The best road cycling routes around Carlatton

At this small sacred monument, there are several reasons why cyclists should not pass by carelessly, but should linger for a moment: Firstly, the church, together with the surrounding cemetery and the 'Bewcastle Cross' standing on the grounds, form a very harmonious unit. Secondly, when contemplating this cross, one looks far back into history, as its creation is dated to the 7th or 8th century. Thirdly, however – and mainly (!) – the artistic design of the obelisk, which rises to about the lower eaves of the church roof, tapering slightly upwards, is extremely noteworthy ('Amy' and 'Joe' have already described this in their contributions). My personal conclusion: Although the actual cross, which once crowned the obelisk, has long been missing, it is still a noteworthy small sacred monument!

Well, we got here nearly at the end of our Hadrian's Wall hike for the day and had a bit of bad luck. Fancy turning up at one of the best Roman forts on Hadrian's Wall to be told it was closed because the wind was too strong and it might blow us off the wall. A place to come back to.

Askerton Castle is a rare example of a fortified medieval manor house, situated in remote north Cumbria, about three miles north of Hadrian's Wall. The original building was constructed around 1290 as an unfortified hall, but in the late 15th century, two battlemented towers—the Dacre Tower and the Dovecot Tower—were added by Thomas, Lord Dacre, as part of a border defense against the notorious Border Reivers. In the 16th century, the complex was expanded with a stable block and additional wings for troop accommodation. A third tower on the northwest corner is believed to have been lost, possibly to fire, but traces of its stonework and staircases are still visible in the walls. The structure contains impressive oak beams, dated between 1494 and 1510, and shows clear stages of architectural evolution—from a simple hall to a military stronghold. Although the castle is not open to the public, it is now part of the Askerton Castle Estate, an organic farm that produces beef, lamb, pork, and poultry. The building is a Grade I listed building, indicating its exceptional historical value.

St Cuthbert Bewcastle Church stands on the foundations of a Roman fort and has roots dating back to the 13th century. Although the current building largely dates from the 18th and 19th centuries, parts of the east chancel are still medieval. The church exudes simplicity and tranquility, with a rectangular plan and a wooden gallery on the west side. Within the church, traces of the Border Reivers' turbulent history can be found, including gravestones bearing names like Armstrong and Routledge.

On a strategic rise above the River Irthing lies Birdoswald Roman Fort (Banna), one of the best-preserved forts along Hadrian's Wall. Built around 122 AD, it housed troops from countries including Dacia (modern-day Romania) and played a key role in defending the northwestern border of the Roman Empire. The fort lies on the longest continuous stretch of Hadrian's Wall still visible. Within the ruins, you'll find the remains of barracks, granaries, gates, and even a unique Roman drill hall. The visitor center offers interactive exhibits and original artifacts, including altars and inscriptions. Birdoswald is an ideal rest stop for cyclists following the Hadrian's Cycleway. The tearoom and the view make it a pleasant stop with historical depth.

Hadrian's Wall was a 117 km long defensive wall built from 122 AD under Emperor Hadrian as the northwestern border of the Roman Empire. The wall ran from the Tyne to the Solway Firth, its central section following the natural ridge of the Whin Sill, a hard dolerite geological formation. This location offered Roman troops a tactical advantage: high ground with wide visibility and natural defenses. The wall served to control movement, delay incursions, and demonstrate Roman power. Here, next to Birdoswald Fort, you'll find the longest remaining section of the historic wall.

This impressive Augustinian priory, founded around 1169, is just a stone's throw from Hadrian's Wall. Its ruins tell stories of kings, wars, and pilgrims. King Edward I stayed here in 1306 during his final campaign against the Scots, and Robert the Bruce later attacked the monastery. The church ruins still stand tall, with a dramatic triple-arched structure. Built partly with stones from Hadrian's Wall, they include Roman inscriptions. Inside, you'll find the Lanercost Cross (1214) and the Lanercost Dossal, a work of art designed by William Morris.

How Mill is a small village, it seems the only prominent feature is the railway crossing. I was surprised at how quick the barriers went up and down, hardly any waiting