Roman Britain: Hadrian's Wall & Chesters Fort
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Port
Newcastle upon Tyne, England, United Kingdom
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Activity Level
Moderate Activity
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Excursion Type
All
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Wheelchair Accessible
No
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Starting At (prices in USD)
$130
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Minimum Age
Information Not Currently Available
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Duration
Approximately 4½ Hours
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Meals Included
Meals not included
"The ‘Roman Limes’ represents the border line of the Roman Empire at its greatest extent in the 2nd century AD. The 118-km-long Hadrian’s Wall (UK) was built on the orders of the Emperor Hadrian c. AD
122. It is a striking example of the organization of a military zone and illustrates the defensive techniques and geopolitical strategies of ancient Rome."
Hadrian's Wall is the most important monument built by the Romans in Britain. It is the best-known frontier in the entire Roman Empire. Spanning nearly 2,000 years of history, and crossing 73 miles of wild landscapes, towns and cities, the wall still pays homage to one of the world's greatest civilizations.
A visit to Hadrian's Wall is a must for anyone visiting the north of England, so you will head into the county of Northumberland today. Here you will visit sections of the wall, which was built by the Romans in about AD 122. Its purpose was to define the northernmost limit of the Roman Empire at the time. It ran from coast to coast, and consisted of a stone wall around 21 feet tall, with a ditch to the north and a bank and ditchwork to the south. Turrets, sentry posts castles and forts were built at regular intervals.
You'll stop at Chesters Roman Fort, where you will listen to an introductory talk from a specialist guide. (S)he will answer all your questions. Chesters was one of many troop bases added to Hadrian's Wall soon after it was built, and today it is the best-preserved example of a Roman cavalry fort in Britain. Historians believe it was occupied for nearly three centuries. The four principal gateways are virtually intact. The entire foundation of the headquarters building is visible, with a courtyard, hall, regimental chapel and strongroom clearly laid out. The military bath house has a changing room, latrines and bathing rooms. You will also see the Roman bridge abutment on the riverbank.
The Chesters Museum is housed within an attractive Edwardian building and enjoys a beautiful riverside setting. It is home to the Clayton Collection, which includes important early archaeological discoveries relating to the central section of Hadrian's Wall.
Re-board the coach for the drive back to Newcastle, stopping to take a photo of Cawfields Roman Fort on the way.
Please note: The walk at the fort is 10 minutes on a gravel path with a steep incline. Wear comfortable walking shoes.