Hadrian's Wall
Hadrian's Wall
Hadrian's Wall - Discover the northern frontier of a mighty empire
For around three centuries, Hadrian’s Wall was a vibrant frontier. It spanned almost 80 miles coast-to-coast. Built by a force of 15,000 men in under six years, it was an engineering triumph. The World Heritage Site stretches from Ravenglass Roman Bath House across into Northumberland ending in Wallsend. It was built between 122 and 128 AD and is 150 miles long.
In the second century AD, the Roman Frontiers encompassed much of Europe, the Middle East and North Africa. It is hoped that other stretches of FRE (The Roman Empire) will be inscribed by UNESCO to the ‘transnational’ site, eventually making the FRE one of the largest World Heritage Sites of all. The remains of milecastles, barracks, ramparts and forts can still be seen. The Senhouse Roman Museum is a must see. It house the largest collection of Roman military alter stones in the country.
Senhouse Roman Museum
With a heritage closely connected to the sea, Maryport played an important part in Roman Britain. The natural harbour and sea defences made it a perfect location for the Roman fort known as Aluana. A series of milefortlets, turrets and Roman roads connected it with the rest of the Frontier. The Senhouse Roman Museum houses the largest collection of Roman military altar stones in Britain. Most of the collection was found in or around Maryport. Look out for special events and excavations.
Bowness on Solway
At the western end of Hadrian’s Wall, Bowness on Solway in Roman times guarded approaches from the sea. The village is built on the site of the Roman fort. Stones from the fort can be seen in the local buildings, including the Norman church of St. Michael.
Hadrian's Wall Path
The path, starts (or ends) at Bowness on Solway. It’s a long-distance footpath with 84 miles (135km) of glorious walking. It includes stunning coastlines, rugged moorland, and rolling fields. Navigation is not difficult. The route is very clearly marked with the acorn symbol as well as way marking arrows.
Milefortlet 21
Milefortlet 21, just before the village of Allonby is the only part of Hadrian’s coastal defences to have been wholly excavated. The site consists of a viewing platform over the exposed excavation with fine views out to sea. Milecastles provided passageway and housed the Roman soldiers who protected the frontier and constructed the defences.
Hadrian's Wall Official Film