus entirely on the walking experience.

Along the route, you will find a number of access points with car park options and occasional toilet facilities, making it easy to plan breaks and daily stages.

Frequently Asked Questions:

How difficult is the Hadrian’s Wall Walk for someone new to long-distance hiking?

The route is suitable for most people with a reasonable level of fitness. While much of the trail follows steady, well-trodden paths, the central section includes steeper climbs and uneven ground. Experienced walkers will find it steady, while those new to long-distance hiking may find the full journey more challenging. With preparation and sensible pacing, most walkers complete the route comfortably.

Do I need a Hadrian’s Wall Path passport for this walking holiday?

The passport is optional, but many walkers enjoy collecting stamps along the way as a reminder of their experience.

**Please note that these are currently out of print**

What Roman sites will I see while walking Hadrian’s Wall?

You will encounter several major Roman sites across the route, including Segedunum Roman Fort, Housesteads Fort and Birdoswald Roman Fort. Vindolanda Settlement, located a short walk off the main trail, is also a must-see if time allows. Its excavations and museum offer exceptional insight into both military and civilian life, making it one of the most rewarding sites along the frontier. Across the entire journey, you will experience extensive Roman remains that reveal how this boundary shaped local life for generations.

What weather should I expect along the trail?

The weather can shift quickly, especially in the exposed central section. Wet weather, strong winds and changes in visibility are all common, with coastal winds becoming more noticeable near the Solway. To help you prepare, we will provide you with a comprehensive suggested packing list covering clothing, equipment and essentials suited to each stage of the route.

How do I organise logistics such as luggage transport or transfers?

There is no need to arrange any of this yourself. We provide all logistics as part of your package, including baggage transfers, transport and parking options. This ensures a smooth journey from start to finish, without the need to carry heavy bags or coordinate separate travel arrangements.

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