Five Fascinating Forts in the North East
Our region has so many fascinating forts
Arbeia South Shields Roman Fort
Overlooking the mouth of the River Tyne, Arbeia South Shields Roman Fort once guarded the main sea route to Hadrian’s Wall. See where the soldiers based at Arbeia would have lived, cooked and kept their equipment, and make the most of the regular, free guided tours.
Baring Street, South Shields NE33 2BB
0191 277 1410
arbeiaromanfort.org.uk
Roman Vindolanda Fort & Museum
An authentic and dramatic example of Rome’s extraordinary military presence, this fort lies alongside a sweeping section of Hadrian’s Wall. Visitors can explore what remains of this fort as well as an incredible array of artefacts at the on-site museum. Bardon Mill, Hexham NE47 7JN
01434 344277
vindolanda.com
Housesteads Roman Fort
Britain’s oldest, most complete Roman fort, Housesteads dates back to 138AD, and was once home to nearly 10,000 soldiers whose history visitors can find encapsulated in the amazing exhibits. Housesteads even boasts the oldest communal toilets and hospital you’re ever likely to see.
Haydon Bridge, Hexham NE47 6NN
01434 344363
english-heritage.org.uk
Segedunum Roman Fort
Part of Emperor Hadrian’s mighty frontier project to defend against the North, Segedunum, meaning ‘strong fort’ was built to protect the eastern end of Hadrian’s Wall. Today, it is the most excavated fort along the wall, featuring a large interactive museum and a full-scale reconstruction of a traditional Roman bath house.
Buddle Street, Wallsend NE28 6HR
0191 278 4217
segedunumromanfort.org.uk
Piercebridge Roman Fort & Bridge
The remains at Piercebridge are part of a large bridge that carried a Roman road across the River Tees, and are clear evidence of the engineering achievements of the Romans. The ruins nearby show what remains of this fort, assumed to have been built in 260AD and in use until around 400AD. While only fractions of it are visible above ground today, information boards share the fascinating Roman history of Piercebridge.
Piercebridge, Darlington DL2 3SW
english-heritage.org.uk
