Hadrian’s Wall (England) Hiking Adventure

 
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ONLY TWO SPOTS REMAINING!

In AD122, Emperor Hadrian ordered his soldiers based in Britannia to undertake a mammoth task – to build a wall across the breadth of England, from coast to coast, marking the northernmost frontier of the Roman Empire. This 73-mile structure, now known as Hadrian’s Wall, marked not only the border between Roman-occupied areas and the “barbaric” north but was the largest Roman structure ever created and was the first time the Roman Empire created a boundary on its own growth.

Come journey along a genuine walker’s paradise as we hike coast to coast across England along Hadrian’s Wall. Our hike follows the Hadrian’s Wall Path, an 84-mile National Trail that winds through rolling lush countryside, past imposing abandoned forts, by impressive castles and through the vibrant cities of Newcastle and Carlisle. The original Wall exists along much of the route, giving us a constant reminder both of our own effort to walk across the country but also of the rich Roman history of the area.

The walk itself takes place over six days and averages 14 miles per day, which is more than most of us walk in any one setting, much less six days in a row. The walk starts at sea levels, rises in the middle of the country, and then falls gradually back to sea level on the eastern coast. Although most of the route is not hilly, the simple effort of walking 14 miles per day for nearly a week means you should prepare in advance. We do have a support vehicle available and both a local and US guide on the trip.

From our perspective, this trip offers two distinct pleasures. The first is the opportunity to learn about the Roman history of Britannia, which you will experience along the route in the form of the wall, ruins of the many forts, and several museums. Picture yourself reading a novel each night that paints a picture of Roman (or Britannian) life along the Wall, waking up the next morning to experience the area yourself.

The second distinct advantage is the walking itself. It isn’t often one gets to walk across an entire country. The walk itself goes through picturesque scenery but the feeling of accomplishment you will have at the end is something that will stay with you perhaps forever.

Newcastle on the East Coast serves as your rendezvous city. Here you’ll meet your two guides, get acquainted with your tour mates, and prepare for the walk ahead. We start our hike by shuttling across the country to the western shores and hike back east, ending again in Newcastle.

Please realize that while this tour takes place in the UK, we also consider it a “trek”. While we do have van support, most of the trip is composed of walking – regardless of the conditions Mother Nature throws at us. In addition, because the Wall mostly wends through sparsely populated areas, we are extremely limited in our choice of accommodation. Because of this, we limit our tour group to only 16 participants and, while most accommodations are excellent, they do not come with traditional hotel services and we stay one night in a traditional English pub of basic standards.

Join our eight-day Journey along Hadrian’s Wall and immerse yourself in fascinating history and culture while you traverse an incredible landscape. At week’s end, you’ll have walked across England and accomplished something most people will never dream of.

Baggage 

Your baggage allowance for the trip is one main piece of luggage which should be preferably either a backpack or duffle bag, and one small daypack. Try to travel as light as possible. It is best to avoid large solid hardtop suitcases as these cause difficulties on coaches etc. The larger luggage will travel on the vehicle between accommodations and the daypack should be suitable for carrying any additional outer-layer clothing and items you will need on your walk during the day.

Accommodations

Our journey along Hadrian’s Wall offers us the chance to stay in a mix of charming and historical inns, family-run hotels, and comfortable bed and breakfasts. These under-commercialized accommodations offer an intimate setting which allows you the opportunity to immerse yourself in the people, flavor and culture of the region.

Night 1: Hilton Hotel in Newcastle
Night 2: The Angus Hotel in Carlise
Night 3: Abbey Bridge & Lanercost B&B in Lanercost
Night 4: Vallum Lodge & Twice Brewed Inn in Twice Brewed
Night 5: Matfen Hall Hotel & Spa in Chollerford
Night 6: Keelmans Lodge in Heddon-on-the-Wall
Night 7: Hilton Hotel in Newcastle

Trip Photos

View all photos from Hadrian’s Wall

For More Information

See our Hadrian’s Wall Frequently Asked Questions page. 

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"Overall impression: The Warmth of our guides as well as the amazing weather was just what I needed to jump start me for the coming..."

- Marianne S. (Florida Inline Skating Adventure)

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