Gilsland on Hadrian's Wall

Gilsland is on Hadrian's Wall and just off the A69, which connects Carlisle and Newcastle. For planning your trip, you can focus on several themes: Roman history and structures along the Wall, walking and cycling routes, and church and natural history. If you are looking for hotels in Gilsland, this overview can help you tailor your trip to your interests.

Roman history and structures

Poltross Burn Milecastle is one of the best-preserved milecastles on Hadrian's Wall and contained two barrack blocks. Willowford Wall offers a different architectural feature: this section comprises 914 metres of Hadrian's Wall, two turrets and impressive bridge remains on the River Irthing. A single, well-preserved milecastle with barrack blocks and a longer stretch of Wall with turrets and bridge remains therefore represent different archaeological points of interest.

The history of Birdoswald Roman Fort began in AD 122, when a wooded promontory was cleared for the construction of Hadrian's Wall. The fort remained occupied throughout the Roman period. Its exhibition includes an introductory film, artefacts and hands-on activities for families. The combination of film, artefacts and hands-on activities brings together an introduction with engaging and practical elements. Check the current exhibition details before your visit.

Church and historical connections

Not all the historical themes date from Roman times. St Mary Magdalene Church in Gilsland was built in 1853/4 and consecrated in 1854. It is open for services; as service arrangements may change, check the latest arrangements before your visit. The historic Gilsland Spa sulphur well has been visited since the 19th century. The church has a dated building and consecration history, while the well has a history of visitors.

Walks and routes

An easy circular walk through Gilsland is about one mile long and suitable for young children accompanied by an adult. The Gilsland and Birdoswald Circular also starts and ends in Gilsland. The River Irthing Walk leads from Gilsland, starting at the Bath House, to the gorge. The walking options therefore differ in their format and destination: from a short, easy loop to a longer circular route and a path to the gorge.

There are also numerous local cycling routes around Gilsland, mostly along quiet country roads. Local route conditions may change. Before setting out, check the latest Gilsland and Birdoswald Circular leaflet and the conditions on your chosen route.

Nature and local connections

Crammel Linn waterfall has a 10 m drop. Slack House Farm, home of Birdoswald Cheese Dairy, is near Gilsland. In addition to archaeological and historical themes, this brings a natural feature and the connection between a farm and a cheese dairy into view.

Discover more destinations: Boulmer, Lowick, Allendale Town, Alnmouth, Longwitton, Blanchland, Chatton, Warkworth

For the main travel overview: Northumberland.