Hadrian's Wall and Housesteads Fort

Hadrian's Wall and Housesteads Fort (English Heritage & National Trust), Hexham, UK
1-90 Years
Paid

Description

Hadrian’s Wall and Housesteads Fort offer a remarkable journey into Roman Britain within the dramatic landscapes of Northumberland National Park. Part of a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Hadrian’s Wall stretches 80 miles across northern England and represents the Roman Empire’s northern frontier. Here, visitors can explore ancient ruins, breathtaking countryside, and one of Britain’s best-preserved Roman forts.

Walk alongside the Wall to Milecastle 37 and Sycamore Gap, taking in sweeping views across the Whin Sill escarpment. Discover Housesteads Roman Fort, home to around 800 Roman soldiers nearly 2,000 years ago, and explore its barracks, village remains, and some of the best-preserved Roman toilets in Britain. Enjoy guided or self-led walks, family-friendly activities, a visitor centre, café with indoor and outdoor seating, and on-site facilities.

Advance online tickets cost £10.00 Adult (£9.00 without donation) and £6.00 Child (£5.40 without donation), with family tickets from £16.00–£26.00. On-the-day tickets are £12.00 Adult (£10.90 without donation) and £7.50 Child (£6.80 without donation), with family options up to £31.50.

Overall, Hadrian’s Wall and Housesteads Fort combine spectacular scenery with nearly 2,000 years of history. It’s an inspiring destination for walkers, history enthusiasts, and families alike. A visit here offers both a powerful glimpse into Roman military life and unforgettable views across the Northumberland countryside.

Features

  • Paid
  • Host birthday parties: No

Features

  • Explore an amazing Roman Fort: Imagine what life was like for the 800 soldiers living and working at Housesteads in the Roman period. The fort's original name was Vercovicium, meaning 'the place of the effective fighters'. At the very edge of their empire, the soldiers were secure and self-sufficient within the fort. The 5-acre fort displays the remains of gateways and a turreted wall: inside are a wealth of clearly traceable buildings, including the commandant’s house, hospital and the famous multi-seater communal loos. Take a journey through time with a tour of the fort. Our knowledgeable volunteer guides lead tours during school holidays.
  • See astonishing views of Hadrian's Wall: Look east from the north wall of the fort, and you will see Hadrian's Wall, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, standing proudly in the rugged Northumberland National Park. The view from Housesteads’ barrack blocks overlooking Hadrian's Wall Country is a sight to behold. No wonder Housesteads became a powerful base for the Roman Army: you really can see for miles!
  • Have some Family Fun: Children can dress up, touch replicas of Roman objects and explore the exhibition and fort with the help of Felix the Roman soldier. Kids can then run wild in five acres of amazing countryside, check out the famous communal toilets; and bring a kite to fly within the ruins of the fort. Play a game of 'I spy' on the edge of the Roman Empire and get stuck into garden games on the grass.
  • Discover magical creatures: Looking for an adventure with your little ones? Uncover English folklore with our Folktale Creature Trails, where children can discover magical creatures from English myths and legends. Meet six unique creatures as you explore the site, and earn a special certificate marking your achievement when you complete the trail. There are some captivating audio stories to enjoy when you get home too.
  • Discover the Visitor Centre: Housesteads is run jointly by English Heritage and the National Trust, and entry is free to members of both organisations. You will find a warm welcome at the National Trust Visitor Centre. It's a great spot for a restorative hot drink or a local homemade snack. There is a fairly strenuous 10 minute walk from the visitor centre up to the museum and fort.

Facilities

  • Parking: The car park is managed by Northumberland National Park. Charges apply to NT members and blue badge holders. Pay on exit.
  • Food & Drinks: Seating inside and out. Gluten-free, vegetarian & vegan options available.
  • Toilets: Includes baby-change in the accessible toilet.

Price

Price: Paid

Price Details

Advance online tickets (With donation / Without donation)

  • Adult: £10.00 / £9.00
  • Child (5–17 years): £6.00 / £5.40
  • Concession: £9.00 / £8.10
  • Family (2 adults, up to 3 children): £26.00 / £23.40
  • Family (1 adult, up to 3 children): £16.00 / £14.40

On the day tickets (With donation / Without donation)

  • Adult: £12.00 / £10.90
  • Child (5–17 years): £7.50 / £6.80
  • Concession: £11.00 / £10.00
  • Family (2 adults, up to 3 children): £31.50 / £28.60
  • Family (1 adult, up to 3 children): £19.50 / £17.70

Pricing URL: https://www.english-heritage.org.uk/visit/places/housesteads-roman-fort-hadrians-wall/prices-and-opening-times/

Birthday Parties

Offer Birthday Parties: No

  • Housesteads Roman Fort: 10:00 - 16:00
  • Hadrian's Wall: Open all day
  • National Trust Visitor Centre: 10:00 - 15:00

Address: Hadrian's Wall and Housesteads Fort (English Heritage & National Trust), Hexham, UK

Post Code: NE47 6NN

Council: Northumberland

County: Northumberland

  • By Car: Car park is owned by Northumberland National Park. Charges are: First 15 minutes - free. Up to three hours - £5.00. Additional time – £2.00 per hour thereafter to a maximum of £10. No overnight parking.
  • By Bus: Hadrian's Wall service (AD122) runs daily, all year round from Hexham to Haltwhistle and return.
  • By Train: Hexham or Haltwhistle connect with bus 

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