Hadrian's Wall Path: Walking England's Most Historic Trek

Natascha Langelaan
Natascha Langelaan
28 Feb 2024 11 min read
Hadrian's Wall Path: Walking England's Most Historic Trek
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The Hadrian’s Wall Path National Trail is a fascinating and rewarding coast-to-coast walk from the North Sea to the Irish Sea alongside the iconic Hadrian’s Wall in Northern England. It is Britain’s biggest Roman archaeological feature and a UNESCO World Heritage Site and opened in 2003. Hadrian's Wall is located near the border between modern-day Scotland and England and follows the course of the famous Roman Wall, which marked the boundary between Roman Britannia and Caledonia to the north.The route is one of Britain’s most popular long-distance walks. In this blog post, we have included all you need to know to walk the Hadrian’s Wall Path, including the route, the map, distance, baggage transfer services, accommodations, and more!

The Hadrian’s Wall Path is a great trekking adventure. The route is 84 miles long, which is equal to 135 kilometers. The route is divided into 8 stages, from Wallsend to Bowness-on-Solway, but you can arrange it depending on your fitness level and experience. The Hadrian’s Wall Path is for everyone. You can also choose to do this walk faster, and walk the whole trek in 6 days. It is up to you. Are you ready for this historic adventure? Let’s go!

Origins of the Hadrian’s Wall Path

When trekking on Hadrian's Wall Path, you are immersing yourself in a significant chapter of British history. It is no surprise that Hadrian's Wall is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Where is Hadrian's Wall?

Hadrian's Wall, also known as Pict's Wall or Roman Wall, runs from Wallsend on the River Tyene in the east to Bowness-on-Solway in the West. The wall covered the entire width of Britain. Hadrian's Wall marked the boundary between Roman Britannia and Caledonia to the North. Don't be mistaken, this wall has never shaped the border between England and Scotland.

When was Hadrian's Wall built?

Construction of Hadrian's Wall started in 122 AD. Hadrian believed in using natural boundaries to protect the Roman Empire. In Britain, however, there wasn't a river that could service this purpose. Hadrian saw a wall as the only feasible option and he ordered the construction after visiting the British territories of the Empire in 122 AD.

Why was Hadrian's Wall built?

It is obvious that Emperor Hadrian wanted to see the British territories of the Roman Empire protected. But protected from what, exactly? When the Romans arrived on the British islands, ancient Britain was inhabited by various tribes, each with their own land. The Caledonii and the Damnonii inhabited Caledonia, the Northern territories. Their battle tactics were ruthless and their weapons brutal. The Romans were never able to defeat them and uprisings flared up regularly. For Hadrian, the wall was the only option.

Origins of the Hadrian’s Wall Path

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Distance: How Long Is Hadrian’s Wall Path?

Hadrian’s Wall Path runs from Wallsend to Bowness-on-Solway. The trail is 84 miles long, which is equal to 135 kilometers and is divided into 8 stages. On the way, the route guides you along the Roman wall. You will also discover fascinating border towns and villages.

Hadrian’s Wall Path: Weather and Best Season

Hadrian’s Wall Path is best walked between March and October. In England, famous for its rain, the Gulf Stream provides a mild climate and weather that is heavily influenced by the sea. The warmest months are July and August, with temperatures averaging 16 to 21 degrees Celsius. Those are also the months when the most tourists come to England. Rain falls throughout the year, and the English weather can be very changeable. Average rainfall in the north is over 1600 millimeters, but the central and southern parts of the country record an annual average of less than 800 millimeters. April, May and June are the driest months.

Did you know that we can book all overnight accommodation for the Hadrian's Wall Path for you? Check out all our options here.

The Hadrian’s Wall Path map

Below you will find a map with the 8 stages of this walk, starting in Wallsend and ending in Bowness-on-Solway.

Walking Hadrian’s Wall Path: Route From Day to Day

The Hadrian’s Wall Path is divided into 8 stages, starting in Wallsend and ending in Bowness-on-Solway. The level of difficulty of the trek will depend on the number of days you choose to complete the whole trek. You can find the details on the 6-day trek here. Below, you will find the 8 stages of the Hadrian’s Wall Path:

Day
1

Arrival in Wallsend

Today you will have to make your way to Wallsend. Here, you will spend the night preparing for your Hadrian's Wall Path adventure.

County Hotel Newcastle (Newcastle)

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County Hotel Newcastle (Newcastle)
Day
2

Wallsend to Heddon

Duration: 06:37 h
Distance: 25.4 km
Ascent: 210 m
Descent: 100 m
The first day follows the River Tyne along Newcastle, underneath numerous bridges, including the Millennium Bridge. The path then continues west out of the city to the village of Heddon on the Wall.

Hadrian's Barn (Heddon)

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Hadrian's Barn (Heddon)
Day
3

Heddon to Chollerford

Duration: 06:55 h
Distance: 25.9 km
Ascent: 270 m
Descent: 340 m
Today, you will follow Hadrian’s Wall through the Northumberland countryside where the Roman Ditch can be seen. Past the hamlet of Harlow Hill, hike towards the landmark Robin Hood Inn, then on towards Chollerford, where sections of the wall can be seen.

The George Hotel (Chollerford)

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The George Hotel (Chollerford)
Day
4

Chollerford to Once Brewed

Duration: 05:29 h
Distance: 19.9 km
Ascent: 390 m
Descent: 220 m
The trail leads you through the Northumberland National Park and brings you to a Roman temple at the fort of Brocolitia. You then walk along some of the most spectacular and best preserved parts of Hadrian's Wall.

Vallum Lodge Guest House (Once Brewed)

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Vallum Lodge Guest House (Once Brewed)
Day
5

Once Brewed to Lanercost

Duration: 06:58 h
Distance: 25.6 km
Ascent: 310 m
Descent: 480 m
The route continues with a climb over Winshields rugged rocks and to the highest point of the trail at 345 m with wonderful views over the countryside and some of Hadrian’s Wall’s best-preserved sections. You also pass the remains of Great Chesters and Magnis Forts. You will then walk to the village of Gilsland, where you can relax at a local cafe or pub before continuing towards Lanercost.

Lanercost Equestrian and Country (Lanercost)

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Lanercost Equestrian and Country (Lanercost)
Day
6

Lanercost to Carlisle

Duration: 06:02 h
Distance: 23.3 km
Ascent: 120 m
Descent: 140 m
The wall continues on past Birdoswald, taking you down towards Walton. From Walton, the route continues through farmland, following the Roman Ditch line through the hamlet of Newtown into Carlisle. This is a vibrant city on the Scotland/England border with a stunning Cathedral, Castle and City Wall.

Cumbria Park Hotel (Carlisle)

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Cumbria Park Hotel (Carlisle)
Day
7

Carlisle to Bowness-on-Solway

Duration: 06:17 h
Distance: 24.7 km
Ascent: 70 m
Descent: 80 m
Starting along the Eden banks, you will then walk past the village of Burgh-by-Sands with the statue of Edward 1 next to the Greyhound Inn. The route continues to the official end of the trail at Bowness-on-Solway. This town is internationally known as an area of outstanding natural beauty for its thriving birdlife and has a charm of its own.

Wallsend Guest House & Glamping Pods (Bowness-on-Solway)

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Wallsend Guest House & Glamping Pods (Bowness-on-Solway)
Day
8

Departure

After breakfast, our services and your Hadrian's Wall Path adventure will be over. Have a safe trip back home!
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Hadrian’s Wall Path Accommodation

On the Hadrian’s Wall Path, you can either spend the night in a cozy hotel or in a typical English B&B, where you will receive a warm welcome and a typical English breakfast. The accommodation options can be a bit limited at times. The Hadrian’s Wall Path is a popular trek in England and it welcomes thousands of trekkers every year. Arranging the stages and booking the accommodation should not be taken lightly, since the hotels get fully booked months in advance.

Hadrian’s Wall Path Accommodation

At Bookatrekking.com, we not only book your accommodation and luggage transport, we also send you on your way with a comprehensive hiking guide with the most important information for your Hadrian's Wall Path, including interactive Komoot maps. Browse all our options here and turn your dreams into reality.

Luggage Transport on Hadrian’s Wall Path

Hadrian’s Wall Path is a very popular trek and attracts thousands of tourists every year. Thanks to this popularity, there is always a possibility to have your luggage transported. Your suitcase will be picked up from your hotel each morning and it will be ready for you at your next hotel at the end of the day.

Walk the Hadrian’s Wall Path: Starting and Ending Point

Hadrian’s Wall Path begins in Wallsend and ends in Bowness-on-Solway. The path can be walked in both ways. Both starting point and ending point are reachable by public transport.

Starting Point

To get to Wallsend, you first have to travel to Newcastle Airport or Manchester International Airport. Public transport will bring you to Wallsend in less than an hour. You can also drive to Wallsend by car and pick it up after the hike.

Ending Point

Hadrian’s Wall Path ends in Bowness-on-Solway. The way back to both Newcastle Airport and Manchester International Airport takes you over 3 hours by public transport. In case you came by car, the way back to Wallsend will take you over 3 hours by public transport. There are also possibilities to take a taxi cab.

Walk the Hadrian’s Wall Path: Starting and Ending Point

Not sure yet or want to discuss your plans for the Hadrian's Wall Path with one of our trekking experts? Get in touch today and turn your dreams into memories!

Packing List for the Hadrian's Wall Path

No matter where you go hiking or for how long, bringing the right equipment is of utmost importance. For your hike, the first thing you need is a good backpack. The size of it will depend on the number of days you will be trekking, the season and the clothes you take with you. If you have luggage transport, the comfort level of your daypack is most important. We have compiled a packing list with a few essential items of clothing you should bring and some extras you might find useful:
  • Essentials

  • Extras

Safety tips for the Hadrian's Wall Path

Although this is far from being a trek in the Himalayas, unexpected things can always happen and you might also find obstacles on the hiking trails along the way. The Hadrian's Wall Path is safe, the trails are quite straight forward and there is not an extreme difference in altitude. However, for your safety, every hike deserves a level of respect; respect for the terrain, the trails, wildlife and vegetation, local rules and regulations, and above all, your physical capabilities and safety. Therefore, for an unforgettable and safe hiking memory, please keep the following safety recommendations in mind:

  • Know your limits

    Always prepare each stage carefully to use your energy wisely, respect your physical and mental limitations, and avoid taking unnecessary risks. When ascending or descending, if applicable, always use the aids provided, such as handrails and ropes. Is this trek suitable for you? Well, familiarize yourself with the grading system and figure out if this trek matches your capabilities. If you still need professional advice you can always contact Bookatrekking.com experts.

  • Stay on marked trails

    The most important thing is to never leave the marked paths. For easy navigation we work with our trusted partner Komoot, whose interactive maps, also available offline, provide you with the necessary digital means to get from A to B in the Hadrian's Wall Path. As a backup, make sure to bring a hiking guide or a paper map with you.

  • Fully equipped

    Make sure you have the necessary gear for the conditions you'll be facing, including appropriate clothing, footwear, and any necessary equipment for the terrain you'll be hiking on. Always wear clothing adapted to the weather of Hadrian's Wall Path and protect yourself from cold and wetness or heat and sun. Besides, make sure you carry enough food and water for the duration of your trek. On the way, you might (or might not) be able to buy snacks.

  • Stay reachable

    If you are hiking solo or in small groups it is advisable to inform people back home about your plans, what route you are taking and when you plan to return. Even small incidents can lead to unpleasant emergencies so make sure you are available at all times. Bring a charged phone containing at least the phone numbers of immediate family members, your accommodations en route and the emergency phone numbers operating in the Hadrian's Wall Path.

  • Respect for nature

    Do not litter, prevent noise, stay on the marked trails, do not disturb wildlife or grazing animals, and respect protected areas.

Where Can I Book the Hadrian's Wall Path?

At Bookatrekking.com you can book the self-guided Hadrian's Wall Path and many other treks. We take care of all the details for you, including arranging accommodations, organizing luggage transportation and providing you with relevant information well in advance of your trek. Find our offers here. Our easy-to-use platform allows you to browse and compare different trekking options and find the perfect fit for your interests, abilities, and budget.

If you have any questions about a specific trek or need help choosing the right one for you, our team of trekking experts is here to assist you. Simply reach out to us and we will be happy to provide you with personalized recommendations and advice to help you plan the trekking adventure of a lifetime.

Is the Hadrian's Wall Path not your cup of tea and are you looking for other epic adventures? Check out one of our following blog posts:

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