Hadrian's Wall Path National Trail

Hadrian's Wall Path National Trail is the long-distance footpath that runs through the World Heritage Site from England's west to east coasts.

The 84 miles between Bowness-on-Solway in Cumbria to Wallsend on Tyneside takes in breathtaking scenary as it passes through rugged moorland, rolling fields and the cityscapes of Carlisle and Newcastle upon Tyne.  

However, the Trail is much more than a walk through stunning landscapes. It is a walk inspired by Britain's greatest Roman monument, Hadrian's Wall.

2013 is the 10th Anniversary of the Hadrian's Wall Path National Trail. To mark this anniversary, take a look at the variety of things to see and do in Hadrian's Wall Country listed on our Celebration page.

Key Trail facts and guidance:

• The Trail is 84 miles (135km) long
• The prevailing wind is west to east, however between June and September winds are fairly light so whether you begin the walk on the Solway Coast in the west or Wallsend in the east shouldn't matter too much
• Experienced walkers can walk the Trail in about 6 days. However, for less experienced people much more time should be allowed. You should also remember to make time to visit the many attractions along Hadrian's Wall like Tullie House Museum & Art Gallery, Birdoswald, the Roman Army Museum, Housesteads, Chesters Roman Fort and Segedunum
• The Hadrian's Wall Path National Trail is clearly marked with the National Trail acorn symbol and waymark arrows
• Help to look after Hadrian's Wall and the Trail for future generations by following the Every Footstep Counts code

Group or Charity Events

If you are organising a group or charity event, please call the Sustainable Access Team at the Hadrian's Wall Trust on +44 (0)1434 609700 for advice and guidance on designing routes to minimise wear and tear. This can also make organising group walks and other events easier and more enjoyable.

Top Tips Check List & Trail Essentials

• Book your accommodation beforehand
• Carry a cheque book - not all of the small accommodation providers accept debit or credit cards
• It is not an easy walk
• Know where you can access public transport and carry the necessary timetables
• In the interests of conserving the Path and ancient monument, the best time to walk the Trail is from May to October
• Carry your mobile phone with you
• Take food that will keep you going but will survive in a rucksack
• Take plenty of water
• Use good footwear and proper clothing

Recommended Publications

Our online shop stocks great publications on walking the Trail like the Essential Companion to Hadrian's Wall Path National Trail and Hadrian's Wall Path

National Trail Summer Passport

As a record of your progress in walking the Trail, you can purchase from our online shop the Hadrian's Wall Path Summer Passport. There are seven stamps to collect between 1st May and 31st October at the following locations:

• The Banks Promenade (Bowness-on-Solway) - available anytime
• The Kings Arms (Bowness-on-Solway) - available during opening hours
• Sands Centre (Carlisle) - available during opening hours
• Birdoswald Roman Fort (near Gilsland) - available during opening hours
• Housesteads Roman Fort (near Bardon Mill) -available anytime
• Chesters Roman Fort (Chollerford) - available during opening hours
• Robin Hood Inn (near Whittledene Reservoir) - available anytime
• Segedunum Roman Fort (Wallsend) - available during opening hours

When you've collected all seven stamps you can purchase separately a Completion Badge and Certificate by mail order from the Hadrian's Wall Trust (see back of Trail Passport for details).

For more information on walking the Hadrian's Wall Path National Trail visit: www.nationaltrail.co.uk/hadrianswall