English Heritage

160Tungrian Infantry

The neighbouring Antonine Wall in Scotland is abandoned. Housesteads is garrisoned by the Tungrians, an infantry cohort of about 800 men, for the next two centuries.

Late 2nd-3rd CenturiesFort Renovations

Major building work takes place at the commanding officer's house, the granaries and other fort structures.

Read a description of Housesteads

Early 3rd CenturyDutch Soldiers

Additional garrison units from Frisia (north-east Holland) join Housesteads.

Late 3rd CenturyReduced Numbers

The garrison is reduced in strength, the barracks are transformed, and the settlement outside the fort is abandoned.

5th CenturyAfter the Romans

Immediate post-Roman activity at Housesteads is indicated by a 'cist' burial in a water tank close to the north curtain wall.

Late 16th Century'House Steads'

Part of 'House steads' is reported as belonging to Nicholas Crane of Bradley Hall.

Late 16th Century'Ranke Robbers'

The area becomes a notorious lair for rustlers and thieves, chiefly the Armstrong family. Antiquary and traveller William Camden avoids the site for fear of the 'ranke robbers thereabouts'.

1820s-1830sFirst Excavations

The Revd John Hodgson carries out the first excavations at Housesteads.

19th Century to PresentOpen to Visitors

The fort forms the highlight of John Clayton’s ‘Roman Wall Estate’.

Learn more about the history of Housesteads Roman Fort