AD122 Hadrian’s Wall Bus

Journey Overview

The AD122 bus route along the Hadrian’s Wall is an excellent option for anyone looking to explore the stunning Northumberland countryside and discover the rich history of the Roman Empire in the UK. It’s a wonderful journey across rolling fields and rugged borderlands, of glimpses of rushing, powerful water on the River Tyne, of ruts, crevasses and countless sheep nestling on the sometimes rough but more often smooth, contoured green pastures. This is an iconic journey through the Northumberland National Park, offering stunning views of rolling hills, verdant meadows, and quaint villages, including Wall and Chollerford.

The bus starts in the charming market town of Hexham situated on the south bank of the Tyne, resplendent in character with its cobbled streets, galleries, art centre, fascinating architecture and bustling market square at its heart. It’s a town that holds a bloody history of marauding Vikings, and England’s first purpose-built prison, Hexham Old Gaol, which can be traced back to the 1300s.

The journey also passes through some of the most significant landmarks along the Hadrian’s Wall, including the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Vindolanda.  Before arriving in Vindolanda, the bus serves Housesteads Roman Fort, situated atop a dramatic hillside overlooking the countryside. The fort, which dates back to AD 124, is one of the best-preserved Roman ruins in the UK and offers a glimpse into the life of Roman soldiers stationed along the wall. It’s then onto Chesters Roman Fort on the banks of the River Tyne.

One real attraction of this fantastic journey is the opportunity to hop on and off for a walk anywhere between Birdoswald, Greenhead, The Sill, Chesters and High Brunton to explore the simply stunning Hadrian’s Wall trail – a Rover ticket makes this even easier too! It’s  really is  a journey that offers a range of interesting walks of varied distances, either to give a taste of the landscape and heritage or the opportunity for deeper exploration. The Housesteads & Vindolanda circular walk is an unforgettable walk along the most scenic part of Hadrian’s Wall, involving some short, sharp ascents and can be connected by alighting the bus at The Sill, Vindolanda or Housesteads. A stroll to Thirwall Castle is also a lovely 2 mile walk and very manageable, traversing the beautiful Walltown Quarry country park. You can join the walk at Greenhead or Walltown museum or country park from the bus.   For the more ambitious, the 23 mile (37 km) section between Chollerford and Birdoswald, served by AD122 and 185, is the most difficult, with lots of short climbs and descents.

A Fab Day Out!

This is a journey crammed with sights to see and places to visit as well as great walks. Here’s some inspiration for you, maybe picking out a few highlights for the day or stopping off over a couple of days or more, to visit all of those that we have recommended! There’s so many walks, including The Houseteads & Vindolana, or a stroll to Thirwall Castle as well as, for really ambitious folk, longer sections of the Hadrians Walk Trail, that a staycation might be most suitable.

In essence, the AD122 bus route offers a unique opportunity to explore the rich history and stunning landscapes of Northumberland. Starting in the market town of Haltwhistle, visitors can explore the surrounding countryside, which boasts some of the best walking and cycling trails in the country.

In Hexham, visitors can explore the historic town centre, which boasts a number of independent shops, cafes, and restaurants. The town is also home to the gothic Hexham Abbey, a stunning medieval church that is well worth a visit. Customers can also explore the nearby Hexham Old Gaol, which offers a glimpse into the harsh realities of life in medieval England.

The first stop off is Chesters Roman Fort, which is home to a number of well-preserved Roman buildings, including a bathhouse and barracks. Customers can also explore the nearby museum, which offers a fascinating insight into the lives of the soldiers who lived and worked here.

The Windolanda Roman Fort is another highlight, offering visitors a chance to explore the remains of this ancient Roman settlement. From here, visitors can continue on to Houseteads Roman Fort, which is one of the best-preserved Roman forts in the country.

The Sill Visitor Centre is the next stop on the journey is a must-visit for anyone interested in the natural world. The centre offers a range of interactive exhibits, as well as a number of walking trails that showcase the stunning landscapes of the Northumberland National Park.

The Milecastle Inn is the next stop on the route, and is a great place to stop for lunch or a quick drink. From here, visitors can explore the nearby countryside, with a number of walking and cycling routes that offer breathtaking views of the Hadrians Wall landscape.

The final stop on the bus route is the Greenhead Hotel, which is ideally located for exploring the nearby Walltown Roman Army Museum. This museum offers a fascinating insight into the lives of the Roman soldiers who manned Hadrian’s Wall, with interactive displays and exhibits that are sure to captivate visitors of all ages.

In Haltwhistle, visitors can visit the Roman Army Museum, which offers an immersive experience into the life of a Roman soldier. The town also offers a variety of cafes and restaurants, as well as a number of independent shops selling local produce and crafts. Haltwhistle Burn walk A circular route initially following the World Heritage Roman Wall route before heading off right over the Military Road down to Haltwhistle with great views of the Tyne valley. At Haltwhistle you have the option of refreshments before returning back to Cawfields Quarry and Crags via Haltwhistle burn with its wonderful flora and interesting mineworkings