Housesteads (Roman name Vercovicium) is the most complete Roman fort in Britain, dramatically perched on the Whin Sill crags along Hadrian's Wall, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Built within a decade of AD 122 when work on the Wall began, it was garrisoned by around 800 infantrymen (the First Cohort of Tungrians) for nearly 300 years, and its headquarters, granaries, hospital and communal latrines survive in remarkable detail. In 2026 it is managed by English Heritage, with a site museum and interactive exhibition, though reaching the fort requires a steep uphill walk from the car park. It is a highlight of any Hadrian's Wall trip, pairing extensive Roman remains with sweeping frontier landscapes.
The best-preserved communal latrines in Roman Britain, complete with the flushing drainage system used by the garrison
The central range of the fort: headquarters (principia), commander's house (praetorium), the pillared granaries (horrea) and a Roman hospital
Cart-wheel ruts worn into the stone at the East Gate — tangible traces of Roman traffic
The site museum's Roman finds — altars, inscriptions, jewellery and weapons — plus an interactive exhibition on frontier life
Panoramic views of Hadrian's Wall snaking along the Whin Sill escarpment across Northumberland National Park
Good to know
SafetyIt is a steep, uneven half-mile (about 0.8 km) uphill walk of 10-15 minutes from the car park to the fort. Wear sturdy shoes and bring layers, and keep to marked paths as there are steep drops behind the fort.
SeasonThe exposed hilltop is windy, wet and cold even in summer, with frequent mist. Waterproof and windproof clothing is essential, and opening hours are reduced in winter, so check before you go.
RulesBooking online is cheaper than paying on the day, and showing an AD122 bus ticket gives 20% off admission. English Heritage and National Trust members enter free, so check your membership.
CautionBuy tickets only from the official English Heritage website and beware third-party resellers charging inflated prices. The car park uses number-plate (ANPR) pay-on-exit, so settle within 48 hours to avoid a penalty charge.
MannersThis is a 1,900-year-old World Heritage monument, so do not climb on the Wall or fort walls or move any stones, and stay on the designated routes. Dogs are welcome on a short lead but must be cleaned up after.
SafetyThe area is remote with no shops nearby and patchy mobile signal. Bring water and snacks, and carry everything you need, as it is not easy to nip back to the car once you have climbed up.
Practical info
By car, use postcode NE47 6NN for satnav; parking is run by Northumberland National Park (£5 up to 3 hours, then £2 per extra hour, £10 daily maximum, pay on exit). By public transport, the seasonal AD122 Hadrian's Wall bus from Hexham railway station stops at the fort, so check the timetable (it mainly runs spring to autumn). Prices, opening hours and bus services change, so always confirm the latest details on the official English Heritage website.
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