revisit: The past is closer than you remember
Where would we be without Emperor Hadrian? rediscover how his vision of consolidating the boundaries of the Roman Empire has left a legacy for all to enjoy today.
Be inspired by a magnificent string of Roman sites and forts, stretching from Arbeia at South Shields in the east, to the Ravenglass Roman Bath House some 150 miles away on the West Cumbrian coast. Linked by stunning landscape, the remains of Britain’s greatest ancient monument, ancient earthworks, Roman roads, castles, Abbeys, farms – all as a result of one inspirational emperor.
The Roman Frontier presents a road of discovery, through contrasting landscapes that typifies the diversity of Hadrian’s Wall Country. In metropolitan NewcastleGateshead, Arbeia Roman Fort & Museum and Segedunum Roman Fort, Baths & Museum provide insight and accurate reconstructions of the Wall and significant buildings, including a full size Roman Bath House. The Great North Museum features a large-scale interactive reconstruction of Hadrian’s Wall – the perfect introduction and inspiration for visitors to explore the Wall beyond the boundaries of the city.
Out toward rural Northumberland, the English Heritage sites of Corbridge Roman Town, Chesters Roman Fort, Housesteads Roman Fort and Birdoswald Roman Fort are linked by the Wall, the landscape and the stories of the multitude of archaeological finds.
The summer excavations at Roman Vindolanda unearthed the ancient writing tablets, the first known example of handwriting in this country, which will once again be on display in a new multi-million pound exhibition opening in Spring 2011. For an eagles eye view, the Roman Army Museum will have you gliding above the ancient Wall.
On reaching the ancient administrative centre of Hadrian’s Wall, Carlisle’s castle, cathedral and early Roman finds at Tullie House Museum & Art Gallery link the visitor to the ancient historic quarter of this Roman city. A new Roman Frontier gallery is due to open in summer 2011.
Carlisle also offers a huge choice of other attractions to enjoy, such as Cumbria's Military Museum, art galleries, heritage tours, award-winning parks, nature reserves and relaxing open spaces.
Beyond Carlisle, the Senhouse Roman Museum offers the finest collection of Roman alter stones, which will form the heart of a transformational visitor and archaeological excavation experience due to open in 2013.
It’s not all Roman – the Ravenglass & Eskdale Railway and Muncaster Castle combine to offer an insight into more recent historical endeaveours. Hexham’s historic Abbey and Old Gaol build a picture of early Christian heritage of the region, and the Castles at Aydon, Prudhoe and Tynemouth reflect life long after the demise of the Wall.
Why not stay in a castle, or in a b&b on the line of the Wall to truly immerse yourself.
