Hadrian's Wall Path

Everyone can of course divide the route themselves and go as far as their motivation and strength allow. The official National Trails site suggests six stages.

1. Bowness-on-Solway – Carlisle

The first stage proceeds leisurely and we can enjoy the beautiful views towards Scotland. Peace is found in the form of birdsong, on the River Eden and in the Solway marshlands. From Maia it goes to Segedunum, from fort to fort. But the landscape in this section is also worth seeing.

2. Carlisle – Walton

The second stage also continues quietly. Just above sea level, the inclines are moderate, the climate pleasant and the moorland alternates with forests. The UNESCO World Heritage Hadrian's Wall lies beside us: walls and ditch.

3. Walton – Steel Rigg

Via Willowford, Gillsland and Greenhead our route starts on the third day. Halfway at Walltown Crags we can see Scotland and in retrospect also our starting point Bowness-on-Solway. There is not much here, wasteland as far as the eye can see. Over two thousand years ago the Romans were here. The great Whin Sill reaches its highest point at Windshields Crags and soon we reach our stage destination Steel Rigg.

4. Steel Rigg – Chollerford

The landscape along this stage lies high, is wild and offers great views. The Roman wall is unmistakable. We take breaks, enjoy the breeze on our face and admire the work of the Romans. At Wall Mile 35 the classic postcard motif can be taken.

5. Chollerford – Heddon-on-the-Wall

This stage has few inclines. We can therefore look out for Hadrian's Wall which lies somewhat hidden on this section. Here an impressive ditch on the north side of the path, there a ridge on the south side – in between is Hadrian's Wall beneath the modern B6318. Parts of the Roman stone can still be seen in the road foundation.

6. Heddon-on-the-Wall – Wallsend

From Heddon-on-the-Wall our last stage leads along Tyneside with its traditional railway industry: located on the River Tyne, the towns impress with their quays, the centre for Baltic arts and the historic bridges. Soon the end destination is reached and we can rest or take a city tour of Newcastle.