Hadrian's Wall Walking Tours: Guided Walks and Forts

A short walk or a full day

The short guided option combines a walk with fort entry and provides walking poles. It is an introduction rather than a package for walking the National Trail. Check the meeting instructions and the conditions of the selected date, and wear footwear suitable for uneven ground.

The full-day Roman history experience starts at Cawfield Quarry. A guide shares information about Roman Britain and entry to two of four possible Roman sites is included. The particular selection is not fixed. Transport between the sites, food and drink are extra, so make a practical travel plan before booking.

These experiences put different emphasis on walking and interpretation. If you prefer a coach journey from a distant starting point, compare the other trips and tickets. For background on the structures and objects you may encounter, the history guide explains the frontier landscape.

Cawfields and Milecastle 42

Cawfields is a former quarry and a starting point for seeing Milecastle 42 and a surviving section of wall. The quarry contains water below rocky edges. Swimming is prohibited. If visiting after dark, take particular care at the quarry edge and use the designated platform by the picnic area for stargazing.

The car park has a parking charge, which is separate from admission to a museum or fort. Check the current terms and opening arrangements before travelling. Toilets, including Changing Places facilities, and a covered picnic area are listed at Cawfields. Allow time to reach the meeting point and make the return journey.

An outdoor stop can be combined with a museum visit, but the travel between them still needs planning. The Roman Army Museum and Vindolanda occupy separate sites. Their displays can add context to the remains seen on a walk, provided their opening hours fit the day.

Prepare for the ground and the weather

The National Trail is 135 km long, and experienced walkers are advised to allow around six to seven days for the full route. That figure describes the trail, not the length of either guided experience on this page. For a shorter outing, select a route appropriate to the group and arrange how to get back to the start.

The recommended period for protecting the trail is Easter to October. This is not a winter closure, and wet ground can occur during the recommended period too. Wear boots with grip, carry waterproof layers, food and water, and check the weather before leaving. In winter, plan carefully around available daylight.

Take a map and compass and know how to use them rather than depending solely on a phone. Leave your route and expected return time with someone. Check the latest local path information and transport before setting out. The transport guide explains how rail, roads and line 122 fit into an independent plan.

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