THIS is the Best Section of Hadrian’s Wall to Walk

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Stretching across northern England, Hadrian’s Wall offers the perfect excuse to history buffs, nature lovers, and avid hikers to go for a walk – long or short. Whether you’re after stunning landscapes or archaeological wonders, there’s something to explore along the best-preserved sections of this UNESCO World Heritage Site. Don’t have the time or inclination to make the full 135-kilometre (84-mile) hike? Then you might be wondering which is the best section of Hadrian’s Wall to walk. Let’s dive into the details (and photos) of the most scenic and interesting stretch of the Roman Wall.

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The best section of Hadrian’s Wall to walk

Broadly speaking, the best section of Hadrian’s Wall to walk is between the towns of Greenhead and Chollerford. This roughly 29-km (18-mi) chunk of Roman Wall traces what is known as The Great Whin Sill. The Sill is a series of hills (technically an igneous intrusion) that have been eroded over millions of years to form natural cliffs.
Building the Wall along the clifftops only added to the Wall’s formidability, and for you it creates fabulous scenery. Along this section of Hadrian’s Wall, the peaks of the Whin Sill provide 360-degree views and showcase the miles of Wall stretching to the east and west.

Another reason that this is the best section of Hadrian’s Wall to walk, are the museums and archaeological sites. The Roman Army Museum, Housesteads Fort, Vindolanda and Chesters Roman Fort and Museum all fall within close proximity of this Wall segment. Not to mention the Wall itself – this is one of the best-preserved tracts of Hadrian’s Wall.

Narrowing it down – Hadrian’s Wall walk best section for day trips

Ok, I hear you. You want a shorter more specific segment. Maybe short enough to be the best section of Hadrian’s Wall to walk on a day trip?

In that case, the central segment between Steel Rigg and Housesteads Roman Fort takes the crown. This stretch, spanning approximately 5-km (3-mi), is a visual feast of rugged landscapes and historical intrigue.

The trail along this section is mostly grass with some stoney steps, stiles and kissing gates. It traces up and down the rolling hills of the Sill for repeated hill climbs. Starting at Steel Rigg Car Park, you’ll ascend to dramatic crags overlooking the Northumberland countryside. As you walk eastward, highlights include the famous Sycamore Gap (home to the stump of the “Robin Hood Tree”) and Crag Lough, a picturesque lake nestled at the base of the Whin Sill.

Continuing on, you’ll arrive at Housesteads Roman Fort, one of the most complete Roman forts along the Wall. With its panoramic views and fascinating ruins, this section is ideal for intermediate walkers who want a balance of historical exploration and breathtaking scenery.

If you’ve got a little more in you and the weather is right, start at Walltown Quarry Country Park and hike through to Housesteads. That’s more than double the distance at about 14-km (8.5-mi). The benefit, is additional sights including Walltown Quarry, Cawfields Quarry and the trig point marking the highest point on the trail.

Best Hadrian’s Wall circular walks

If you don’t have transport for a one-way hike, Hadrian’s Wall offers several brilliant circuit walks. Here are the top picks for the best Hadrian’s Wall circular walks:

If you don’t have transport for a one-way hike, Hadrian’s Wall offers several brilliant circuit walks. Here are the top picks for the best Hadrian’s Wall circular walks:

Chesters Roman Fort and Humshaugh Village Walk

Distance: 4.0-km (2.5-mi)

Elevation Gain: 66-m (217-ft)

This gentle walk takes you through Humshaugh village to Chesters Roman Fort in Chollerford, home to the best-preserved Roman cavalry barracks in Britain. The lush riverside scenery and manageable distance make it perfect for a leisurely outing.

Corbridge Circular Walk

Distance: 9.6-km (6-mi)

Elevation Gain: 100-m (328-ft)

Explore the charming town of Corbridge before looping around to discover remnants of the Roman supply base and medieval Aydon Castle. This circuit combines historical intrigue with pastoral landscapes.

Housesteads, Once Brewed and Vindolanda Circular Walk

Distance: 12-km (7.5-mi)

Elevation Gain: 250-m (82-ft)

Connect three iconic sites: Beginning and ending at The Sill – the UK’s National Landscape Discovery Centre at Once Brewed, this circuit trail takes in Housesteads Fort and the Vindolanda. Expect diverse terrain and countless photo opportunities. Expect steep inclines and some road walking.

Crag Lough and Hadrian’s Wall Circular Walk

Distance: 5.6-km (3.5-mi)

Elevation Gain: 118-m (385-ft)

This loop showcases the stunning Crag Lough in Northumberland National Park, and dramatic cliffside vistas. It’s a moderately challenging walk for those seeking picture-perfect views. More info can be found on AllTrails.

Cawfields Quarry Circular

Distance: 5.5-km (3.5-mi)

Elevation Gain: 68-m (223-ft)

A short but rewarding walk that features the Cawfields Quarry and well-preserved stretches of the Wall. It’s an excellent choice for families or casual walkers. Get route details here.

Sycamore Gap Walk

Distance: 3.2-km (2-mi)

Elevation Gain: 42-m (140-ft)

This short hike leads to the iconic Sycamore Gap. Note: the famous Sycamore was felled by vandals in 2023. The remaining stump is alive and being nurtured by National Trail rangers. This trail is scenic regardless of its absent star. Route information here.

Vindolanda & Hadrian’s Wall

Distance: 9.6-km (6-mi)

Elevation Gain: 161-m (656-ft)

Combine a walk along the Wall with a visit to Vindolanda, a Roman auxiliary fort known for its impressive artefacts and excavations. Download route pdf on Northumberland National Park website.

Thirlwall Castle Walk

Distance: 3.2-km (2-mi)

Elevation Gain: 82-m (530ft)

A quick, easy loop out of Greenhead. Scenery includes the medieval ruins of Thirlwall Castle and sections of the Wall. Find the walking route map and guide here.

Local Transport

If you are planning a one-way hike and need local transport to return to your start point, here are the options.

Taxis

Taxis, not rideshare, are still the dominant mode of transport in this part of England. If you need to get to/from the trail, then you’ll likely take a taxi. However, they are expensive and there are few options. Book in advance where possible. Local taxis operate school runs (instead of buses), so it can be difficult to get one at certain times of the day. Call the day before and arrange a time if you know you’ll need a ride in advance. Yes. Call. Text, maybe… Don’t expect any taxi drivers to use Messenger or Whatsapp.

Bus

The appropriately named AD122 bus, is the main form of public transport along the most popular part of Hadrian’s Wall, between Walltown Quarry and Hexham. This is an efficient and cost-effective way to get between key sites and towns along the best section of Hadrian’s Wall for walking. Unfortunately, the service starts quite late in the morning. If you prefer to get started early, make sure you choose another transport option. See the timetable here.

Whether you’re up for tackling a shorter, multi-day section of Hadrian’s Wall Path or exploring the best section of Hadrian’s Wall to walk on a day trip—I hope you found what you need in this post. The Steel Rigg to Housesteads stretch is unbeatable for its combination of dramatic scenery and ancient history, while shorter circular walks provide plenty of opportunities for casual adventurers. Lace up your boots, pack your rain gear and discover the timeless allure of Hadrian’s Wall—it’s an experience you won’t forget!

Peace, love & inspiring travels,

Madam ZoZo

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