Hadrian's Wall (Day Trip)

Summary

The central part of Hadrian’s Wall is its most dramatic, with stunning views across this history-steeped landscape. We will walk around the outside of the most famous of Hadrian’s Forts – Housesteads – and discuss a little of its history and the ways of the Roman Legions here.

A walk along the ridge beside the historic wall gives breath-taking views of open countryside with opportunities to see the typical birds of this wild habitat and possibly some of the flocks of geese that come to this windswept area for their winter. 

After a rugged walk of around 3-4 hours we will return to Housesteads before heading to Hexham, some 12 miles away, where we hope to see the salmon on their annual struggle up the fast-flowing Tyne to their breeding grounds. The salmon have to negotiate the weir at Hexham bridge, offering wonderful opportunities to see them battling against the current and leaping up the tumbling waters.

Time permitting, we will have a gentle walk alongside the Tyne looking for typical water birds such as Goosander, Grey Heron and perhaps Kingfisher.

The walk along the wall includes several steep up and down sections and a good level of fitness is required. We will cover around 5-6 miles.

• Housesteads Roman Fort and stunning views
• Wild, open-country wildlife
• Leaping salmon battling against flowing waters