Viewing Tower and Museum
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Segedunum Roman Fort

4.3
·964 reviews·Wallsend, United Kingdom

Explore Segedunum, the easternmost Roman fort on Hadrian's Wall, with an interactive museum and a 35m viewing tower.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekday afternoons

Fewer crowds, more relaxed visit

CrowdLow
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Viewing Tower and Museum

Segedunum Roman Fort

Best Time

Weekday afternoons

Fewer crowds, more relaxed visit

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Explore Segedunum, the easternmost Roman fort on Hadrian's Wall, with an interactive museum and a 35m viewing tower.

4.3
(964 reviews)

"A hidden gem in Wallsend for any history buff, offering a fascinating glimpse into Roman life."

Vertical photo
TIP

🎯 Metro is your friend

Hop off at Wallsend station for a quick walk to the fort. Easy peasy! :train_2:

🎟️ Tickets at the counter

No need to book online, just buy tickets at the museum. Relaxed atmosphere. :ticket:

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Segedunum Viewing Tower

Segedunum Viewing Tower

Museum

Get a bird's-eye view of the fort and Hadrian's Wall from this impressive 35-meter tower.

Instagram
Interactive Museum Exhibits

Interactive Museum Exhibits

Museum

Step back in time with immersive displays and fascinating finds that bring Roman life to life.

InstagramReddit
Hadrian's Wall Section

Hadrian's Wall Section

Across the street from the museum

Walk along a preserved section of Hadrian's Wall and a recreated part you can climb.

Reddit
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Planning Your Visit

Getting There is Easy!

Segedunum Roman Fort is super accessible via the Metro, with the Wallsend station just a short walk away. This makes it a breeze to reach from Newcastle, even if you're not driving. Reddit

Plan for Renovations

Some visitors have noted ongoing renovations, which might affect access to certain exhibits. Check ahead or be prepared for potential partial closures, though discounts are sometimes offered. Reddit+1

Best Times

When
Weekday afternoons
Why
Fewer crowds, more relaxed visit
Crowd
Low
When
Special event days
Why
Live reenactments & activities
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

What were the Key Defences for a Roman Fort? #Romanfort #romanhistory #britishhistory #Romans
@survivehistory
53.8K likes • 1M views

🎯 Metro is your friend

Hop off at Wallsend station for a quick walk to the fort. Easy peasy! Reddit :train_2:

🎟️ Tickets at the counter

No need to book online, just buy tickets at the museum. Relaxed atmosphere. Reddit :ticket:

Where You'd Sleep in a Roman Fort #Romans #Romanfort #fort #romanhistory #History
@survivehistory
15.5K likes • 262.3K views
📍 Segedunum Roman Fort and museum, Wallsend The eastern most fort along Hadrian’s Wall, right on the River Tyne! #archaeology #history #roman #hadrianswall #romanfort #archaeological #segedunum
bethanna_archaeo
0 likes • 299 views

👟 Explore the ruins

Wander the fort site and the actual section of Hadrian's Wall across the street. :athletic_shoe:

⏳ Allow 2-3 hours

Plenty to see and read, you could easily spend a good chunk of your day here. :clock1:

Segedunum Roman fort @segedunumfort 📍NE28 6HR ⚔️we went to segedunum roman fort today, which was a first for the boys. We had a canny time, the boys are just getting to an age where they are interested in history especially anything with swords/fighting 😂. We do think maybe younger children may struggle with an interest. But anyone with kids who have history interest in romans would love it- t...
northeast.wildlings
211 likes • 1.8K views

Tips

from all over the internet

🎯 Metro is your friend

Hop off at Wallsend station for a quick walk to the fort. Easy peasy! Reddit :train_2:

🎟️ Tickets at the counter

No need to book online, just buy tickets at the museum. Relaxed atmosphere. Reddit :ticket:

👟 Explore the ruins

Wander the fort site and the actual section of Hadrian's Wall across the street. :athletic_shoe:

⏳ Allow 2-3 hours

Plenty to see and read, you could easily spend a good chunk of your day here. :clock1:

🛍️ Lockers available

If you're shopping, use the free lockers to store your bags while you explore. :handbag:

What Travellers Say

4.3
(964 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors praise Segedunum Roman Fort for its accessibility via Metro, affordable entry, and immersive museum experience that transports you back to Roman times. The chance to explore the fort ruins and a section of Hadrian's Wall is a significant draw. Some minor drawbacks include occasional renovations affecting exhibit access and a lack of a full cafe.

"Easily reachable by Metro (get off at Wallsend). The museum was under renovation from the outside and part of the upper floor exhibition was under construction when I visited, but the museum kindly only charged half price. You can get the tickets at the counter with no problem and the museum was not crowded at all when I visited during the week, so you have lots of time to see everything. The accessible part of the museum is very beautifully designed and you feel like you've been teleported back to Roman times. Once you have a ticket you can access the ruins of the Segedunum Fort and the end of Hadrian's Wall just across the street. For roughly 3,50 pounds that was definitely worth a visit!"

Ahmad Sarwar

"Neat museum that's definitely worth a visit if you're interested in Hadrian's Wall. Entry tickets are discounted as of writing this review, I think it was just under £4 (you can buy at the museum). It's easy to get to, only a ~3-minute walk from the Wallsend metro station. I went on a Wednesday afternoon and there was only one other small group that showed up after me so it's quite relaxed. There were an informative gallery about the site and surrounding area's history and a viewing platform for the site, and you can also walk on the site itself. Just across the road, there's a separate section of the site where there's an actual section of the wall alongside a recreation you can go up on. Unfortunately, it seemed like some of the side galleries and the Roman bathhouse recreation were closed during my visit, not sure when those will be re-opened."

Shoumma Shams

"Fantastic day out. Attended the 25th anniversary of the opening of segudunum. We witnessed roman cavalry tactics, explored the museums and really enjoyed the cinema within. A hidden gem in Wallsend for any history buff. The bird's-eye view up the tower is fascinating along with the background video."

Malonski69

What People Like

Easy Metro access
Affordable entry fees
Immersive museum

What People Dislike

Occasional renovations
No full cafe

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Segedunum Roman Fort is easily accessible by public transport. The nearest Metro station is Wallsend, which is just a short 3-minute walk from the fort. Reddit+1 This makes it a convenient option for visitors coming from Newcastle and surrounding areas. Instagram

While public transport is highly recommended, there are likely parking options in Wallsend town center. However, specific details on dedicated fort parking are not widely available, suggesting the Metro is the primary access method. Instagram

Segedunum marks the easternmost point of Hadrian's Wall. If you've been walking the wall, it's a natural endpoint. Instagram You can also access a section of the wall directly across the street from the museum. Reddit

No, Segedunum Roman Fort is not part of English Heritage, so your English Heritage pass will not be valid here. It operates as a separate attraction. Reddit

The most straightforward way is to take the Metro from Newcastle city center directly to Wallsend station. The journey is quick and efficient, making it ideal for day-trippers. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Entry tickets are very reasonably priced, often around £3.50 to £4. Reddit+1 You can purchase them directly at the museum counter. Reddit

No, advance booking is generally not required. You can easily buy your tickets at the museum counter upon arrival. Reddit

Yes, visitors have reported receiving discounted entry, sometimes half-price, if parts of the museum or exhibitions are under renovation or construction. Reddit+1

Opening hours can vary, and some parts of the museum may be closed during winter or for maintenance. It's advisable to check their official website or social media for the most up-to-date information before your visit. Reddit

Yes, your ticket grants you access to both the museum exhibits and the excavated ruins of Segedunum Fort, as well as the section of Hadrian's Wall across the street. Reddit

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

You can explore the museum with its informative galleries and interactive displays, climb the 35-meter viewing tower for panoramic views, and walk through the excavated fort ruins. InstagramReddit Across the street, you can also see a preserved section of Hadrian's Wall and a recreated portion. Reddit

Segedunum can be engaging for children, especially those interested in history, swords, and fighting. Instagram The interactive elements and the chance to explore ruins can be fun. However, very young children might find it less captivating. Instagram

Most visitors find that 2-3 hours is sufficient to explore the museum, the fort ruins, and the section of Hadrian's Wall. Reddit

Yes, Segedunum occasionally hosts special events, including historical reenactments like Roman cavalry tactics, and family-friendly activities such as Roman helmet making. Instagram+1

The 'ankle breakers' refer to the V-shaped ditches dug in front of Roman forts. These were designed as an obstacle for attackers, making it difficult and dangerous to approach the fort walls. TikTok

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

While there isn't a full cafe, Segedunum does offer basic refreshments like cold drinks, tea, and coffee at reasonable prices. Reddit

Information on bringing your own food is not explicitly stated, but given the limited dining options, it might be a good idea to plan for meals before or after your visit, or check if picnic areas are available. Reddit

As Segedunum is located in Wallsend, there are likely various cafes and restaurants in the town center, a short walk from the fort, offering more substantial dining options. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

Photography is generally allowed at Segedunum, allowing you to capture the fort ruins, museum exhibits, and views from the tower. Instagram+1

The 35-meter viewing tower offers excellent panoramic shots of the fort and surrounding area. Instagram The preserved section of Hadrian's Wall also provides iconic photo opportunities. Reddit

There are no specific mentions of drone usage. It's always best to check with the venue directly regarding their policy on drone photography to avoid any issues. Instagram

While generally permitted, it's wise to be mindful of other visitors and any specific signage within the museum that might indicate areas where photography is restricted, especially for flash photography. Instagram

Look out for unique artifacts like the shrine with its original little doors, which is a favorite among museum staff. Instagram The scale of the fort ruins and the juxtaposition with modern Wallsend can also make for interesting shots. Instagram

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Segedunum Roman Fort offers a fun and educational outing for families. Kids interested in history, especially anything involving Roman soldiers, swords, and forts, will likely enjoy exploring the ruins and the interactive museum exhibits. Instagram+1 The chance to walk on a section of Hadrian's Wall is a unique experience that can spark their imagination. Reddit

Consider attending during special event days, which often feature reenactments and hands-on activities like making Roman helmets, making the visit even more engaging. Instagram While younger children might need more encouragement to stay interested, older kids will find plenty to learn and explore. The availability of lockers is also a bonus for managing belongings. Reddit

🚶 Budget Travelers

Segedunum is an excellent choice for budget-conscious travelers, with very affordable entry fees, often around £3.50-£4. Reddit+1 The ease of access via the Metro from Newcastle also saves on transportation costs. Reddit

While there's no full cafe, you can purchase basic drinks and snacks, or pack your own to save money. Reddit The combination of the museum, fort ruins, and a section of Hadrian's Wall offers significant value for the admission price, providing a comprehensive historical experience without breaking the bank. Reddit

🏛️ History Buffs

For those passionate about Roman history, Segedunum is a must-visit. As the easternmost fort on Hadrian's Wall, it provides crucial context for understanding the Roman frontier. Instagram The museum houses fascinating artifacts, including unique items like a shrine with its original doors, offering deep insights into Roman life and culture. Instagram

The opportunity to explore the excavated fort ruins and walk along a preserved section of Hadrian's Wall offers a tangible connection to the past. Reddit The 35-meter viewing tower provides an excellent vantage point to appreciate the fort's strategic layout and its historical significance. Instagram The site is a 'hidden gem' for anyone interested in Roman Britain. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Strategic Importance of Segedunum

Segedunum, meaning 'strong fort,' was the easternmost fort on Hadrian's Wall, strategically positioned at the end of the wall's line. Its location on the River Tyne was crucial for controlling movement and trade in the region. The fort served as a vital base for Roman soldiers tasked with defending the northern frontier of the Roman Empire. Instagram

Its defenses were formidable, featuring a V-shaped ditch, often referred to as 'ankle breakers,' designed to impede attackers before they even reached the walls. TikTok The fort housed a garrison of auxiliary troops, providing a significant military presence in the area. Understanding its role highlights the extensive planning and engineering involved in Roman frontier defense. TikTok

Today, visitors can explore the excavated remains of the fort, offering a tangible connection to this ancient military outpost. The 35-meter viewing tower provides a commanding perspective, allowing you to visualize the fort's layout and its relationship to the surrounding landscape and the remaining sections of Hadrian's Wall. Instagram

Experiencing Roman Life at Segedunum

Segedunum's museum aims to transport visitors back to Roman times with its interactive exhibits and displays of archaeological finds. You can learn about the daily lives of soldiers stationed here, from their sleeping quarters to their duties. TikTokInstagram

One of the highlights is the opportunity to walk on a preserved section of Hadrian's Wall itself, just across the road from the museum. There's also a recreated section that you can ascend, giving you a sense of the scale and purpose of this monumental structure. Reddit The museum also showcases unique artifacts, such as a shrine that still retains its original doors, offering a glimpse into Roman religious practices. Instagram

For families, the fort can be an engaging experience, especially for children interested in history and combat. Instagram Special events, like historical reenactments and craft activities, further enhance the immersive experience, making Segedunum a well-rounded destination for history enthusiasts of all ages. Instagram

Visiting Segedunum: Practicalities and Tips

Getting to Segedunum is remarkably easy thanks to its proximity to the Wallsend Metro station, making it a highly accessible attraction. Reddit+1 Visitors can purchase tickets directly at the museum counter, and the site is generally not overcrowded, especially on weekday afternoons, allowing for a relaxed exploration. Reddit+1

While the museum offers a great overview, be aware that some areas might be undergoing renovation, which could affect the full visitor experience. However, this has sometimes led to discounted entry fees. Reddit+1 The site provides lockers for storing shopping bags, which is a thoughtful touch for those combining their visit with a shopping trip in Wallsend. Reddit

Although there isn't a full cafe, basic refreshments are available. Reddit Plan for at least 2-3 hours to fully appreciate the museum, the fort ruins, and the adjacent section of Hadrian's Wall. Reddit Remember that Segedunum is a separate entity and not part of the English Heritage pass system. Reddit

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