Hadrian's Wall Path

This massive wall, which stretches for 73 miles in northern England, is one of Britain's most stunning historic structures. Hadrian's Wall was named after the Roman emperor who commissioned its construction (between AD 122 and 128). Its primary intention was to isolate the Romans from the "barbarian" Picts of Scotland. For most of its length it is close to the remains of Hadrian's Wall, the defensive wall built by the Romans on the northern border of their empire. This is now recognised as part of the "Frontiers of the Roman Empire" World Heritage Site. Its 84-mile trail is lined with historic towns, forts, and intriguing museums.

The Hadrian's Wall Path is accessible to anybody who is physically fit, and the path is pretty straightforward. The most challenging segment is the 23-mile (37-kilometer) stretch between Chollerford and Birdoswald, with several brief rises and descents. The path is well-marked, and it's worth thinking whether you'd want to walk it from east to west, in the direction the wall was originally built, or west to east, which is advised for better weather. Because the Trail is delicate and can get muddy in bad weather, the optimum time to hike it is between May and October. The Trail and Hadrian's Wall are quite popular throughout the summer months, especially in July and August.

Location: Acomb Fell Farm House Acomb, Hexham NE46 4RS