Housesteads is the best-preserved Roman fort along Hadrian's Wall, offering striking views across Northumberland National Park. Built around AD 124, this UNESCO World Heritage site features complete foundations of barracks, granaries, and the commanding officer's house. It sits in Newcastle upon Tyne's Gosforth, close to the other main sights. It sits below the headline sights but earns its place on a longer visit to Newcastle upon Tyne, especially paired with nearby Steel Rigg And Sycamore Gap. Tickets cost £9.50 adult, £5.70 child, English Heritage members free and 2-3 hours is enough to see everything without rushing.
Priority: Medium - include with 2+ days Time needed: 2-3 hours Best for: the most complete roman fort on hadrian's wall Skip if: You have mobility issues with the steep walk or aren't interested in Roman history Cost: £9.50 adult, £5.70 child, English Heritage members free
You'll climb through windswept moorland to explore stone foundations where Roman soldiers lived 2000 years ago. The panoramic views across the Northumberland landscape are striking.
Accessibility: Not suitable for wheelchairs due to rough terrain and steep approach path
The most complete Roman fort on Hadrian's Wall with striking countryside views. It is not the first thing you should see in Newcastle upon Tyne, but with two or more days it fills a gap the major sights leave. It pairs naturally with Steel Rigg And Sycamore Gap and Roman Army Museum - together they fill a solid half-day. Mornings are quieter if you want to take your time.
Skip if: You have mobility issues with the steep walk or aren't interested in Roman history
| Detail | Info |
|---|---|
| Opening Hours | Daily 10:00-16:00 (winter), 10:00-18:00 (summer), closed 24-26 Dec |
| Price | £9.50 adult, £5.70 child, English Heritage members free |
| Time Needed | 2-3 hours |
| Best Time to Visit | Early morning for fewer crowds and better photography |
| Address | Near Bardon Mill, Hexham NE47 6NN |
Insider tip: The communal latrines are remarkably well-preserved and show how Romans lived together
Excellent views for landscape photography, drone restrictions apply due to heritage status
What we'd tell a friend visiting
More places to visit in Newcastle Upon Tyne
Common questions about Housesteads Roman Fort
About 20-30 minutes uphill walk, quite steep but well-maintained path
Book directly from our trusted partner Viator