Hadrian’s Wall – A Raiding Party on Haltwhistle Dene, Walltown Crags, Forts, Milecastles and Roman Altars!
10 people attending
10 places left
A luscious 11 mile romp through Hadrian’s Wall Country. Starting out from Haltwhistle Railway Station, we’ll wend our way up Haltwhistle Dene and across open country, and we’ll use the ancient Vallum defensive ditch to sneak up on the Romans at one of their forts. We’ll then track one of the best preserved and atmospheric stretches of Hadrian’s Wall before following the wall line across to the remains of another Roman Fort, and the only place on the wall where there is a genuine Roman altar still in place. After paying tribute (or just spending a penny), we’ll head on to the drama of a well-preserved Milecastle before tearing ourselves away in retreat for fortification before descending Haltwhistle Dene.
What to bring
Be aware that the walk goes along a hillside exposed to the wind. It will be a few degrees cooler than in Newcastle or Carlisle on the day.
Water: bring at least two litres
Medicines: if you have hay fever, diabetes, minor ailments etc.
Day rucksack: typically 20-30 litres, they are comfortable to wear and allow you to use your arms freely
Boots: waterproof and breathable and designed for hiking. The walk undulates and some of the ground is uneven so trainers without ankle support are not recommended.
Gaiters: recommended for wet weather or boggy conditions
Socks: proper walking socks will keep your feet dry and help prevent blisters
Layered clothing: lets you quickly adapt to changes in the weather and body temperature. Go for a base layer (vest or t-shirt) and a mid layer (a micro fleece or shirt) and in cooler weather add an outer layer (a windproof jacket or thick fleece)
Trousers: ideally no jeans as they become heavy and cold in the rain, breathable fabrics are more comfortable and dry and on warm days shorts are OK
Waterproof jacket: essential when hiking in all but the calmest of weather, breathable fabrics are more comfortable and dry
Gloves: Windproof, or better still, waterproof gloves are the best choice, bring a spare pair if expecting rain
Hat or cap: stay warm in winter and shaded in summer
Sunglasses: for any sunny day, even in winter
Sun cream: can be useful even on cloudy and winter days
Snacks: bring biscuits, energy bars, gels, bananas, chocolate or dried fruit for example and put them somewhere easy to get hold of
Lunch: bring a packed lunch
Food & drink
There is a co-op 5 minutes walk from the meeting place which can supply sandwiches drinks etc.
Be sure to bring a packed lunch and enough water as there will not be any opportunities to buy food and drink until near the very end of the walk.
If people wish, we can return to the very good pub nearby for food.