Top 4 Castles around Henshaw
Best castles around Henshaw are situated near Hadrian's Wall, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, offering a glimpse into Roman and medieval history. The area features historical fortifications, including Roman milecastles and bastle houses. This region provides a connection to the challenging daily life of border communities and Roman soldiers. The landscape offers opportunities for exploration along ancient routes.
Best castles around Henshaw
- The most popular castles is Thirlwall Castle Ruins, a historical site built during the 12th Century using…
Last updated: June 20, 2026
Milecastle 39 (Castle Nick) on Hadrian's Wall
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Thirlwall Castle Ruins
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Roman Vindolanda Fort and Museum
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Cawfields Milecastle 42, Hadrian's Wall
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Ruins of Staward Peel
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Milecastle 39 is a super scenic and impressive place. It is a well-preserved Milecastle on Hadrian’s Wall. It is immediately to the west of the Sycamore Gap and is just one of many outstanding features on this stretch of wall.
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Milecastle 42 is one of those spots on Hadrian’s Wall that feels like you’ve just stumbled on a hidden gem. It’s not huge, but that’s part of the charm – you can properly picture the Roman soldiers posted here, staring out across the wild Northumberland landscape and wondering what on earth they’d signed up for. The views are cracking, the ruins are well-marked, and it gives you that instant connection to history without being swamped by crowds. A quick stop, but a memorable one – exactly what you want on a wall walk.
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🏛️ Vindolanda Fort is one of the most fascinating Roman archaeological sites in Britain. Built around 85 AD and rebuilt nine times, Vindolanda was an important military stronghold before and during the construction of Hadrian's Wall. The highlight of the discovery were the Vindolanda Tablets – wooden tablets containing personal letters, shopping lists, and even birthday party invitations. They are the oldest handwritten documents in Britain. On site, you'll see the remains of forts, bathhouses, barracks, and a Roman village (vicus), replicas of Roman buildings and sections of Hadrian's Wall, and a modern museum with thousands of artifacts: shoes, toys, weapons, jewelry, and more. 🍵 Visitor facilities: Café, shop, guided tours, and listening posts with explanations.
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This tower was positioned at a strategic defensive point atop the River Allen as it passes through Steward Gorge, within the current National Trust property of Allen Banks & Staward Gorge. The origins of this tower date back to the early 14th century, and since then, it has endured over time to its current ruined state, being listed as Grade II.
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The ruins of Staward Peel, are situated on top of a hill which over looks the River Allen as it flows through Staward Gorge.
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Vindolanda was a Roman fort that was occupied from the late 80s AD to the early 5th century AD. It is one of the best-preserved Roman forts in England, and has been the site of extensive archaeological excavations. The excavations have uncovered a wealth of artifacts, including weapons, armor, tools, and pottery. They have also revealed the remains of the fort's buildings, including the barracks, headquarters, and bathhouse. One of the most significant discoveries at Vindolanda is the Vindolanda tablets. These are a collection of wooden tablets that were written on by the soldiers and civilians who lived at the fort. The tablets contain a wide range of information about everyday life at Vindolanda, including letters, invitations, and shopping lists. The Vindolanda tablets are a unique and valuable source of information about Roman life on Hadrian's Wall. They provide us with a glimpse into the world of the Roman soldiers and civilians who lived and worked at the fort. Vindolanda is a popular tourist destination, and the museum on site houses a collection of artifacts from the fort, including the Vindolanda tablets. The museum also has a number of interactive exhibits that teach visitors about the history of the fort and the life of the Romans on Hadrian's Wall.
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Originally built in the 12th century, and later strengthened using stones from nearby Hadrian’s Wall, Thirlwall Castle began to fall into disrepair in the 17th century. The site is protected by Grade I listed building and Scheduled Ancient Monument status. In 1999, Northumberland National Park Authority acquired a 99-year lease on Thirlwall Castle and 10 hectares of adjacent woodland. This is a great historic vista for the eyes for passing runners and why don't you come back for a picnic in the grounds when your not huffing and puffing so much.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What types of historical fortifications can I explore around Henshaw?
Around Henshaw, you can explore a unique blend of historical fortifications. These include Roman auxiliary forts like Roman Vindolanda Fort and Museum and Housesteads Roman Fort, which are part of Hadrian's Wall. You'll also find medieval castle ruins such as Thirlwall Castle Ruins and Ruins of Staward Peel, alongside distinctive 16th and 17th-century bastle houses, which were fortified farmhouses built to defend against border raiders.
Are there family-friendly historical sites near Henshaw?
Yes, Roman Vindolanda Fort and Museum is an excellent family-friendly option. It offers excavated ruins, a museum with fascinating artifacts like the Vindolanda Tablets, and replicas of Roman buildings. It's a great place for all ages to learn about Roman life on Hadrian's Wall.
What is the best time of year to visit the castles and forts around Henshaw?
The best time to visit is generally from spring to autumn (April to October) when the weather is milder and the days are longer, making outdoor exploration more enjoyable. Winter visits are possible, but be prepared for colder temperatures, shorter daylight hours, and potentially challenging walking conditions, especially on exposed sections of Hadrian's Wall.
What outdoor activities can I combine with visiting these historical sites?
The area around Henshaw is perfect for combining history with outdoor activities. You can enjoy extensive hiking along the Hadrian's Wall Path, which passes by many Roman sites. There are also numerous running trails and gravel biking routes. For more details on routes, check out the hiking guide, running guide, and gravel biking guide for Henshaw.
Are there any less crowded historical sites to visit near Henshaw?
While popular sites like Vindolanda and Housesteads can attract crowds, you might find Thirlwall Castle Ruins or the Ruins of Staward Peel to be less crowded, especially during off-peak hours or weekdays. Exploring the numerous bastle house ruins scattered across the region also offers a quieter, more intimate historical experience.
Can I bring my dog to the historical sites and walks around Henshaw?
Many outdoor areas and walking trails, including sections of Hadrian's Wall Path, are dog-friendly. However, specific rules may apply at managed historical sites like Roman Vindolanda Fort and Museum or Housesteads Roman Fort, where dogs might be restricted to certain areas or require leashes. Always check individual site regulations before your visit. The Ruins of Staward Peel are noted as dog-friendly.
Where can I find scenic viewpoints near the historical sites?
For spectacular panoramic views, visit Housesteads Roman Fort, which is set high on a dramatic escarpment on Hadrian's Wall. The area around Milecastle 40 (Winshields), near the highest point of Hadrian's Wall, also offers breathtaking vistas, especially for hikers.
What is the historical significance of bastle houses in the Henshaw area?
Bastle houses, like Tow House Bastle near Henshaw, are fortified farmhouses from the 16th and 17th centuries, unique to the Anglo-Scottish border region. They were built out of necessity to protect families and livestock from reivers (border raiders) during a turbulent period. Visiting them offers a tangible connection to the challenging daily life of border communities.
Are there public transport options to reach the castles and forts near Henshaw?
Public transport options to some sites along Hadrian's Wall, such as Vindolanda and Housesteads, are available, often via the Hadrian's Wall Bus (AD122). However, reaching more remote sites or bastle houses might require a car or a combination of bus and walking. It's advisable to check local bus schedules and routes in advance.
What should I pack for a visit to the historical sites around Henshaw?
Given the often exposed nature of the sites and the potential for varied weather, it's recommended to pack layers of clothing, waterproof outerwear, sturdy walking shoes or boots, and plenty of water. Sun protection is also advisable during warmer months. If you plan on hiking, consider bringing a map and compass or a GPS device.
What makes Roman Vindolanda Fort and Museum a unique historical experience?
Roman Vindolanda Fort and Museum is unique because it's one of Britain's most fascinating Roman archaeological sites, with nine forts built on top of each other. It's famous for the discovery of the Vindolanda Tablets, the oldest handwritten documents in Britain, offering personal insights into Roman life. Visitors can explore extensive excavated ruins, including bathhouses and barracks, and see a modern museum housing thousands of artifacts.
Are there pubs or cafes near the historical sites for refreshments?
Yes, several pubs and cafes are located near the main historical sites. For example, Roman Vindolanda Fort and Museum has its own café. The Twice Brewed Inn is also a popular spot near Hadrian's Wall, offering refreshments and accommodation. You'll find other options in nearby villages, particularly along the Hadrian's Wall corridor.
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