Everything you need to know about Hadrian’s Wall

Hadrian’s Wall is one of the most famous Roman sites in Britain.

In recognition of its historical significance, Hadrian’s Wall was designated a World Heritage Site in 1987.

Stretching across a varied landscape from Newcastle upon Tyne in the east to Carlisle in the west, this ancient structure offers a fascinating glimpse into life during Roman times.

As you travel along the Hadrian’s Wall, you can explore forts, milecastles, temples and settlements that bring history to life.

Here’s everything you need to know before you start your Hadrian’s Wall adventure…

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HOW LONG IS HADRIAN’S WALL?

Hadrian’s Wall is 73 miles (80 Roman miles) long, incorporating many features such as an earthwork, ditch, milecastles, forts, turrets and bridges. These collectively formed a formidable defensive barrier.

WHERE IS HADRIAN’S WALL?

This famous Roman site crosses northern England, extending from Carlisle in the west to Newcastle upon Tyne in the east in Wallsend. Hadrian’s Wall crosses a diverse landscape, offering stunning views and various historical landmarks.

WHEN WAS HADRIAN’S WALL BUILT?

Construction of Hadrian’s Wall began in AD 122 at the command of Emperor Hadrian. It likely took at least six years for the Roman army to complete this massive undertaking. Hadrian’s Wall served as the north-west frontier of the Roman Empire for nearly 300 years.

WHO BUILT HADRIAN’S WALL?

Hadrian’s Wall was constructed by the Roman army stationed in Britain. The three legions of regular, trained troops, each consisting of about 5,000 heavily armed infantrymen, provided the main labour force. These legions were supported by auxiliary units and even the British fleet. The construction process was complex and may have started before Hadrian arrived in Britain, with significant changes implemented based on his directives.

WHY WAS HADRIAN’S WALL BUILT?

Hadrian’s Wall was the Roman Empire’s northernmost frontier. It served as a defensive barrier to protect Roman territory from raiding and to control entry into Britain. Additionally, the Wall was a vibrant cultural melting pot where people from Europe, Africa and Asia mingled, introducing diverse communities.

HOW TALL WAS HADRIAN’S WALL?

The stone sections of Hadrian’s Wall were up to 15 feet (4.6 meters) high and 10 Roman feet (3 meters) wide, providing enough space for a walkway and possibly a parapet wall. The turf sections were wider, measuring 20 Roman feet (6 meters).

WHAT DID HADRIAN’S WALL LOOK LIKE?

Strategically built on high ground, Hadrian’s Wall leveraged natural landscape features for defence. Most of the Wall was constructed from stone, with a 30-mile section to the east made from turf. A large ditch ran in front of Hadrian’s Wall, except in areas with natural crags. At each mile, a fortified gate known as a ‘milecastle’ was built, with two additional turrets between each milecastle, ensuring observation points every third of a mile.

WHO MANNED THE WALL?

Hadrian’s Wall was manned by auxiliaries (non-citizen soldiers) who formed infantry and cavalry regiments stationed in the forts along the Wall, such as Chesters, Birdoswald and Housesteads, as well as in the turrets and milecastles. These soldiers were primarily recruited from the northwestern provinces of the Roman Empire, but some came from other regions both inside and outside the Empire. By the 3rd century, large civilian settlements had developed around the forts, inhabited by merchants, veterans and the families of the garrison.

DISCOVER MORE ABOUT HADRIAN’S WALL

To delve deeper into the history and significance of Hadrian’s Wall, consider visiting the various forts, museums and archaeological sites along its path – read our feature here.

Walking the Hadrian’s Wall path provides an immersive experience, allowing you to explore this historic landscape up close and personal.

DISCOVER MORE ABOUT HADRIAN’S WALL

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