Things to See and Do at Housesteads Roman Fort
Housesteads is Britain’s most complete Roman fort. Visit, and you can enjoy astonishing views of Hadrian’s Wall, explore Roman history in a hands-on museum, and spend time discovering the rugged Northumberland landscape. Below are some of the highlights you can enjoy when visiting Housesteads.
Explore an amazing Roman Fort
Imagine what life was like for the 800 soldiers living and working at Housesteads in the Roman period. The fort's original name was Vercovicium, meaning 'the place of the effective fighters'.
At the very edge of their empire, the soldiers were secure and self-sufficient within the fort. The 5-acre fort displays the remains of gateways and a turreted wall: inside are a wealth of clearly traceable buildings, including the commandant’s house, hospital and the famous multi-seater communal loos.
Take a journey through time with a tour of the fort. Our knowledgeable volunteer guides lead tours during school holidays.
See astonishing views of Hadrian's Wall
Look east from the north wall of the fort, and you will see Hadrian's Wall, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, standing proudly in the rugged Northumberland National Park.
The view from Housesteads’ barrack blocks overlooking Hadrian's Wall Country is a sight to behold. No wonder Housesteads became a powerful base for the Roman Army: you really can see for miles!
Have some Family Fun
Children can dress up, touch replicas of Roman objects and explore the exhibition and fort with the help of Felix the Roman soldier.
Kids can then run wild in five acres of amazing countryside, check out the famous communal toilets; and bring a kite to fly within the ruins of the fort.
Play a game of 'I spy' on the edge of the Roman Empire and get stuck into garden games on the grass.
Discover magical creatures
Looking for an adventure with your little ones? Uncover English folklore with our Folktale Creature Trails, where children can discover magical creatures from English myths and legends.
Meet six unique creatures as you explore the site, and earn a special certificate marking your achievement when you complete the trail. There are some captivating audio stories to enjoy when you get home too.
The trail is included in the entry price. Find more sites taking part in the Folklore Creature Trail.
Discover the Visitor Centre
Housesteads is run jointly by English Heritage and the National Trust, and entry is free to members of both organisations. You will find a warm welcome at the National Trust Visitor Centre. It's a great spot for a restorative hot drink or a local homemade snack.
There is a fairly strenuous 10 minute walk from the visitor centre up to the museum and fort.
- Plan your visit to Housesteads Roman Fort – Hadrian's Wall today.
- Walk through history with the Housesteads Roman Trail.
- Find more places to visit and things to see and do at Hadrian's Wall