Consider how the Roman army and local tribes lived, worked and died on the Empire's northernmost frontier
Explore the fascinating ancient forts, turrets and castles that line the Wall and learn about its history and construction on this newly expanded tour
Discover the settlement of Vindolanda, where ongoing excavations continue to reveal new archaeological insights
“Mike is a real enthusiast and this was catching! Who knew that individual Roman stones 'recycled' from the forts along the wall could be so interesting?”
ACE customer on the 2024 Hadrian’s Wall tour led by Mike King
Hear ACE Tour Director and museums expert Mike King uncover what makes an archaeology tour to Britain and Ireland so unique, including discussing the distinct climate of the British and Irish Isles and the community driven approach to an archaeological dig.
A UNESCO World Heritage site, Hadrian’s Wall is a formidable engineering achievement and spans over 70 miles of beautiful, often rugged countryside, sealing off ancient Britannia (modern day England and Wales) from ancient Caledonia (modern day Scotland). Whilst our first thoughts may stray to Pompeii or Herculaneum when considering preserved Rome, this wild northern outpost is home to astounding artefacts of its own, and its remains illuminate much of Roman life in Britain.
Throughout this specially expanded 2026 tour, we will explore the full length of Hadrian's Wall, from its easternmost point at Segedunum to the western fort at Bowness, journeying along Rome’s northern frontier and the imposing defensive structures that separated the Roman Empire from the Celtic tribes.
Our journey along Hadrian's Wall begins at Segedunum Roman Fort and Museum in Wallsend, marking the easternmost point of the Wall. This extensively excavated site boasts well-preserved buildings and foundations, along with a viewing platform providing excellent views.
Meanwhile, the substantial collection of Roman artefacts at the Great North Museum – coupled with a captivating animated digital projection model of the Wall – will bring the past vividly to life. We also look forward to a unique and immersive experience at the Roman Army Museum, where we hope to see an active archaeological dig site, allowing participants to observe firsthand the process of discovery and gain a deeper appreciation for ongoing research efforts.
Chesters, built to protect the passage of Hadrian’s Wall over the River Tyne, is Britain’s most imposing Roman cavalry fort and one of the most complete to survive today, with well-preserved baths, as well as a museum of Roman finds. Meanwhile, the ancient fort of Housesteads, perched high on a ridge overlooking wide expanses of Northumbrian moorland, is notable for its extensive barracks, granaries and hospital.
The garrison and civilian settlement at Vindolanda, where the eponymous wooden writing tablets were unearthed, is situated next to one of the best-preserved sections of the Wall. Positioned on a particularly lengthy stretch lies Birdoswald Roman Fort, where we will explore the on-site museum and wander the structures of bygone years.
As one of the earliest seats of Christianity, Hexham Abbey witnessed periods of turmoil and change. Its 7th century Anglo-Saxon crypt, constructed almost entirely out of salvaged Roman masonry, is one of the oldest surviving sections of St Wilfrid’s Benedictine Abbey, which was granted to the saint by Etheldreda, Queen of Northumbria, over 1300 years ago.
We will stay in the market town of Hexham, at the three-star Beaumont Hotel, a comfortable and welcoming establishment situated in a Victorian townhouse close to the Abbey.
Mike King
Mike was previously a Heritage Manager for Newry, Mourne and Down District Council and has lectured, guided and published widely.
This tour will be led by Mike King, BA, MA, a museum professional for over 30 years. Mike has a passion for British archaeology, early medieval culture, European pilgrimage and carved stones, and has curated an exhibition on the megaliths of Northern Ireland. He has always been fascinated by the legacy of the Romans, with his studies at Durham University enabling him to explore the transition from the Roman to early medieval era, concentrating on the Roman stones at Hexham Abbey. Mike looks forward to welcoming travellers on this newly expanded tour, which incorporates his work in Durham as well as his experience walking the length of the wall in 2022.
NEW FOR 2026
New for our 2026 departure, this itinerary will delve more deeply into life on Britain’s Northern Frontier. We will take in a particularly complete view of the Wall, exploring it from one end to the other and including visits that will offer a more vivid and in-depth understanding with high quality digital projections and active archaeological projects.
7
£2195
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