Top Tips from people who've walked the Trail

King Arthur's Well view West [Photographer: J Howorth]

The following tips and suggestions were offered by previous Trail walkers.  They should stand you in good stead for your walk along the National Trail.  (Any further tips for future editions of the Hadrian's Wall Path Essential Companion will be gratefully received - please e-mail David McGlade, Trail Manager.)

  1. Book your accommodation beforehand.  If you turn up without a booking during the main season you risk being disappointed.
  2. Carry a cheque book.  Not all accommodation providers, cafes and shops accept debit and credit cards.  Also, plan ahead and note where the many banks, cash point machines, Post Offices and shops that provide a cash-back service are.
  3. It is not an easy walk.  Some guidebook and magazine articles have described the Trail as "not a challenge walk" but it is much more difficult than many people imagine it to be.  The section between Chollerford and Birdoswald, some 23 miles and for the most part a switchback with seemingly endless ups and downs, usually sorts out the fit from the un-fit.
  4. Know where your can access public transport and carry the necessary timetables.
  5. The quietest time for visitors during the summer is outside of the school holidays.  This means avoiding the last week of July, all of August and the first week of September.
  6. In the interests of conserving the Path and ancient monument, the best time to walk the Trail is from May to October.  This is the time when the ground is normally drier and able to withstand the pressure of thousands of pairs of feet.  The Trail passport also operates only during this period.
  7. If you are an independent traveller the best time to walk the Trail is when the AD122 Hadrian's Wall bus operates a daily service, as it connects the route with most of the nearby towns and villages.  Outside of the main bus season you will find it more difficult to plan your itinerary.
  8. When booking accommodation check to see if a pick-up and drop-off service is provided.
  9. Most people begin their holiday on a Saturday or Sunday.  By starting on a weekday you might avoid some of the crowds and find it easier to book your accommodation.
  10. Carry your mobile phone with you.  Use it to phone ahead to order sandwiches from the many cafes or to meet your pre-arranged pick-ups.
  11. The occassional Internet facility along the Trail is useful for checking the weather forecast, and for tidal flooding on the Solway marshes.
  12. Make sure that you know when the Solway marshes are likely to be subject to tidal flooding.  Tide Predictions for the Solway Coast.
  13. If you use the Tyneside Metro have change ready for the ticket machines, there are no ticket offices at the stations outside the City Centre.  Metro Timetables.
  14. The route is very exposed to the sun and there is very little shade to be had.  Carry a hat and sun screens.
  15. If you are a member of either English Heritage or the National Trust, remember to pack your membership cards as there are several sites in the area.
  16. Midges can sometimes be a problem! Carry a suitable insect repellent.
  17. The 12 miles on Tyneside are on Tarmac paths that can be unforgiving on your feet.  You might prefer to wear soft shoes or trainers for this section.  In any case carry a blister repair kit.
  18. Don't forget to pack your map and/or guidebook!