Hadrian's Wall at Housesteads

What it is and why it matters

The Romans called the fort Vercovicium. It was added as the Wall was redesigned to include forts, and for much of the 3rd and 4th centuries it was garrisoned by the First Cohort of Tungrians. The remains sit on a steep slope looking north from the Whin Sill escarpment. The National Trust owns the site, received in 1930, and English Heritage manages it. A museum explains the lives of the soldiers and their families, with hands-on displays for children.

Visiting practicalities

The fort and museum are an uphill walk from the car park, so allow time and wear good shoes. English Heritage notes the visitor centre is currently closed, with a coffee cart and toilets available in the car park and at the fort. Booking online in advance is cheaper than paying on the day, and tickets are valid all day. The seasonal AD122 bus between Hexham and Haltwhistle stops here. Check the English Heritage website for opening times.

Nearby and combining your visit

The AD122 bus also stops at Chesters Roman Fort, and the HW1 serves Birdoswald, so you can link several Roman sites along the Wall without a car. Hexham and Haltwhistle, at either end of the AD122 route, are the nearest towns with shops and accommodation.

Highlights

• Britain's most complete Roman fort, according to English Heritage
• Stone fort built around AD 124, known to the Romans as Vercovicium
• Stretches of Hadrian's Wall on the Whin Sill escarpment
• Museum on the lives of Roman soldiers and families

Good to know

• Uphill walk from the car park to the fort
• Visitor centre currently closed; coffee cart and toilets on site
• Booking online by midnight the day before is discounted
• AD122 bus links Hexham, Housesteads, Chesters and Haltwhistle

Frequently asked questions