Hadrian’s Wall

Jake Gill
Creative Tourist

Spanning 73 miles from coast to coast, Hadrian’s Wall was once the northern frontier of the mighty Roman Empire. Built to guard against the fierce Scottish tribes of the north, this incredible construction has been used as inspiration for the legendary wall of ice in Game of Thrones. The wall remains standing today, and no other World Heritage Site in Europe provides the public with as much access to so many archaeological ruins.

Set amidst the breath-taking beauty of the Northumbrian and Cumbrian landscapes, the wall protected Roman Britain with over 80 milecastles and 17 large forts. However, the wall began to deteriorate and fall into disrepair when the Romans left Britain almost three hundred years later. The best preserved among these forts on the wall is Housesteads Roman Fort, a stronghold situated on a striking escarpment which garrisoned a thousand soldiers. A museum is located on the site and provides an exceptional insight into the ruins of the fort and the lives of its Roman inhabitants.

Another standout location on the wall is Chesters Roman Fort, the most complete Roman cavalry fort in Britain. The Chesters Takeover family trail will transport you back to a time when the Romans ruled Britain – make sure to visit the bath house and steam room that soldiers used almost two thousand years ago!

The wall was a lively and diverse land with market towns, settlements and shrines. Brocolitia Roman Temple offers an insight into the religious lives of the Roman population, and for those who like to witness history in motion, visit the Vindolanda Excavations to see archaeologists uncover amazing fragments of our Roman past.

No visit is complete without tasting some of the delectable dishes from some of the top culinary hotspots along the wall. The Barrasford Arms near Chesters Fort offers traditional Northumbrian classics, and for a delicious home-cooked meal, try the Twice Brewed Inn just off the Military Road.

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What's on near Hadrian’s Wall

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ActivityLiverpool
Old Dock Tours, Liverpool

The Old Dock tour is a treat for younger and older visitors alike, fans of Liverpool’s maritime past, and anybody curious about local history.

£8.50 with concessions
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ComedyManchester
Creatures of the Night Comedy Club

An insanely committed seven-nights-a-week, Creatures of the Night Comedy Club opens its doors (20.30-22.30 typically, though please check) for evening after evening of side-splitting comedy.

from £5.00
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The Comedy Vault

Every Monday night upstairs at Fierce Bar, The Comedy Vault hosts an outrageously funny open-mic night. Come and try your hand or just to watch and laugh.

free entry
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Comedy Balloon

Every Wednesday at Ape & Apple, Manchester’s official underground comedy club, Comedy Balloon’s friendly and warm comedy night takes place.

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Where to go near Hadrian’s Wall

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The Buccaneer

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Coral Island

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Doric Hotel

Previously ranked TripAdvisor’s number 1 family hotel in the UK, Blackpool’s bright and airy Doric Hotel offers breathtaking views of the Irish Sea.

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Cliffs Hotel

A hit with families seeking the all-inclusive treatment, this Baroque-style hotel on the north shore is one of Blackpool’s oldest and most popular.

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The Boulevard Hotel

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Big Blue Hotel

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The Lawton Hotel
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The Lawton

Thanks to its lime green-painted brick frontage, this family-friendly guest house certainly stands out from the crowd in Blackpool.

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The Ruskin

Sitting in the shadow of the town’s famous Blackpool Tower, this established three star hotel is popular for its handy location and family-friendly pricing.

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