Attractions

We are within walking distance of the best section of Hadrian’s Wall, the north-west frontier of the Roman empire for nearly 300 years. At 73 miles long it marches across northern Britain from sea to sea. The most famous of all the frontiers of the Roman Empire, Hadrian’s Wall was made a World Heritage Site in 1987. Explore ruined forts, the museums and a Roman town along the wall to find out more about life on the northern frontier.

Set high on a dramatic escarpment on Hadrian's Wall World Heritage Site, Housesteads Roman Fort takes you back to the Roman Empire. Wander the barrack blocks and the hospital. Peer into the oldest toilets you'll ever see, and admire the stunning panoramic views from this ancient fortress. The interactive museum showcases objects once belonging to Roman soldiers, and the mini-cinema will take you on a journey through time.

For spectacular views of Hadrian’s wall, take a short drive to Steel Rigg and treat yourself to some of the best viewpoints on Hadrian’s Wall. This is also the closest car park to Sycamore gap, a must-see on any trip to Hadrian’s Wall.

Just a short walk from Steel Rigg Car Park you can see the Wall snaking up and along the crags, with the lake of Crag Lough in the distance.

Crag Lough was formed by glaciers in the last Ice Age and is one of the four Roman Wall Loughs. The other three are Broomlee, Greenlee and Halleypike.

The Sill, named after the nearby internationally-renowned geological feature, the Great Whin Sill, is the UK’s National Landscape Discovery Centre at Once Brewed in the Northumberland National Park. It is an iconic new building that harmoniously reflects the distinctiveness of the Northumbrian landscape in both its shape and the materials used in its construction.

Its centrepiece is a beautiful Whin Sill grass roof, planted to replicate the unique natural grasslands of the surrounding area. The Sill’s fully accessible living roof sweeps gently upwards, giving visitors a bird’s eye vantage point across one of the UK’s most magnificent landscapes and the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Hadrian’s Wall.

Haltwhistle is perfectly placed for anyone planning to walk some or all of this 268-mile world-famous trail through the finest upland scenery in England. While the trail skirts the town, it is easy to leave the trail and walk to The Old School House and then resume your journey after a good night's rest, sorting your kit and a hearty breakfast.

The Old School House is perfectly placed for anyone planning to walk part, or indeed all, of the 84 miles from coast to coast following the World Heritage Site of Hadrian's Wall, past Roman settlements and forts. There's history every step of the way, and a warm welcome, super comfortable beds, excellent facilities and a wonderful breakfast to set you up for the next stage of the Trail.

National Route 72 stretches the length of Hadrian's Wall World Heritage Site in the North of England and passes through Haltwhistle. Magnificent coastal views, breathtaking countryside, roman forts and museums, inspiring modern attractions, quaint villages and attractive market towns, all set in a World Heritage Site: this cycle route has it all!

You will ride through some of England's most dramatic and wild countryside where you can get away from it all and enjoy the freedom of cycling in this unspoilt area. We have secure cycle storage and repair facilities as well as all the comforts of a top Bed & Breakfast.