Free Entry
One of the best-preserved milecastles on Hadrian's Wall, Poltross Burn Milecastle is unusually large: it contained two barrack blocks, one on either side of a central road. Known locally as the King’s Stables, it also includes an oven, a stair to the ramparts walk, and the remains of its north gateway.
Read more about Poltross Burn Milecastle’s history.
Before You Go
Access: The walk from the car park to the milecastle is not strenuous, but there is a footbridge and several steps. Not suitable for wheelchairs.
Parking: Limited free parking is available near the Samson Inn, a 5-10 minute walk from the site. Not managed by English Heritage.
Teachers' Kit: Download our education pack for Hadrians' Wall with various sections aimed at KS1-2, KS3, and KS4+. Other teaching resources can be found on our 'Learn' pages.
Drone flying: English Heritage does not permit drone flying from or over sites in our care, except by contractors or partners undertaking flights for a specific purpose, who satisfy stringent CAA criteria, have the correct insurances and permissions, and are operating under controlled conditions. Please see our drone filming guidelines for more details, or email our Filming team.
Please be aware: Site is adjacent to a river.
Plan a Great Day Out
Poltross Burn Milecastle is just over two miles away from Birdoswald Roman Fort, where you can explore the longest continuous stretch of Hadrian's Wall. There are also extensive remains of the fort and an exhibition with interactive displays, artefacts and a model of the wall. Birdoswald's tearoom is the perfect place to grab a bite to eat and rest weary legs.
Poltross Burn is also part of the Birdoswald Roman Trail, which starts at Lanercost Priory and finishes at Willowford Roman Wall and Bridge Abutment. Poltross Burn sits roughly halfway between Birdoswald Roman Fort and Willowford Wall.
Café and toilet facilities are available at Birdoswald Roman Fort and Lanercost Priory.
