Hadrian's Wall & Housesteads Roman Fort

Running the breadth of northern England is the famous Hadrian’s Wall.  Built in the early years of the 2nd century, Hadrian’s Wall was designed to defend the Roman occupied lands in the south from the fierce tribes in the north as well as control trade and immigration between the two.

The wall lies in ruins today, but there is still much for visitors to see.  One of the best preserved forts on the wall is Vercovicium or Housesteads Roman Fort as it is now called.  Despite its ruined state, the fort gives some interesting insight into Roman life in the north, particularly along the wall, and the Roman’s skill in building structures to last. 

Remember, the wall didn’t fall to the “barbarians.”  The Roman Empire left it along with Britain.  The Wall fell to the common man, the farmer who needed stone for his fences, the builder of houses, and those who built new roads.  But thanks to a man named John Clayton who bought much of the land that held the Wall in the 19th century, Hadrian’s Wall still stands in many places.

Housesteads is well worth the visit.  It can be very cold and windy, so bring a coat and hat or hood.  Take a little time to visit the Visitor Center before heading up to the fort.  It will give some foundation for the places and things you’ll be looking at.  And have some fun and enjoy the view.  There’s plenty to see.

Housesteads Roman Fort

The View 

Look into these web sites for more information
English Heritage: Housesteads Roman Fort
Wikipedia: Housesteads Roman Fort

Please do not use any of these pictures without permission.