Enjoy Hadrian’s Wall Country
Hadrian’s Wall Country offers a picturesque snapshot of British rural life. Hadrian's Wall is surrounded by many market towns, with Hexham and Corbridge being two of the primary locations to stay when visiting the Wall. Should you wish to take full advantage of the country atmosphere then The Battlesteads Hotel or Matfen Hall Hotel would be highly advised. With a huge emphasis on customer service and quality, both of these hotels are located close to Hadrian's Wall Country's main destinations and offer the perfect opportunity to relax after a busy day.
There is no better place to understand the story of the northwest Frontier of the Roman Empire than Hadrian's Wall Country. The recently refurbished Roman Vindolanda is renowned as one of Europe's most important archaeological sites and allows the opportunity for visitors to explore Roman life on the edge of the Empire. Housesteads Roman Fort, due to re-open in Spring 2012 is the most iconic Frontier fort set atop the dramtic Whin Sill. You may also wish to visit the Roman Army Museum, which is located close to Roman Vindolanda near a sweeping section of the original Hadrian's Wall.
In addition to Hadrian's Wall's main attractions, landmarks such as Hexham Abbey and the National trust Allen Banks and Gorge are often popular locations for visitors from outside of the area.
The market towns in Hadrian's Wall Country are renowned for their friendly, welcoming atmosphere and you will find an array of restaurants and cafes at every turn. Whether you're looking for a traditional bistro specialising in local produce, or a tearoom offering home cooked cakes, Hadrian's Wall Country has it all. There are also many country pubs where you can fully soak up the market town atmosphere.
Should you wish to explore the Wall on foot then Sycamore Gap is definitely a destination that is not to be missed. Famous for its appearance in the Hollywood film Robin Hood: Prince of Thieves, Sycamore Gap provides stunning views across the acres of countryside. A short walk will also take you to Steel Rigg where you can view the remains of three well-preserved milecastles, in addition to soaking up fantastic views of the Wall and surrounding areas.
Historic Carlisle was once the administrative capital of the Roman north of England. The new Roman Frontier: Stories beyond Hadrian's Wall Gallery is the centrepiece of the Tullie House Museum & Art Gallery. The gallery charts the history of Rome's arrival to the north of England, and introduces visitors to themes and concepts that can be explored beyond the city into the wider landscape of the World Heritage Site. Located in the heart of Carlisle, the Tullie House Museum & Art Gallery also houses fascinating collections and introduces galleries linked to the Border region post Roman rule, and also runs regular exhibitions and events.
Carlisle's Historic Quarter also boasts the dramatic Carlisle Castle which dominates the northern edge of the city overlooking vast open parkland and the River Eden, as well as Carlisle's impressive Cathedral, well worth exploring if just to see the high vaulted interior ceilings.
The Hadrian's Wall Path National Trail runs directly through Carlisle, and you may wish to take a circular walk around the city centre and follow the Trail to fully appreciate the beauty of the area.
Escape from the city centre and explore all that rural Hadrian's Wall Country has to offer. The Solway Coast Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty is renowned for its natural landscapes, varied birdlife and stunning sunsets and is definitely not to be missed, just make sure you take a camera!
Carlisle is perfect location to start your exploration of the Hadrian's Wall World Heritage Site, and a trip to Birdoswald Roman Fort is definitely advised. Here you'll find one of the longest remaining stretches of Hadrian's Wall, and the excavated fort at Birdoswald offers many Roman interactive displays and artefacts. There is also a tearoom located on-site, where you can enjoy homemade cakes and treats whilst watching the wildlife in the surrounding areas. Beyond here, the dramtic frontier landscape provides a stunning backdrop connecting you to the sites at the Roman Army Museum, Roman Vindolanda and Housesteads.
Many people make the trip to Hadrian’s Wall Country on the train and then take full advantage of the numerous bus services that run regularly throughout the area. The Hadrian's Wall Country AD122 Bus is one of the most popular routes, starting from the centre of Carlisle and calling at the Wall’s key attractions.
Whilst visiting Hadrian's Wall Country, make sure you take a trip to a local pub to get a true feel of the area. Renowned for its friendliness and country ambience, we're sure you won't be disappointed. There are also many bistros, village pubs, restaurants and cafes offering something for all tastes. There are many centrally located B&Bs and hotels, such as the Travelodge or Ibis, which are situated in the heart of the city and allow visitors to fully explore Carlisle and its surrounding areas.
Hadrian’s Wall Country provides a range of activities suitable for families with children of all ages. There are lots of hotels and lodges that offer self-catering facilities, ideal for those travelling with teenagers or young children.
Staying in or close to one of the local towns such as Hexham, Corbridge or Haltwhistle provides easy access to key sites such as Walltown and Roman Army Museum, Housteads Roman Fort and Steel Rigg. All of these locations offer a unique and educational insight into Roman Britain, with artefacts, re-enactments and interactive displays.
In addition to the renowned Hadrian's Wall sites, there are a range of English Heritage Sites nearby, including Prudhoe Castle and Aydon Casle. There are also several National Trust sites located in the surrounding areas - all of which can be explored at your leisure.
All of the sites located in Hadrian's Wall Country are easily accessible by road and the AD122 bus will take you to the Wall's main attractions.
There are many places to eat in Hadrian's Wall Country. All of the surrounding towns and cities offer restaurants that serve foods from across the World. Should you require a more traditional meal then a visit to one of the many traditional pubs would be advised. You will find that most locations offer family-friendly dining.
To complete your visit to Hadrian's Wall Country, you may wish to take a walk along the National Trial. Areas between Brampton and Corbridge offer unforgettable views of the countryside and show the remains of Hadrian's Wall in all of their glory.
