Sycamore Gap walk
A circular walk starting from the visitor centre to the Roman Fort and then along the World Heritage Roman wall footpath to the iconic Sycamore Gap.
Enjoy magnificent views of Hadrian's Wall and the Roman Military Way
Explore natural wilderness and become immersed in the history as you return via the Roman Military Way. Each step includes Waypoints.
Map
Start:
Housesteads Visitor Centre, grid ref: NY793684
1
Leave Housesteads Visitor Centre and take the main path up to Housesteads Fort. Keep to the left of the fort and join the Hadrian’s Wall Path at the top of the hill heading west.
2
After passing Hotbank Farm on the north side of the Wall and the earthworks of Milecastle 38, cross over the farm track at the bottom of the hill and switch to the north side of the Wall following the path through Crag Lough woods. As you drop down the Crag you’ll cross over Hadrian’s Wall at Sycamore Gap.
3
To start the return journey, walk downhill from the Wall for 50yd/45m until you reach a path running parallel to the Wall which follows the route of the Roman Military Way and head east. This path is less undulating than the main Hadrian’s Wall Path that you have been on.
Housesteads Wood
This is the only section where you can physically walk on the Wall itself. This section was maintained by antiquarian John Clayton who worked tirelessly to preserve the Wall for the public.
4
When you reach the farm track at Hotbank Farm re-join the Hadrian’s Wall Path and retrace your steps past milecastle 38 and Hotbank Farm.
Sycamore Gap
Many ask why Sycamore Gap (as well as Rapishaw Gap, possibly the first you encountered and Milking Gap) are... gaps! These 'nicks' in the Whin Sill are meltwater channels, naturally carved by vast amounts of meltwater flowing beneath the ice sheets that once covered this area.
5
Near the top of the hill just past the wood on your left take the diagonal path towards the top of the woods on your right and keep heading east along the Roman Military Way.
The Military Way
This was an administrative road between both man-made structures, the Wall and Vallum (a ditch that was 10ft (3m) deep and breadth at the top 20ft (6m)) for the supply of the garrison following the line of least typographical resistance, ignoring tactical considerations.
6
When you get back to Housesteads Fort head downhill and follow the main path back to the Visitor Centre.
End:
Housesteads Visitor Centre, grid ref: NY793684
