Hadrian's Wall: Day Trips and Tours from Edinburgh

Exchange the bustling streets of Edinburgh for the great expanses of Northumberland where Hadrian’s Wall stands as a testament to almost 2000 years of history unfolding across the British Isles.

The wall once served as a defense force for the Roman province of Britannia and remains one of the best-preserved Roman walls in the world.  

Immerse yourself in history as you walk during your Hadrian's Wall Day Trip from Edinburgh, marvel at the archaeological sites, and uncover the stories of Roman soldiers who once guarded this formidable barrier.

Here's all you need to know about Hadrian's Wall, one of the most exciting day trips from Edinburgh.

How to get to Hadrian’s Wall from Edinburgh?

Hadrian’s Wall stretches from coast to coast as Brittain's narrowest point, just south of the Scottish border.

From Edinburgh to Hadrian’s Wall by car

Follow the A702 south out of Edinburgh and follow it as it becomes the A74(M) and eventually the M6. Just outside of Carlisle, you will turn left onto the A689 towards Brampton and continue until you reach the wall. The journey takes about 2.5 hours from Edinburgh, covering 180 kilometers.

Guided tour to Hadrian’s Wall from Edinburgh

A guided full-day trip to Hadrian’s Wall is the best way to fully experience the countryside of the region, delve into the historic value of the wall and see a few more charming stops along the way.

What is the typical itinerary?

The most popular day trips to Hadrian’s Wall start with a visit to Jedburgh with its impressive 12th-century Augustinian abbey and a stop at Carter Bar, the English-Scottish border. You will then discover the Roman legacy at Steel Rigg, a renowned archaeological site along Hadrian's Wall.

Take in the monumental 117 km structure and learn about Roman presence in ancient Britain. Explore Vindolanda's Roman Army museum and take a break for lunch before visiting Birdoswald, a well-preserved Roman fort along the wall. Some tours include a stop in the Victorian spa town of Moffat for a quick visit before returning to Edinburgh.

Alternatively, you can book a day tour to Hadrian’s Wall that starts with a visit to Rosslyn Chapel from Da Vinci Code fame. You can also take a walk through the glen to Rosslyn Castle’s ruins. After that, you will visit the quaint town of Melrose where you can enjoy lunch before continuing to Hadrian’s Wall.

What kinds of tours are available to go to Hadrian's Wall?

Join a small group day tour to Hadrian’s Wall or upgrade your experience to a private tour for a more intimate experience:

Guided tours to Hadrian’s Wall from Edinburgh

The most popular way to take on an excursion to Hadrian’s Wall is a small guided group tour. These tours offer you the opportunity to explore several points of interest along the way and get the most out of your day in Northumberland. Some tours include the cost of entry in the tour fee while others let you choose which sites you would like to enter along the way and pay as you arrive. The tours follow a relaxed pace and you will have plenty of time at each stop to roam around and enjoy the great outdoors of Northern England.

Private tour to Hadrian’s Wall from Edinburgh

The most luxurious way to experience Hadrian’s Wall is with a private day trip from Edinburgh. Your visit will start with pick-up from your hotel or the cruise ship port and your knowledgeable local tour guide will take you to all the top sites in the comfort of a private minivan. You will have Wi-Fi access on board and the luxury of customizing your itinerary based on your interests.

How much does a day trip to Hadrian's Wall from Edinburgh cost?

Day tours to Hadrian’s Wall cost between £80 and £90 per person. There is roughly a 10% discount for children but this rate differs between tour operators. Visiting Hadrian’s Wall is free but some tours require you to pay an extra fee to visit extra sites along the way. You are free to choose which attractions you want to visit once you arrive. You will need to buy your own lunch but your tour guide will provide you with a complimentary bottle of water.

When you book a private day tour to Hadrian’s Wall, you get the added bonus of hotel pick-up and drop-off.

What will you see and do?

A day trip to Hadrian’s Wall isn’t simply a one-stop adventure. There are several fascinating attractions along the way that give you insight into the vast history of Britannia:

Vindolanda's Roman Army Museum

Step into the fascinating world of ancient Rome at Vindolanda's Roman Army Museum. Learn about the daily lives of the Roman soldiers stationed along Hadrian's Wall through engaging exhibits and interactive displays. Discover artifacts unearthed at the Vindolanda site, including letters, tools, and personal belongings that provide insights into the Roman military presence in Britain.

Hadrian's Wall

Marvel at the monumental Hadrian's Wall, a UNESCO World Heritage Site that stretches across the rugged countryside. Built by Emperor Hadrian in the 2nd century AD, this awe-inspiring fortification once marked the northern frontier of the Roman Empire. Walk along the well-preserved sections of the wall, soak in the breathtaking landscapes, and imagine the Roman soldiers who stood guard atop this iconic structure.

Augustinian Abbey in Jedburgh

Visit the majestic Augustinian Abbey in Jedburgh, a captivating medieval ruin that showcases the rich architectural heritage of Scotland. Admire the intricate stonework and grandeur of this historic abbey, which dates back to the 12th century. Explore the tranquil grounds and delve into the abbey's fascinating history, from its religious significance to its turbulent past during border conflicts.

Birdoswald

Immerse yourself in the captivating atmosphere of Birdoswald, one of the best-preserved Roman forts along Hadrian's Wall. Walk through the ancient ruins and visualize the bustling life within the fort during Roman times. Take in the panoramic views of the surrounding countryside and gain a deeper understanding of the fortification's strategic importance in guarding the Roman frontier.

Rosslyn Chapel

Discover the enigmatic beauty of Rosslyn Chapel, a masterpiece of Gothic architecture nestled in the Scottish countryside. Marvel at the intricate carvings that adorn every corner of this 15th-century chapel, each with its own symbolic meaning and intriguing legends. Explore the chapel's rich history, including its connections to the Knights Templar and the Holy Grail, and let the enchanting ambiance transport you to another era.

When is the best time to visit Hadrian's Wall?

The best time to visit Hadrian's Wall is during the spring and summer months, from April to September. During this time, the weather is nice and the days are longer, allowing you to explore the site comfortably.

Travel tips

• Plan your visit in advance and check the opening hours of the different sections and attractions along Hadrian's Wall.
• Wear comfortable shoes and dress in layers, as the weather can change quickly in Scotland.
• Pack snacks and water, as facilities may be limited in some areas.
• Respect the historical significance of the site and refrain from damaging or removing any artifacts.