Hadrian's challenge

So, our challenge is to walk 84 miles (134km) over 6 days. Details of our schedule are set out below.

To find out more about the legendary Hadrian's Wall take a look at www.hadrians-wall.org.

Or, alternatively, consult our resident Ceasar of interesting facts and historical trivia (the equally legendary "Hoops").

14 April - Arrive Wallsend/Newcastle-upon-Tyne
15 April - to Heddon-on-the-Wall/Wylam = 15 miles (24 km)
16 April - to Chollerford/Wall/Humshaugh = 15 miles (24 km)
17 April - to Once Brewed = 12 miles (19 km)
18 April - to Lanercost = 14.5 miles (23 km)
19 April - to Carlisle = 13 miles (21 km)
20 April - to Bowness-on-Solway = 14.5 miles (23 km) 
And it's all thanks to a certain Emperor Hadrian

Hadrian was the 14th Emperor of the Roman Empire. In 122 Hadrian initiated the construction of a wall to separate Romans from Barbarians. It deterred attacks on Roman territory and controlled cross boarder trade and immigration. Due to the lack of suitable wood in the area, the wall required a stone construction. The western third of the wall was built of turf because of the lack of suitable building stone. 

And not only that, did you know... 
  • Hadrians Wall measured 73 miles long which was equivalent to 80 Roman miles
  • A Roman mile was 5000 feet (1524 meters)
  • The Roman mile originates from the Latin word 'Mille' meaning a thousand
  • A Roman mile was the distance a Roman legion could march in 1000 paces ( equivalent to 2000 steps )
  • The Modern mile is longer - 8 furlongs, 80 chains, 320 rods, 1760 yards or 5280 feet
But what else have the Romans ever done for us? Check out the following educational film:





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