'Birdoswald Roman Fort'

Gilsland, Brampton, CA6 7DD. Tel: 016977 47602.

Location : Gilsland
Map - Ordnance Survey - NY 615663

Birdoswald is located in one of the most picturesque settings along the whole of Hadrian's Wall, overlooking the River Irthing gorge. It is unique because at no other point along the wall can all the components of the Roman Frontier system be found in such a small area.

A Visitor Centre brings to life the fascinating history of Birdoswald, and as well as telling the story of the Roman connections, also describes the border raids in the middle ages, and about the Victorians and twentieth century archaeological discoveries.

At Birdoswald you can see the early turf wall built in AD 122, over the original fort. The turf wall, stone wall, Harrow's Scar Milecastle (a short walk along the wall) and the fort itself are all visible reminders of the Roman occupation.

A new bridge has been constructed which crosses the River Irthing and allows people to follow the wall to Willowford, where there is almost a mile of the best preserved western sector of the wall.

Open daily from 1st March to 31 October 10.00 - 17.30. There is a shop, and a small refreshment area. The site is managed by Cumbria County Council.

For more information see www.birdoswaldromanfort.org.

Aerial photos by Simon Ledingham.