Hexham Roman History and Scenic Tour

Step into the world of the Romans on this relaxed, private tour by car—perfect for curious travelers who want to explore without a long hike. Travel along the ancient Stanegate Road, discover rare Roman milestones like the Chesterholm stone, and hear the stories behind the Vindolanda tablets and 1,800-year-old quarry graffiti. Along the way, we’ll visit the mysterious Mithraic Temple, walk the only stretch of Hadrian’s Wall where you are permitted to walk atop it, and learn how antiquarian John Clayton helped preserve this remarkable frontier. You'll also stop at a 19th-century lime kiln and uncover tales of the Border Reivers, all from the comfort of our vehicle with short, easy walks at each site. We finish with a warm drink from a favourite local coffee van—because history’s best enjoyed with good craic and great company.

Meeting Point

The Sill: National Landscape Discovery Centre

Once Brewed, Hexham NE47 7AN, UK

We will meet in front of the Sill next to the picnic benches. I'll be easy to spot in a tutu!

What's included:

• Digital photos & videos of your experience
• Walking Poles
• Bespoke map commemorating your experience.

Not included:

• Gratuities

What to expect:

Duration: between 2 hours and 3 hours

The Sill: National Landscape Discovery Centre

National Landscape Discovery Centre Military Road, Bardon Mill, NE47 7AN

We’ll visit the Sycamore Gap: Coming Home exhibition, spend time exploring the current displays in the revolving gallery, and browse the gift shop for unique finds and local souvenirs.

15 minutes

Housesteads Roman Fort - Hadrian's Wall

Haydon Bridge, NE47 6NN

We’ll take a short walk up to Housesteads and explore its remarkable setting. Along the way, you’ll hear about the fort’s fascinating history, the story behind Britain’s best-preserved Roman toilets, and how the site was later tied to the turbulent days of the Border Reivers. Please note: we do not enter the fort.

30 minutes

Hadrian's Wall

Hexham NE47 7AW, UK

At Housesteads, you’ll have the chance to walk along the top of Hadrian’s Wall—the only section where it’s officially allowed—offering stunning views and a true sense of the Roman frontier. You’ll also hear about John Clayton, the 19th-century antiquarian whose tireless efforts saved large parts of the Wall from ruin.

30 minutes

Brocolitia Roman Fort - Hadrian's Wall

Newbrough, Hexham NE46 4DB, UK

We'll grab a drink from the Corbridge Coffee Van and head over to the Mithraic Roman Temple, where we'll chat about this mysterious and secretive religion.

30 minutes

Crindledykes limekiln

XMW4+V6, Westend Town, Hexham NE47 7AF, UK

We'll visit a rare 19th-century lime kiln. Unique in Northumberland, it’s the only kiln with four draw arches fed by a single pot—partially blocked in the 1900s and later restored. A quiet yet striking glimpse into the area’s rural industrial past.

15 minutes

Vindolanda

Hadrian's Wall, Chesterholm Museum, Bardon Mill, Hexham, NE47 7JN

As we head towards Vindolanda, you’ll hear fascinating stories about the landscape’s rich past—from the ancient Stanegate Road and the hidden history of Causeway House to the remarkable Vindolanda tablets, Barcombe Longstone, and the nearby Roman quarry etched with 1,800-year-old graffiti. We’ll stop to see rare Roman milestones still in place, including the Chesterholm milestone—a chance to quite literally wrap your arms around history.
Please note: this tour does not include entry to Vindolanda Fort.

30 minutes