Poltross Burn Milecastle
Explore the remnants of a Roman milecastle and walk a scenic stretch of Hadrian's Wall, connecting with ancient history.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Wildflowers bloom, fewer crowds
Poltross Burn Milecastle
Best Time
Wildflowers bloom, fewer crowds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Explore the remnants of a Roman milecastle and walk a scenic stretch of Hadrian's Wall, connecting with ancient history.
"A good starting point to walk 3km of the wall, offering history and beautiful scenery."
👟 Sturdy Footwear Essential
The terrain can be uneven. Comfortable walking shoes are a must for exploring the milecastle and wall path.
💧 Pack Water & Snacks
There are no facilities on-site. Bring your own refreshments for a comfortable visit.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Roman Milecastle Ruins
Poltross Burn
Explore the remnants of a Roman milecastle, a key defensive structure on Hadrian's Wall.
Hadrian's Wall Path
Adjacent to the milecastle
Walk a scenic section of the Hadrian's Wall Path, offering beautiful countryside and historical context.
Poltross Burn Bridge
Near the milecastle
A picturesque wooden bridge crossing the Poltross Burn, adding to the charm of the area.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Walk the Wall's Edge
Access and Amenities
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
👟 Sturdy Footwear Essential
The terrain can be uneven. Comfortable walking shoes are a must for exploring the milecastle and wall path.
💧 Pack Water & Snacks
There are no facilities on-site. Bring your own refreshments for a comfortable visit.
📸 Capture the Scenery
The landscape is beautiful. Don't forget your camera to photograph the ruins and surrounding nature.
🚶♀️ Walk the Wall Path
Start your Hadrian's Wall adventure here and enjoy a 3km stretch of the historic wall.
Tips
from all over the internet
👟 Sturdy Footwear Essential
The terrain can be uneven. Comfortable walking shoes are a must for exploring the milecastle and wall path.
💧 Pack Water & Snacks
There are no facilities on-site. Bring your own refreshments for a comfortable visit.
📸 Capture the Scenery
The landscape is beautiful. Don't forget your camera to photograph the ruins and surrounding nature.
🚶♀️ Walk the Wall Path
Start your Hadrian's Wall adventure here and enjoy a 3km stretch of the historic wall.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors find Poltross Burn Milecastle to be a great starting point for exploring Hadrian's Wall, offering a peaceful and scenic walk along a well-preserved section. The historical significance combined with the natural beauty of the area is highly appreciated, though the lack of facilities is a common point of note.
"Good starting point to walk 3km of the wall"
R13LLX
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Poltross Burn Milecastle is accessible via the Hadrian's Wall Path. It's located near Gilsland, straddling the border between Cumbria and Northumberland. Driving is a common method, with parking available nearby, though it can be limited. Public transport options are less direct, often requiring a bus to Gilsland and then a walk.
Limited parking is available near the site, particularly for those accessing the Hadrian's Wall Path. It's advisable to arrive early, especially during peak season, to secure a spot.
Cycling is possible along sections of the Hadrian's Wall Path, but be mindful of the terrain and other walkers. Some parts may be more suitable for walking than cycling.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, Poltross Burn Milecastle is an open-access historical site. There are no admission fees, allowing for free exploration of the Roman ruins.
As an outdoor historical site, Poltross Burn Milecastle is accessible at any time. However, visiting during daylight hours is recommended for safety and better viewing.
Absolutely! Poltross Burn Milecastle is an excellent destination for a day trip, especially when combined with a walk along Hadrian's Wall.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
You can explore the remains of a Roman milecastle, a small fort designed to house soldiers and control movement along Hadrian's Wall. The site offers a glimpse into Roman military architecture and life on the frontier. 
Yes, Poltross Burn Milecastle is a great starting point for walking along Hadrian's Wall. You can follow the Hadrian's Wall Path for approximately 3km in either direction.
There are very limited facilities at Poltross Burn Milecastle. It's a natural historical site, so be prepared to bring your own water, snacks, and any other necessities.
The ruins, the surrounding landscape, and the charming Poltross Burn bridge make it a very photogenic spot, especially during the golden hours.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
The closest amenities are typically found in the nearby village of Gilsland. You'll find a few pubs and cafes there that offer refreshments and meals.
Yes, picnicking is a popular activity here. Enjoying a packed lunch amidst the Roman ruins and scenic countryside is a wonderful experience. Remember to take all your litter with you.
📸 📸 Photography
Early morning or late afternoon offer the best light for photography, creating dramatic shadows and a warm glow on the ruins. The bridge also looks lovely in soft light.
You can capture the ancient Roman stonework, the expansive views of the countryside, the charming Poltross Burn bridge, and the historic Hadrian's Wall path.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
+1🚶♀️ Hikers and Walkers
+1📸 Photographers
+1Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring Roman Britain at Poltross Burn
+1The surrounding landscape adds to the allure. The site is situated near the Poltross Burn, a small stream crossed by a picturesque wooden bridge, which has become a popular photographic subject. The Hadrian's Wall Path runs directly past the milecastle, allowing visitors to easily incorporate a walk along this historic route into their visit. This section of the wall path is known for its scenic beauty and provides an excellent opportunity to experience the scale and grandeur of Hadrian's Wall.
+1While the site itself is undeveloped, its natural beauty and historical significance make it a compelling destination. It's a place where history meets nature, offering a peaceful and evocative experience for those interested in Roman Britain and the rugged landscapes of Cumbria and Northumberland.
+1Walking the Hadrian's Wall Path from Poltross Burn
+1Many visitors choose to walk a 3km stretch from Poltross Burn towards Birdoswald Roman Fort, or in the other direction towards Willowford. This allows for a manageable yet immersive experience of walking alongside the ancient monument. The path is generally well-maintained, though some sections can be steep or uneven, so appropriate footwear is essential. Along the way, you'll encounter other Roman sites, stunning vistas, and the tranquil beauty of the North East of England.
+1This walk is not just about the physical journey; it's about stepping back in time and appreciating the engineering marvel and strategic importance of Hadrian's Wall. It's a chance to connect with the landscape and the history that shaped this region, making it a highlight for many who visit Poltross Burn Milecastle.
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Social
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