Ancient Britain’s award winning full day guided tour transports you back 1900 years to a time when Hadrian’s Wall was occupied by the Romans and home to the Celts.
Your local guide, dressed in authentic costume of the era, weave a narrative from both sides of the wall, the tales of the native Britons and the stories told by the occupying forces. Roman history comes to life when you discover just what Britain was like under the Roman Emperors.
Rural Northumberland provides a magnificent backdrop for this guided tour as we invite you to explore the hidden archaeological gems of Hadrian’s Wall, showing you our favourite sections of this breath-taking world heritage site.
After your ‘march’ it is time for a well-earned rest with a lunch break followed by a visiting, two of the finest museums on Hadrian’s Wall. This bestselling guided tour truly is the complete Hadrian’s Wall experience.
- Full day guided tour (approx. 7 hours)
- Visit Hadrian’s Wall Vindolanda and Housesteads – Site entry included within the tour price
- Time for lunch is included in this tour at Vindolanda cafe – lunch is not included in tour price
- Start point is Cawfields, you can follow in your vehicle 4 miles to Vindolanda and 2 miles Housesteads – transport is not included, let us know if you require taxi details.
On this tour you will visit the following site of historic importance.
Cawfields is a fantastic place to start your tour. You can see some of the best, preserved sections of the 1900 year old, Hadrian’s Wall, a Milecastle, and one of the best sections of the Vallum – the defence ditch, south of the wall. Cawfields also has some of the best views of Northumberland and the North Pennines. Here you will discover the purpose of the Wall the reason it is here, which countries the soldiers came from, who the civilians were and much, much more…
Vindolanda is the home of Britain’s ‘Top Treasure’ – the Vindolanda Writing Tablets. With live excavations taking place every year, it is one of Europe’s most important archaeological sites. In addition to a Roman fort the archaeologists have also excavated the ‘vicus’ (civilian village) outside the fort. The museum is one of the best in Europe with an astounding collection of organic materials such as textiles, jewellery and leather shoes. It is quite right that the writing tablets take pride of place. These thin, slivers of wood are the personal and military correspondence of the people that lived here nearly 2000 years ago. The writing tablets offer unique insight into what life like for soldiers and civilians living on Hadrian’s Wall.
Housesteads is set high on a dramatic escarpment of Hadrian’s Wall World Heritage Site. There are stunning panoramic views to enjoy from this ancient fortress, making it a fantastic location to visit. Built into Hadrian’s Wall and on top of the Whin Sill – a 295 million year old lava flow. You will be astounded at the determination of the Roman Empire. Added to this the Roman latrine at this fort is the best example you will see in Britain, with 24 seats there is plenty of space!
Tour information:
- £95 per person plus booking fee – Children receive 25% discount click the book on line button
- A Full day guided tour, in English, short walks with lots of information. Starting from Cawfields, Near Haltwhistle, Northumberland, click link for direction
- Admission into 2 of the following museums: Vindolanda, The Roman Army Museum, Housesteads
- Time for lunch is included in this tour – lunch is not included in the tour price
- Leisurely Walk: A walk of 1.5 miles for reasonably active people with a small amount of experience, on rural paths. Outdoor footwear and warm, waterproof clothing are recommended
- Times: The tour runs throughout the year. Start time is 10:00am and finish time around 4:30pm. Booking is essential
- Car parking available at each location bank cards and coins are accepted
- Start point is Cawfields, you can follow in your vehicle 4 miles to Vindolanda and 2 miles to Housesteads – transport is not included, let us know if you require taxi details.
- Toilet facilities available at the start location and at each venue throughout the tour
- Group and family discount available
- A half day tour and a two hour tour is on offer for those with less time
- Tours in English
- Small groups
- Your guide will be dressed in authentic clothing for this tour. We do, however, reserve the right to wear modern clothing if the weather causes concern for health and safety.
- Terms & Conditions
£95.00 per person
plus booking fee
Private and bespoke tours are available.
Get in touch on 01434 688386 or email kevin@ancientbritain.org
