Hadrians Wall & the Borders Tour From Edinburgh Incl. Admission

This captivating tour from Edinburgh promises to uncover the rich history and stunning landscapes of Hadrian’s Wall. Guided by an expert, the small group will explore well-preserved sections of the UNESCO-listed ancient Roman frontier, learning about its strategic significance. Beyond the wall, the journey continues, revealing the captivating ruins of Jedburgh Abbey and the impressive Vindolanda Roman Fort. But the tour’s true highlight might just be the border crossing at Carter Bar, where the cultural and geographical divide between England and Scotland comes into sharp focus within the breathtaking Northumberland National Park. There’s much more to discover on this immersive adventure.

Key Points

• This full-day tour from Edinburgh explores the historic Hadrian’s Wall, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, with a small group led by an expert driver-guide.
• Visitors will walk along well-preserved sections of the Wall at Steel Rigg, explore the Roman fort at Vindolanda, and marvel at the England-Scotland border crossing at Carter Bar.
• The tour includes a visit to the impressive ruins of Jedburgh Abbey, showcasing the region’s rich religious heritage and turbulent past.
• Trekking through the Northumberland National Park, travelers will see Sycamore Gap and the remains of a Roman milecastle at Cawfields Quarry.
• Entrance to the Vindolanda Roman Fort and on-site museum is included, providing a unique glimpse into the daily life of Roman soldiers.

Tour Overview

This full-day tour from Edinburgh takes visitors on a captivating journey to explore the historic Hadrian’s Wall, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, as well as other notable landmarks along the Scottish-English border.

The tour is led by an expert English-speaking driver-guide and operates in a small group of no more than 16 people, ensuring a personalized and intimate experience.

Travellers will have the chance to stroll around Jedburgh Abbey, cross the Carter Bar border, and walk along scenic sections of Hadrian’s Wall at Steel Rigg in Northumberland National Park.

The highlight of the tour is a visit to Vindolanda, the best-preserved Roman fort along the famous wall, where guests can explore the on-site museum.

Hadrian’s Wall Exploration

Hadrian’s Wall, the sprawling Roman fortification that once divided Britain, stands as a testament to the ancient empire’s engineering prowess and strategic foresight. Stretching nearly 73 miles across the rugged northern landscape, this UNESCO-recognized marvel offers visitors a captivating glimpse into the region’s rich history.

Site	Highlights
Steel Rigg	Walk along well-preserved sections of the Wall
Vindolanda	Explore the best-preserved Roman fort on Hadrian’s Wall
Jedburgh Abbey	Stroll through the impressive ruins of this medieval abbey
Carter Bar	Marvel at the border crossing between England and Scotland

This tour provides an in-depth exploration of Hadrian’s Wall, allowing travelers to enjoy the grandeur and legacy of this ancient Roman structure.

Jedburgh Abbey Visit

The tour also includes a visit to the impressive ruins of Jedburgh Abbey, a medieval monastery that stands as a testament to the region’s rich religious heritage.

Guests will have the opportunity to wander through the abbey’s ornate Gothic architecture, marveling at the intricate stone carvings and vaulted ceilings.

The site dates back to the 12th century and played a significant role in the history of the Scottish Borders.

During the visit, travelers can learn about the abbey’s turbulent past, including its destruction during the Wars of Scottish Independence.

This stop on the tour provides a glimpse into the area’s medieval past and adds depth to the overall Hadrian’s Wall experience.

Carter Bar Crossing

Leaving Jedburgh Abbey, the tour then proceeds to the Carter Bar border crossing, which marks the boundary between Scotland and England.

At this historic spot, the group will disembark and have a chance to admire the scenic views from the top of the Cheviot Hills.

The Carter Bar crossing has long served as a gateway between the two nations, with its strategic location making it a site of significance throughout history.

As the tour guide shares insights into the cultural and geographical significance of this border point, participants can take in the picturesque landscape and appreciate the importance of this symbolic location on the tour’s journey along Hadrian’s Wall.

Northumberland National Park Trek

After crossing the border into England, the tour group proceeds to explore the stunning landscapes of Northumberland National Park. Situated along the route of Hadrian’s Wall, this protected wilderness offers visitors the chance to enjoy the natural beauty and historical significance of the region.

The driver-guide leads the group on a trek along the well-preserved sections of the ancient Roman wall, offering insights into its construction and role in ancient times. The tour includes stops at:

1. Steel Rigg, a popular viewpoint overlooking the dramatic cliffs and rolling hills.
2. Sycamore Gap, a distinctive tree immortalized in the film ‘Robin Hood: Prince of Thieves.’
3. Cawfields Quarry, where the remains of a Roman milecastle can be explored.
4. Housesteads, the best-preserved Roman fort along the wall.

Vindolanda Roman Fort

Next, the tour group visits Vindolanda, considered the best-preserved Roman fort along Hadrian’s Wall.

Constructed in the 1st century AD, this archaeological site offers visitors a unique glimpse into the daily life of Roman soldiers stationed along the northern frontier of the empire.

Excavations have uncovered a wealth of artifacts, from leather shoes and wooden writing tablets to the remains of buildings, roads, and even a bathhouse, providing a remarkable window into the past.

The on-site museum displays many of these finds, bringing the Roman occupation vividly to life.

Visitors can walk along the ancient roads, explore the ruins, and learn about the history and importance of this strategic outpost that guarded the northern border of Roman Britain.

Inclusions and Exclusions

The tour includes the entrance fee to the Vindolanda Roman Army Museum, as well as the services of an English-speaking driver-guide.

However, the price doesn’t cover lunch, gratuities, or any additional admission fees not explicitly stated.

The inclusions and exclusions for this tour can be summarized as follows:

• Included: Entrance fee to Vindolanda Roman Army Museum, English-speaking driver-guide

• Not Included: Lunch, gratuities, admission fees (unless stated)

Luggage allowance: 14kg per person

Tour departs from Edinburgh Bus Station, with check-in closing 15 minutes prior to departure.

Key Tour Details

This tour, departing from Edinburgh Bus Station, is a full-day excursion that takes visitors on a small-group (maximum 16 people) journey to explore the iconic Hadrian’s Wall, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Travelers will have the chance to stroll around the impressive Jedburgh Abbey and the Carter Bar border crossing.

The tour also includes a visit to Vindolanda, the best-preserved Roman fort along Hadrian’s Wall, where guests can explore the on-site museum.

With a top-range 16-seat Mercedes mini-coach and an English-speaking driver-guide, this tour offers a comfortable and informative experience.

Guests should note the luggage allowance of 14kg per person and that the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Bring My Own Food on the Tour?

Yes, participants can bring their own food on the tour. The tour details indicate that lunch is not included, so bringing a packed lunch or snacks is allowed and encouraged to sustain energy throughout the day.

Is There a Discount for Children or Seniors?

Children under 5 years old are not permitted on the tour. For children aged 5-15 years, there’s a discounted ticket price. Unfortunately, there’s no senior discount available for this tour.

Can I Purchase Souvenirs at the Sites Visited?

Visitors can typically purchase souvenirs at the sites visited on this tour. The Vindolanda Roman Army Museum and other locations along Hadrian’s Wall likely offer a range of souvenirs and gifts related to the Roman history and culture of the region.

Is There Wi-Fi Available on the Mini-Coach?

The tour does not mention providing Wi-Fi on the mini-coach. Travelers should check with the tour operator beforehand if Wi-Fi access is important, as availability may vary. Most small group tours do not offer onboard Wi-Fi.

Can I Customize the Tour Itinerary or Schedule?

The tour operator provides a set itinerary and schedule for this tour. Customers can’t customize the tour, but they can focus on the highlights that most interest them during the stops along the way.

Recap

This captivating full-day tour from Edinburgh offers a deep dive into the rich history and stunning landscapes of Hadrian’s Wall and the Anglo-Scottish borders.

Participants will explore well-preserved sections of the UNESCO-listed Wall, discover the fascinating ruins of Jedburgh Abbey, and marvel at the cultural significance of the England-Scotland border crossing.

With an expert guide and immersive activities, this small-group experience provides an unparalleled opportunity to uncover the region’s remarkable heritage.