Birdoswald Roman Fort is the site of the longest surviving stretch of Hadrian's Wall. Managed by English Heritage, there's plenty to discover with exhibitions and lovely walking trails in the surroundings too. After a ramble, you can put your feet up in the rustic cafe and enjoy a slice of cake with a hot drink.

Willem VS

July 21, 2025

Cycling

On a strategic rise above the River Irthing lies Birdoswald Roman Fort (Banna), one of the best-preserved forts along Hadrian's Wall. Built around 122 AD, it housed troops from countries …

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Howard Cheesman

July 13, 2019

Cycling

Museum and remains of the Roman settlement are excellent but cafe is overpriced in my opinion. Not far away, it's signposted, is Slack Farm Organic Cafe and Farm Shop which is very well worth a visit. Amazingly, the milk is unpasteurised and they make their own Birdoswald cheese which is delicious.

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1. Birdoswald Roman Fort – Birdoswald Roman Fort loop from Gilsland

4.83km

01:20

80m

Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.

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2. Birdoswald Roman Fort – Hadrian's Wall loop from Gilsland

4.75km

01:17

70m

Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.

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3. Willowford on Hadrian's Wall – Hadrian's Wall loop from Gilsland

4.95km

01:21

70m

Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.

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Informations

Elevation 210 m

Weather

Today

Saturday 14 March

7°C

-1°C

11 %

Additional weather tips

Max wind speed: 23.0 km/h

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Take Me There

Location: Waterhead, Carlisle, Cumbria, North West England, England, United Kingdom

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Birdoswald Roman Fort

1. Birdoswald Roman Fort – Birdoswald Roman Fort loop from Gilsland

2. Birdoswald Roman Fort – Hadrian's Wall loop from Gilsland

3. Willowford on Hadrian's Wall – Hadrian's Wall loop from Gilsland

Other Popular Places to Check Out

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