Hadrian's Wall on Tyneside

Hadrian’s Wall, the great frontier of the Roman Empire, began on what is now Tyneside. 

It ran for 73 miles across Northern Britain from the mouth of the River Tyne to the Solway Firth.

You can discover this exciting World Heritage Site at three of our venues, all just a short walk from Tyne & Wear Metro stations.

Nearest Metro: Haymarket

Located in the heart of Newcastle city centre, the Great North Museum: Hancock contains a Roman collection of international significance from along the length of Hadrian's Wall and its outpost forts. Highlights include:

• Roman Britain in Colour display - seven altars provide the backdrop for a vivid light show
• Numerous altars, tombstones, relief sculptures and building inscriptions (including the inscription providing conclusive proof that Hadrian ordered the Wall to be built)
• Amazing jewellery, armour, weapons, pottery and other domestic items (including the gold Amelia Ring - believed to be the earliest Christian artefact found in Roman Britain)
• A large scale interactive model of the whole of Hadrian's Wall.

Nearest Metro: Wallsend

Located on the River Tyne at Wallsend, Segedunum Roman Fort guarded the eastern end of Hadrian's Wall. The fort, together with its port and small town, was a key place on the frontier. A UNESCO World Heritage site, it is the most excavated fort along the Wall. Highlights include:

• The recently discovered foundations of the original Roman bath house
• 80m section of original Hadrian's Wall foundations
• Dramatic views of the ancient site, the River Tyne and cityscape from the 35m high viewing tower
• A reconstructed stretch of Hadrian's Wall to climb.

Explore the line of the Wall from Segedunum westwards through Newcastle to Heddon in this video - Gannin' Alang the Wall

Nearest Metro: South Shields

Arbeia, South Shields Roman Fort, standing above the entrance to the River Tyne, guarded the main sea route to Hadrian's Wall and was a key garrison and military supply base to other forts along the Wall. Highlights include:

• A UNESCO World Heritage site with stunning full-scale reconstructed buildings, including the West Gate, the Commanding Officer's house and a barrack block
• One of the finest collections of finds from Roman Britain
• Stories are brought to life at Arbeia through a variety of events and displays including gladiator battles, falconry displays, Roman re-enactments, storytelling and more
• Currently closed to the public until 31 March 2025. Open to pre-booked school and group tours, and special events.