Hadrian's wall

This wild and beautiful glacial lough behind Hadrian's Wall is a National Nature Reserve and European Special Area of Conservation. The site includes fen woodland, blanket bog and wetland and is rich with wildlife. It is home to the rare marsh cinquefoil, to otters and to a wide range of bird life, especially winter migrating birds. Greenlee has a bird hide and 500 metre boardwalk through the reed beds.

Cawfields Quarry illustrates the long history of mineral extraction, stone pilfering and military ‘vandalism’ along Hadrian’s Wall — usually with scant regard for the unique archaeology of the area. The early 20th century quarry cuts straight through the Wall, exposing the underlying dolerite bedrock of the Whin Sill. More recently, the icy-fresh water of the quarry has been used for diving courses when it gets cold enough — and strictly by permission. Today, with its peaceful lake and dramatic, man-made landscape, Cawfields is a great place to start a walk along Hadrian’s Wall, whether east to Caw Gap and Steel Rigg, or west to Walltown and the Roman Army Museum. There are toilets but no café at Cawfields Quarry, so get something to eat at the nearby Milecastle Inn — or let us pack you a picnic. At Go Hadrian’s Wall we have a range of vehicles, and provide flexible travel for any number of people, up to and including groups of 20 or more. Go Hadrian’s Wall — dive into history

The Sill: National Landscape Discovery Centre is Northumberland National Park's visitor centre that will excite and inspire people of all ages to explore the landscape, history, culture and heritage of Northumberland. The Sill features exhibitions, learning and event spaces, a local food café, a world-class Youth Hostel and a shop specialising in local crafts and produce.