Hadrian's Wall Offers More Than a Roman Stronghold

When one thinks of charming and tranquil Northern England, it is difficult to imagine that in its past, it was actually a portion of the mighty Roman Empire. When the Romans invaded Britain, they moved up as far as southern Scotland and they fixed a frontier there. But they soon gave up that Scottish frontier, and made up their frontier in Northumberland. Then in 122 A.D. the Roman Emperor Hadrian (AD 76-138) visited Britain, and he ordered that the great wall must be built. The main purpose of the Roman wall was for defence. Historians believe the gates through the wall may have served as customs posts to allow trade. The wall stretched from the town of Wallsend, which is closer to the east coast of England and continued right across the country to the west.

Parts of the wall are missing with some portions buried under the city of Newcastle and other portions under roads along the route. You may have heard of all about Hadrian's Wall from history class. Did you know you can actually experience history first hand along the 84 mile trail of the ancient wall by either hiking or cycling? What an enlightening experience to visit the wall which afterwards will only confirm the how vast the Roman Empire was through your own eyes. Considerable segments of the wall still remain intact though and you can easily plan this expedition. Hadrian's Wall can be viewed by touring on foot along the Hadrian's Wall Path or by a bicycle on National Cycle Route 72. To do so will only be the highlight of your visit to Northern England.

For hikers, one of the most scenic walks along the Hadrian's Wall's Path begins in the city of Newcastle-Upon-Tyne. Your journey should continue on through the countryside of Northumberland are filled with rolling hills and tranquil valleys. You can follow through to Cumbria, the known Lake District and finishing at the river's mouth at Solway Firth. Not forgetting of course that you will be walking through some of the most beautiful scenery that England has to offer, a camera is mandatory. Do not miss the opportunity to capture those once in a lifetime breathtaking picture perfect moments. For cyclists, get close with nature and begin your journey of discovery with a picturesque endurance tour that you will never acquire elsewhere.

You can begin a coast to coast "The Roman Way" cycle ride from Ravenglass to South Shields or vice a versa. The National Cycle Route 72 is no straight run so be prepared with gradual inclines along the route. The highest inclines occur at Halfwhistles summit at a height of 200 meters and then prior to arriving at Newbrough, you will hit 256 meters. Plan your hike or bike tour early in the day as Hadrian's Wall is one of the most popular tourist attractions in Northern England during the temperate climate months. The entire wall region is periodically dotted with forts, castles and turrets as well as museums, so it will have something of interest for everyone. Visitor centres are located throughout the region and offer a wealth of resources for planning your adventure, whether you decide to walk or cycle. Hadrian's Wall aka the Roman Wall was recognized as an important component of world history and was made a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1987.

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