Hadrian’s Wall is an incredible Roman structure that runs across the north of England. Construction of this ancient fortification was started in AD 122, during the reign of emperor Hadrian. Today, there is a walking path that runs along it, and archaeological stops along the way. For those not wanting to walk the whole thing, there are many interesting places to see along the way. A weekend at Hadrian’s Wall is a great way to learn some history, and see some beautiful landscapes.
After a rather humorous attempt at walking some of Hadrian’s Wall in late Autumn (I know, I know), and being driven away by the sideways sleet and a terrible gale; we decided to try again during the spring. Luckily, on this occasion, we managed to enjoy more of the scenery along this historic route.
Where to stay at Hadrian’s Wall
There are many great inns and towns dotted along near Hadrian’s Wall, so where you stay really depends on where you want to visit. We wanted to visit Vindolanda (the ruins of a roman settlement), and walk some of wall near Sycamore Gap (as seen in Robin Hood: Prince of Thieves).
For me, the most important thing after a hike in crazy weather is being able to retreat back to a lovely cozy hotel. Travelling with the dog often limits our choices, as not all hotels are dog-friendly. However, we found the very dog-friendly and very cozy Nent Hall Country House Hotel in Alston, not far from the areas along Hadrian’s Wall we wanted to visit.
Nent Hall Country House
Our room was huge and comfortable, just what we needed after our day out, and we slept like logs! The very lovely hotel staff also ensured that we were accommodated with the dog at breakfast time – something that not all dog-friendly hotels do. The full english breakfast was again very generous, and after seeing our bleary faces, the staff brought us big pots of coffee, such a welcome treat.
Nent Hall Dining
There’s also nothing better than a good meal after a long day exploring. The restaurant at Nent Hall serves hearty traditional fare in generous portions. For starters we had the chicken goujons and the whitebait – both were delicious. The homemade tartare sauce served with the whitebait was particularly excellent.
For mains, I had the steak and ale pie served with thrice-cooked chips and vege; and my husband had the beef burger. The pièce de résistance was the dessert though – the lemon tart was silky smooth and a delightful end to our meal. My husband partook of the cigar menu also – something you don’t find often, and a really nice touch. The hotel also has a nook off to the side of the restaurant, with a fireplace and a nice relaxed ambience – a perfect spot in which to partake in a pre-bed whisky or digestif!
Disclaimer: We received a free meal from Nent Hall Hotel, however we paid for our accommodation and all opinions are our own.
Exploring Hadrian’s Wall
Hadrian’s Wall took 15,000 men 6 years to build, and stretches nearly entirely from coast to coast. Here are a few of our favourite areas to explore.
Sycamore Gap
Sycamore Gap is one of the most photographed trees in the UK. Made famous by a scene in Robin Hood (the Kevin Costner version), it is along a beautiful hiking route too. Start at the Steel Rigg carpark (near Henshaw), and follow the wall for 1 mile. It doesn’t sound like much, but there is some very rugged terrain. We have had to turn back twice, once for snow and once for mud.
It seems that gale force winds do indeed come hand in hand with this part of the country (being near the wild Pennine hills perhaps has something to do with this?), and we nearly got blown off the steep steps at many points. Wear proper hiking boots and a jacket, you will encounter high rock steps to climb and varying terrains.
The wall itself is in immaculate condition, and being able to walk alongside it is such a fantastic feeling. On the first steep slope, with steps winding up to the summit of the crags, you’d do well to hold on for dear life to Vallum Hadriani itself (but be careful, it’s still an historic site)!
Vindolanda
Vindolanda is the most excavated site along Hadrian’s wall, with a museum and live archeological digs in the summer months. It is amazing to imagine life on the Roman front line 2000 years ago. Seeing the layout of the accommodations, shops and everyday life is pretty cool.
Entry into Vindolanda and the Roman Army Museum is around c.£12pp for both.
A Weekend at Hadrian’s Wall
There’s a lot to see in Northumberland and Cumbria alone. We are lucky to have this history on our doorstep; and with the Lake District just up the road, why not make a vacation of it? You could even check out spending a night in the Scottish Borders too!
Learn about more Roman history in Rome itself with this 3 day itinerary!
All photos © Hannah Henderson and may not be used without permission (sharing this blog post is fine, though!). Images shot with a Canon DSLR T31 Rebel + Canon EF Lens 50mm 1:1.8 STM; and an iPhone6s.
