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Hadrian's Wall

Simon Thurley, Chief Executive of English Heritage, on Hadrian’s Wall

“The North East is very much epitomised by its people, who are all so warm and proud of their heritage

The North East has so much to offer, and during my visits there I am always particularly drawn by the romance of the Northumbrian coast, from the dramatic approach to Lindisfarne Priory on Holy Island to the beautiful beaches surrounding Dunstanburgh Castle.

But if I had to focus on one landmark it would have to be Hadrian’s Wall. Spanning 150 miles, the Wall is the most important Roman Monument in Britain, attracting around 1 million visitors a year from across the globe. It is an icon for the North-East and the local people are rightly proud of it. 

The Roman Empire was one of the greatest and most influential in human history and it is wonderful to watch visitors lose themselves in the isolated splendour of this World Heritage Site. It is also fascinating that Hadrian’s Wall continues to question our perception of history as we learn more about the secrets of the past with new finds regularly being unearthed by archaeologists.

The North East for me is very much epitomised by its people, who are all so warm and proud of their heritage.  My first impression has always been the intense sense of place and the energy that you experience in very few other places.

Hadrian’s Wall is a must, whether you are interested in discovering the fascinating history at Housesteads and Chesters Roman Forts, or keen to explore the great outdoors with a bracing walk.

I’d advise stay for as long as they can, and experience as much as possible of this fascinating region."