Walking in Hadrian's Wall Country

There is no doubt that walking in Hadrian’s Wall Country is a real pleasure with the area boasting an incredible amount of historic sites, both Roman and non-Roman, as well as spectacular landscapes. Unfortunately, the vast majority of visitors to Hadrian’s Wall choose to walk solely along the line of the wall, missing out the superb circular walks to the north and south of the Roman Wall.

Below you will find details of 7 circular walking routes along and close to the line of Hadrian’s Wall. All of the walks take you through some of the finest landscapes of northern England as well as giving you the chance to discover a less well known view of this incredible feat of Roman engineering. Details of refreshment stops are also included.

Downloadable Hadrian's Wall walking routes

Wylam to Prudhoe, 3.5 miles (Easy)

Starting from Wylam railway station, the oldest working railway station in the world, this gentle riverside walk takes you along the banks of the River Tyne to Prudhoe, home to one of the most impressive castles in Northumberland.

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Corbridge Roman Town and Aydon Castle, 6 miles (Moderate)

Corbridge Roman Town and Aydon Castle route card

A fabulous circular walk from the ancient market town of Corbridge to Aydon Castle passing through some of the Tyne Valley's most unspoilt countryside. Make sure you leave enough time to explore Corbridge Roman site and museum.

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Chesters and Humshaugh, 2.5 miles (Easy)

Chesters and Humshaugh walking route card

Starting from the beautiful Chesters Walled Garden, this short walk allows you to explore one of Northumberland’s most underrated gardens as well as Chesters Roman Fort, arguably the most picturesque fort on Hadrian's Wall.

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A "barbarian" view of Hadrian's Wall, 3.5 miles (Strenuous - several steep slopes)

This circular walk commences from Steel Rigg and winds across some of the most dramatic sections of Hadrian's Wall. The return journey follows the lower ground to the north of the wall, giving you a "barbarian" view of Hadrian's Wall.

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Once Brewed, Roman Vindolanda and Housesteads, 7.5 miles (Strenuous - several steep slopes)

Once Brewed, Vindolanda and Housesteads walking route card

Don't let the strenuous grading put you off! This is the most rewarding short walk along Hadrian’s Wall taking in the dramatic section of the wall close to Steel Rigg and two of the finest Roman Forts, Vindolanda and Housesteads.

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Cawfields to Caw Gap, 2 miles (Moderate - some steep slopes)

For those unable to complete the above walk, this is a less strenuous alternative. The section of wall at Cawfields Crags enjoys stunning views over the surrounding countryside and will appeal to all budding photographers.

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Haltwhistle Burn to Cawfields, 6 miles (Strenuous)

Haltwhistle Burn to Cawfields walking route card

Beginning and ending in the market town of Haltwhistle this strenuous walking route takes you past numerous disused Roman marching camps on the way to Hadrian's Wall. Great Chesters Roman Fort can be added to the walk.

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If you would like to download all of these routes, plus several more, please click here.