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Discover Hadrian's Wall (Self-Guided)

The Hadrian’s Wall Path, an 84-mile (135 km) National Trail, spans the width of northern England, extending from Wallsend in the east to Bowness-on-Solway in Cumbria on the west coast.

  • England

  • 7 nights
  • Bed and Breakfast
  • Long Distance Paths

    Landscape

  • April - October

Challenging

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Walking grade

Grade 6

Full day walks with appreciable amounts of ascent and descent and longer distances covered.  Whilst you will be mainly on paths, these may be rough, steep, and loose at times. We take the whole day to enjoy some fabulous walks.  

Usual daily walks - Distance: 8 miles; Ascent/Descent 850m; Terrain: sometimes rough, loose or steep sections; Walking Time: 8hrs / Full Day walks.

The above statistics are generalisations of a day’s key walk, it does not include distance covered during general sightseeing or daily activity. Detailed information of the daily walking requirements are specified in the specific holidays ‘Daily Itinerary".

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Self-Guided Collection

Expertly planned, flexible walking itineraries, led by you, with accommodation, route plans, and luggage transfers all taken care of by us.

Overview

Holiday Highlights

  • Discover the diverse scenery of northern England, transitioning from the dynamic, urban landscapes of Newcastle Upon Tyne to the medieval Carlisle adorned in red sandstone, and finally, to the tranquil setting of Bowness on Solway.
  • Embark on an exploration of the windswept, rugged elevations of Highshields Crags within Northumberland National Park, juxtaposed with the verdant, pastoral beauty of the Eden Valley.
  • Uncover the rich history of the northern region while strolling alongside this iconic monument.
  • Indulge in the warmth of hospitality offered by charming country B&Bs, each infused with distinct personality and local charm.

The Hadrian’s Wall Path, an 84-mile (135 km) National Trail, spans the width of northern England, extending from Wallsend in the east to Bowness-on-Solway in Cumbria on the west coast. This National Trail faithfully traces the course of the Hadrian’s Wall UNESCO World Heritage Site, guiding travellers through some of England's most stunning landscapes—from picturesque rolling fields and rugged borderlands to the lively cities of Newcastle and Carlisle. Along the journey, numerous captivating museums enrich the cultural experience.


  • Seven nights accommodation on a bed and breakfast basis.
  • One piece of luggage per person transferred between accommodations, not exceeding 20kg.
  • Detailed route descriptions (digital and printed at 1st accommodation).
  • 24-hour telephone assistance.
  • Routes in digital format (.gpx) for GPS or mobile devices.
  • Dinner, lunch and drinks.
  • Travel to the start and from the end point of the trip.
  • Admission fees.
  • Personal expenses such as laundry and phone calls.
  • Unscheduled transfers required during the trip.

Holiday Information

Click the button below for a detailed Holiday Information Sheet containing all the particulars about this trip.

NOTE: Itineraries and Holiday Information Sheets can vary by a specific date chosen

View Holiday Information Sheet

Tour Codes

60110

Itinerary & Travel

Itinerary Details

Whilst every effort will be made to adhere to the outlined itinerary and advertised programme, local conditions can change due to weather or other unforeseen circumstances. This may mean that routes and timings need to be amended or the order of days may change, sometimes at short notice.

Your Itinerary

Day 1

Arrival in Whitley Bay

Accommodation

Travel to Newcastle and continue your journey to Whitley Bay. Enjoy a leisurely break to explore St Mary's Island, Lighthouse, and Visitor Centre, where you can take in breath-taking coastal views and stretch your legs.

Day 2

Wallsend to Heddon

Meals

Breakfast

Accommodation

  • Time

    7 hours

  • Distance

    15 miles

  • Ascent/Descent

    191/83m

Start with a brief train journey to Wallsend, marking the commencement of your Hadrian's Wall walk. If time allows before starting your adventure, closely examine the remnants of the Roman fort of Segedunum, signifying the starting point of today's route.

Proceed from Wallsend along the old Tyne to Blyth railway line. As you approach downtown Newcastle upon Tyne's riverside area, you'll be treated to panoramic views of elegant bridges and the St. Nicholas Cathedral. Once beyond Newcastle, the landscape begins to unfold, revealing the scenic countryside of Northumberland County.

Shortly before reaching the River Tyne crossing, veer off towards Wylam, where you'll find our overnight accommodations at the conclusion of this relatively flat day.

Day 3

Heddon to Wall

Meals

Breakfast

Accommodation

  • Time

    7.5 hours

  • Distance

    16.4 miles

  • Ascent/Descent

    142/209m

Upon traversing the River Tyne, brace yourself for the initial steep climb to Heddon on the Wall, where remnants of the wall await exploration. Moving forward, the National Trail aligns with the roads that now overlay segments of the wall, extending beyond Chollerford. The wall, repurposed for General Wade's military road foundations, sees the trail often shadowing the Vallum, the ancient defensive ditch created during the wall's construction. Keep an eye out for the Vindobala fort remains and the reservoirs near Welton.

Approximately 6 miles into your journey, you'll encounter a pub at East Wallhouses. Consider a slight detour to Halton after covering 9 miles to appreciate the antiquity of the old keep.

Day 4

Wall to Housesteads

Meals

Breakfast

Accommodation

  • Time

    5.5 hours

  • Distance

    12 miles

  • Ascent/Descent

    249/89m

The path runs alongside the road until Fozy Moss, where the road diverges from the wall upon reaching the crags of the Whin Sill Escarpment. This leg of the journey undulates to Housesteads, renowned for its fort and the National Trust Museum. Enjoy breath taking views of the "Northward Tynescape" extending to the Bellingham and Simonside Hills. You are now traversing what is arguably the most picturesque stretch of the trip, spanning Highshield Crags and descending via Peel Crags to Steel Rigg. From this point, you have the option to walk to Once Brewed and the nearby Twice Brewed.

Day 5

Housesteads to Lanercost

Meals

Breakfast

Accommodation

  • Time

    7/8 hours

  • Distance

    14/16 miles

  • Ascent/Descent

    204/352m

From this point, traces of Hadrian's Wall become scarce. The wall ascends to its peak at Windshields Crags before descending to the charmingly named Bogle Hole. It then descends through steps at Thorny Doors, ascends Cawfields Crags with splendid views of the Pennines. The path leads past Great Chesters and Magnis (Roman forts), continuing through Greenhead, the remains of medieval Thirlwall Castle, and, in about another mile, crosses the Cumbria/Northumberland border at Gilsand on the River Irthing.

Explore intriguing Roman defences at Birdoswald, and after a trek to Banks, you might find a shop/post office open for refreshments. Banks offers panoramic views of the Irthing Valley and Lanercost Priory below. Appreciate the last substantial portion of the wall maintained by English Heritage at Hare Hill before the path gently descends to Garthside. Enjoy captivating views over the Irthing Valley as the walk progresses into Walton, characterized by easy walking along field edges and beside well-established hardwood trees.

Approaching Walton, the path descends into the valley, crossing King Water. A brief stretch of road guides the walk into the village of Walton, a quaint settlement featuring an interesting church in the centre next to the village green.

Day 6

Lanercost to Carlisle

Meals

Breakfast

Accommodation

  • Time

    5/6 hours

  • Distance

    14.6/11 miles

  • Ascent/Descent

    32/94m

The journey continues with rolling terrain through the countryside. After crossing the picturesque Cam beck, you briefly follow the road near Newtown Village, adjacent to the green, before traversing fields. Along this stretch, you'll be tracing the wall line, passing through Old Wall, Blea Head, and Wallhead farms. A slight detour onto a quaint "sandy lane" guides you to The Stanegate, the ancient Roman road leading into Crosby on Eden alongside the River Eden, offering about a mile of riverside walking.

In Linstock, you'll encounter a medieval 'pele,' or Peel Tower, historically used to alert locals in times of danger for congregating within its fortifications. Moving forward, you reach Rickerby, featuring a Victorian folly tower in contrast to the medieval structure. After crossing the River Eden, the path meanders towards Stanwix and ascends into Carlisle—an intriguing historical city boasting a castle initiated by Henry I, expansive walls, Roman remnants, and a cathedral. Carlisle, with a history of changing hands between Scotland and England, displays this influence in parts of its architectural layout. Although smaller than Newcastle, Carlisle showcases notable buildings, including the castle and the Old Town Hall, constructed from fine red sandstone. Beer enthusiasts should not miss Theakstone's Brewery, and a visit to the Tullie House Museum offers a fine collection of Roman artefacts. The inner city has been pedestrianized, enhancing the enjoyment of exploration around the market square.

Day 7

Carlisle to Bowness

Meals

Breakfast

Accommodation

  • Time

    6.5 hours

  • Distance

    14.2 miles

  • Ascent/Descent

    39/38m

Departing from Carlisle, follow the southern bank of the River Eden. The trail roughly aligns with the Wall and Vallum, tracing through Grinsdale and Beaumont until eventually diverging from the Eden's course. Just north of the village, enjoy panoramic views of Skiddaw and High Pike to the south, extending across the Solway Firth to the West.

Continue through Burgh by Sands, where a brief detour leads to the marshy spot where Edward I passed away in 1307. Near Dykesfield House, the trail intersects with an old railway embankment for a few miles before rejoining the path of "The Wall" near Glasson. From this point, the route follows a minor road to Bowness on Solway, marking the site of the Roman fort of Maia and the conclusion of your journey.

Consider taking a bus or taxi back to Carlisle to commemorate the completion of the Hadrian’s Wall Path.

Day 8

Final day

Meals

Breakfast

After breakfast the tour finishes. 

Travel Details

You can get to Whitley Bay by train (from Newcastle Station), bus or car. You can use the main line from any of the airports. 

At the end, Carlisle has a mainline railway station from where you can easily reach Newcastle, Glasgow, Edinburgh, and Manchester Airports or all the way direct to Birmingham and London.

Accommodation

Accommodation information

Below is an example of the type of accommodation you will be allocated on this holiday. Your final accommodation list will be confirmed on your travel documents, these will usually be with you around two weeks prior to departure.

The Metropolitan Guest House or similar

Located just 150 meters from Whitley Bay's sandy beaches, this is a four star bed and breakfast offering contemporary accommodation. The hotel is conveniently located just 5 minutes walk from the town centre and metro rail station. Rooms are equipped with ensuite facilities , free Wi-Fi, luxury toiletries and a TV with DVD player. 

Wormald House or similar

Sitting quietly on the Tyne, Wormald House is a Wylam B&B offering guests a truly friendly welcome. They offer packed lunches for you to take with you for your days walking. Rooms are comfortable and equipped with en suite facilities, toiletries, TV, dressing table and tea/coffee making facilities. 

George Hotel or similar

The three-star George Hotel in Chollerford is a comfortable base.  The hotel bedrooms are split over two floors and there is no lift in the hotel. Bedrooms are basic but have everything you need to have a comfortable stay. All rooms have a TV, safe and tea & coffee making facilities. 

The hotel's on site restaurant is where your breakfasts will be taken. Local produce is used as much as possible. 


Twice Brewed Inn or similar

This family run hotel has 14 bedrooms and en-suite facilities are available, fresh breakfasts are served between 7:30 and 9:30 am and has its own bar/ restaurant for evening meals.

Greenaces B&B or similar

The accommodation comprises of an annex which provides you with your own living room, twin bedroom and compact en-suite bathroom. The patio doors allow access to a table and chairs with a view looking over to the fells of the Lake District. Tea and coffee facilities are included and there is a television in the living room.

Abbey Court Guesthouse or similar

Abbey Court is a family run guest house that has a special warm and welcoming atmosphere. Bedrooms are equipped with ensuite facilities, smart TV, seating area, refreshments tray and fridge.

Trip Information

All the details you need

Holiday Grade

The Hadrian’s Wall Path is an 84 mile (135 km) long National Trail stretching coast to coast across northern England, from Wallsend, Newcastle upon Tyne in the east to Bowness-on-Solway in Cumbria on the west coast. The walks on the tour although long can be relatively flat, with a maximum ascent/descent of 352m. The average mileage per day is longer than a usual Grade 6 tour however the ascents/descents make this within grade. 

Full day walks with appreciable amounts of ascent and descent and longer distances covered.  Whilst you will be mainly on paths, these may be rough, steep, and loose at times. We take the whole day to enjoy some fabulous walks.  

Usual daily walks - Distance: 8 miles; Ascent/Descent 850m; Terrain: sometimes rough, loose or steep sections; Walking Time: 8hrs / Full Day walks.

The above statistics are generalisations of a day’s key walk, it does not include distance covered during general sightseeing or daily activity. Detailed information of the daily walking requirements are specified in the specific holidays ‘Daily Itinerary".

Spending Money

Holiday Budgeting

As you plan your holiday budget, it's essential to account for expenses such as drinks, meals not covered in the holiday price, entrance fees not included, optional local excursions, and any souvenirs or additional services like laundry. For a rough estimate, budgeting around £10-£20 per person per day for lunches and drinks is a helpful guideline.

If your holiday does not include dinners (see itinerary) we recommend budgeting an additional £25-30 per day.

Tipping

Tips are not included in the holiday price. Although entirely at your own discretion, tipping is an important aspect of tourism and hospitality life and expectations are fairly high.  We strongly recommend when receiving good service you make a tip to the local supplier.

Your Travel Details

You can get to Whitley Bay by train (from Newcastle Station), bus or car. You can use the main line from any of the airports. 

At the end, Carlisle has a mainline railway station from where you can easily reach Newcastle, Glasgow, Edinburgh, and Manchester Airports or all the way direct to Birmingham and London.

Personal Details Check

To ensure the accurate administration of your holiday arrangements, kindly verify that the personal details we have for you are current and correct. Confirm that you've given us all the necessary information for securing your travel and accommodation. Please review your passport details, date of birth, and any other pertinent information crucial for the management of your holiday.

Additionally, please make us aware of any dietary allergies or intolerances you may have. Your well-being is important to us, and this information will help us make appropriate arrangements for your meals during the trip.

You can access and update the provided information or add missing details through the "Manage My Booking" feature on our website at www.rambleworldwide.co.uk. Alternatively, reach out to our Sales and Reservations team at +44 (0)1707 331133. Upon receiving your booking confirmation, promptly check the details. Your cooperation ensures a seamless and enjoyable holiday experience.

Documentation

After booking your holiday, expect to receive a confirmation and holiday information sheet soon after.

Once you've settled your balance, about 2 weeks before your holiday, you'll get instructions on how to log into your ActiveNav or GUIBO App. Grab your Apple or Android smartphone and head to the app store for a quick download. Once installed, the app grants you access to all route information and provides guidance on how to navigate it.

Around 2 weeks prior to your departure, you'll also get a destination manual & road book. This comprehensive guide includes detailed information on your walking route and interesting facts about the areas you'll stay in. Alongside, a trip voucher will confirm all the services booked for you, complete with the names and addresses of your hotels and other service providers. Be prepared to present this voucher as confirmation at your accommodations, and don't forget to bring along a valid form of ID.

Meals

In general all of our self-guided holidays are on a bed and breakfast basis with breakfast provided at your accommodation. Depending on the route you are walking and access to local services such as restaurants, cafes and supermarkets, your itinerary may include packed lunches, dinners or a mix of both. Please refer to the individual itinerary and what is included for accurate information.

Footwear & Kit List

Footwear

Footwear is a walker’s personal choice; however, we suggest lightweight waterproof walking boots with a good, moulded sole (such as Vibram or similar) and a deep tread and which provide ankle support and may be essential for some walks.

Luggage Transfers

On a self guided holiday, the days you walk from one property to another, your main luggage will be transferred for you as part of your holiday arrangements. This leaves you free to just carry what you need for the day. Please refer to your individual itinerary for which days your luggage will be transferred. Before you leave your accommodation in the morning, please speak with your host for where the luggage should be left and by what time. 

General Kit List

Outdoor activities are always safer and more enjoyable if you are prepared.

If you have not travelled with us before the following list might be of use:

  • Day sack (this should be able to carry all you would need for the day's activity)
  • Day sack liner
  • Waterproof jacket (Goretex or similar) and trousers
  • Compass
  • Map case
  • Whistle
  • Lightweight quick-drying trousers
  • Walking T-shirt/shirts
  • Walking socks
  • Fleece or jumper
  • Sun hat, sunglasses, lip salve and sun block
  • Warm hat and gloves (if appropriate)
  • Water bottle - at least 2 litre capacity (more may be required)
  • Basic first aid kit
  • Lunchbox
  • Walking poles (should you find them useful)
  • Sit mat
  • Mobile
  • Power Bank for charging mobile if needed.
  • Phone charging lead

This list is not exhaustive, and every walker is different and may have their own preference.

Travel Documents Checklist

Documents and Information to take with you:

  • Holiday money
  • Credit or debit cards (and separate details of who to call if lost)
  • Car parking ticket and car park directions (if prebooked)
  • Coach or rail travel tickets (if prebooked)
  • Holiday booking confirmation document
  • Travel insurance details (if applicable)
  • Details of any medical condition or allergy your holiday leader should know about

Water To Go

Opting for filtered water from a reusable bottle with its built-in water filter, like the Water-to-go bottle available at www.watertogo.eu, is a sustainable alternative to single-use sealed water bottles. Simply refill it from any water source and contribute to saving the environment from disposable plastic bottles.

Exciting news: Water-to-go has introduced two new bottles to their collection. The Active bottle is designed to fit bike water bottle holders, and the Sugarcane bottle is an even more planet-friendly option. Crafted from fibrous cane, a by-product of liquid extraction, it undergoes a process to create plant-based plastic. Explore the details on the Water-to-Go website for this innovative new range.

As a token of appreciation for your commitment to the environment, we've secured an exclusive 15% discount with Water-to-Go for you. Visit www.watertogo.eu and use the code RWH17 during your order.                        

Note: If you're booked on a long-haul holiday, you'll receive a complimentary Water to Go bottle, sent to your home address 2 or 3 weeks before your holiday. Thank you for being a part of our sustainable journey!

Maps, Guidebooks & Other Information

Weather

Visit the following websites for an idea of the climate in your destination:

Staying Healthy On Holiday

Health requirements in destination can change, and it's crucial for you to take responsibility in staying informed. Ensure that you consult a professionally qualified source and comply with any health requirements at least 6 to 8 weeks before your departure. Your GP can provide advice on vaccinations. Stay proactive about your health preparations to ensure a safe and enjoyable travel experience.

Health Advice for United Kingdom

No compulsory immunisations are required for holidays in the UK although you should be up to date with the usual immunisations recommended for life in Britain. Tetanus immunisation is recommended.

Further Travel Advice

For further advice please visit:

You might wish to take a small bottle of antibacterial hand gel with you for times when you're unable to wash your hands.

Travel Insurance

It’s a condition of booking that you obtain adequate travel insurance, from a reputable provider, to undertake the holiday, including UK trips chiefly due to the cancellation element of cover.

The policy must cover the period from the date of booking to the last day of your trip and should include, as a minimum, cover for: medical expenses (including the consequences of a Covid positive test result), mountain rescue including helicopter rescue, death, repatriation, cancellation and curtailment and shall not have exclusion clauses limiting cover for the activities you will partake in on your trip, including altitudes reached in the holiday arrangement. It is your responsibility to check that your policy is adequate for the nature and destination of the holiday booked.

Once you have obtained your travel insurance, please provide us with the name of your travel insurer, the policy number and the insurer’s 24 hour emergency assistance number.

In the event that you fail to obtain suitable Travel Insurance we shall not be liable for any costs incurred or claims made against us due to your failure to comply with this term.

If travelling outside the UK you must carry proof of insurance with you and produce it if reasonably requested to do so by RWH Travel staff, tour leaders or suppliers. No refunds will be made should you be excluded from the walking programme through being uninsured or you being unable to demonstrate that you are insured.

Our house broker MPI should be considered for whom we are an affiliate and contact information is on our website and will be referred to in your booking confirmation.

If you are travelling to an EU country or Switzerland please also ensure that you have either an existing valid EU EHIC card (European Health Insurance Card) or a valid UK GHIC (Global Health Insurance Card). You can apply for a UK GHIC free of charge on the NHS website at https://services.nhsbsa.nhs.uk/cra/start.


Personal Safety

The UK Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office is your go-to for the latest info on security, local laws, and the nitty-gritty of passports and visas at www.gov.uk/travelaware. Make sure to take a quick peek at the current advice for your upcoming destination—it'll only take a few minutes.

When you're out and about, stay aware of your surroundings. Take smart precautions with your credit cards and passport, and maybe tone down the flashy accessories. Less is more, especially when it comes to carrying cash—just enough for the day will do. Consider using a money belt for that extra layer of security. Stay alert, stay safe, and make the most of your travels!

Cultural Awareness

The Ramble Worldwide Outdoor Trust

Unlike many other tour operators, we take pride in our unique approach. Ramble Worldwide channels its surplus profits back into various outdoor, walking-related, or environmental conservation projects in the UK through our own trust. When you choose us, you contribute to this impactful initiative.

The Ramble Worldwide Outdoor Trust is passionate about making the outdoors more accessible for more people from all communities. We grant funds to many organisations and have recently partnered with Mind Over Mountains, Adaptive Grand Slam, and other groups to create an enduring impact on people’s lives and to support them to enjoy the outdoors. In addition, the Trust makes many small grants to local organisations such as Ramblers Groups, Walkers are Welcome, My kind of Books and recently provided a small grant, via his scouting group, to enable a young man whose family had fallen on hard times to complete his DofE Gold award.

Patron of the Trust is the renowned explorer, Mark Wood. Over 20 years Mark has undertaken expeditions to some of the most remote parts of our planet. Our shared values make for an exciting partnership, and we believe that by standing shoulder to shoulder we can encourage people from all communities to enjoy being active outdoors in whatever way suits them best.

For more comprehensive details, please visit the 'About' section on our website and click on the Charitable Trust link. Your choice to travel with us goes beyond a memorable vacation; it contributes to meaningful projects that have a positive impact on our community and environment.

Heart and Sole

We appreciate that we are in a fortunate position to be able to use our profits to help make a difference to people's lives. Heart & Sole is a venture managed by our office staff, whose aim is to reach the heart of the communities in the countries we visit. Through Heart & Sole, we hope to make more of a long term, direct impact to these communities, particularly in less developed countries where even a small amount goes a long way. See our website for more information and details of some of the projects we support.

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