Hadrian's Wall, Housesteads Fort

Although a short ramble from Housesteads Fort past Milecastle 37 to the Wall at Hotbank near Turret 37B there are steep and rocky sections to negotiate.  Even the well-made path from the car park to Housesteds is 1:4 and challenges many walkers.

Leave the car park to the left of the National Trust Visitor Centre through two large field gates as the 'normal' way has a small kissing gate.
Soon after leaving the second gate, turn right across the grass to re-join the main path. The path drops steeply down then climbs steeply up all the way to the museum.

There is a nice new disabled toilet inside the museum but you will need to ask at the counter for access – there are no signs and the English Heritage staff like to keep its existence secret in case people want to use it! There are also two normal porta-cabin loos in the disabled car park just below the museum. An additional accessible portaloo has been promised by English Heritage.

The challenge now is to gain the old Roman Road some 50 feet above the buildings There is no proper path so you need to pick your way up the steep bank. Once on the  old Roman Military Way turn left and continue on an easy track through a gate and on westwards. Soon a short track branches off to the right to Milecastle 37 which can be entered by a Tramper.

The main path now had a couple of challenges. A step up through a gateway – take it on the left side – and a steep and rocky descent for about 50 yards. Tackling this bank on the way back is 'interesting' and best done with a helper behind to ensure you don’t tip backwards. After this the path is straightforward. As you meet a stand of trees on the left below there is a path up to the right which takes you right up to the wall.

On return to the museum, if you wish to visit the fort ask the reception people to open a gate to give you access. English Heritage or National Trust membership required for free access. Carers get free admission with you.