Chester Roman Fort and Museum, Hexham

Museum and Roman Fort in Hexham

Public Domain / Steven Fruitsmaak

Cilurnum, better known today as Chesters Roman Fort, is one of the best places to visit in Walwick for travellers exploring Hadrian’s Wall. Built in 123 AD, just after the wall’s completion, this remarkably preserved Roman cavalry fort once guarded the important crossing of the River North Tyne. Its impressive remains, riverside setting, and fascinating museum showcasing artefacts from across the frontier make it a highlight of any walking tour of Walwick and the wider Hadrian’s Wall corridor.

The fort’s origins lie in the military strategy of early Roman Britain, when cavalry units were stationed here to patrol the frontier and launch retaliatory raids into northern tribal territories. With clearly visible barracks, bathhouse remains, and monumental bridge abutments on the riverbank, Cilurnum gives visitors a vivid sense of life on the frontier. The combination of archaeology, landscape, and storytelling makes this spot one of the top sights in Walwick.

History and Significance of Cilurnum
Things to See and Do in Cilurnum
How to Get to Cilurnum
Practical Tips on Visiting Cilurnum
Where to Stay close to Cilurnum
Add a Is Cilurnum Worth Visiting?
FAQs for Visiting Cilurnum
Nearby Attractions to Cilurnum

History and Significance of Cilurnum (Chesters Roman Fort)

Cilurnum appears in the Notitia Dignitatum as an important cavalry base along Hadrian’s Wall. Its construction in 123 AD marked a strengthening of Rome’s newly defined frontier, with the fort positioned to defend the bridge that carried the Military Way across the River North Tyne. Massive stone abutments of this bridge still survive, offering rare insight into Roman engineering and transport networks.

The fort was originally home to the ala Augusta ob virtutem appellata, an honoured cavalry wing encouraged by Hadrian himself as part of the Cult of Disciplina. Later, infantry units such as Cohors I Delmatarum from the Balkans and Cohors I Vangionum from the Upper Rhineland were stationed here, demonstrating Cilurnum’s shifting military role over time. These inscriptions give a remarkable picture of the fort’s diverse garrison, composed of soldiers from across the Roman world.

Over the centuries, many structural elements were removed or repurposed locally. Four large Roman columns believed to originate from Cilurnum now support the south aisle of St Giles Church in nearby Chollerton. Excavations and preservation by English Heritage have since stabilised the fort’s remains, transforming it into one of the most informative archaeological sites along Hadrian’s Wall.

Things to See and Do in Cilurnum (Chesters Roman Fort)

Visitors can explore the fort’s extensive ruins, including the well-preserved bathhouse close to the riverbank. These chambers offer an unusually clear layout, making it easy to imagine daily routines of Roman cavalrymen stationed far from home. Barracks, administrative buildings, and gatehouses further outline the fort’s structure.

The remains of Chesters Bridge are among the site’s most striking features. Massive, stone-built abutments on both banks serve as silent reminders of the impressive engineering that supported frontier transport and communication. Standing here with the River North Tyne flowing beneath you, it’s easy to understand why the Romans chose this strategic location.

The on-site museum is another highlight, housing one of the richest collections of artefacts found on Hadrian’s Wall. Items range from altars and inscriptions to tools, personal belongings, and religious objects. These pieces add depth and humanity to the physical ruins outside.

How to Get to Cilurnum (Chesters Roman Fort)

The nearest major airport is Newcastle International Airport, which provides easy access to Hadrian’s Wall and the Northumberland countryside. For the best deals and a seamless booking experience, check out these flights to Hexham on Booking.com.

Train travellers can reach the area via Hexham or Corbridge railway stations, both of which connect to Newcastle and Carlisle, making onward travel straightforward. Train schedules and bookings can be found on Omio.

Travelling by car is the simplest way to reach Cilurnum, with the fort located just off the B6318 Military Road and well signposted from the surrounding area. Parking is available on-site, making visits convenient.

Practical Tips on Visiting Cilurnum (Chesters Roman Fort)

Suggested tips: Bring good walking shoes, as the ground can be uneven and grassy.
Best time to visit: Late spring to early autumn offers the most comfortable conditions for exploring the outdoor remains.
Entrance fee: Adult: £10.00
Opening hours: Summer: 10.00 - 17.00
Winter: 10.00 - 16.00
Official website: https://www.english-heritage.org.uk/visit/places/chesters-roman-fort-and-museum-hadrians-wall/
How long to spend: Plan 1-2 hours to explore the ruins, museum, and bridge abutments.
Accessibility: Paths vary from flat to uneven; some areas near the river may be challenging.
Facilities: Toilets, a small shop, and museum facilities are available on-site.
Photography tip: Capture the bathhouse ruins in morning light for the best detail and shadows.
Guided tours: English Heritage occasionally offers guided tours, especially during themed events.
Nearby food options: Hexham and Chollerford offer cafés and pubs with convenient dining choices.

Where to Stay close to Cilurnum (Chesters Roman Fort)

The surrounding area offers several cosy accommodation options. Nearby Chollerford provides good access, with The George Hotel offering riverside views and easy reach of the fort. A slightly more upscale option is Wydon Farm B&B, set on a working farm and ideal for exploring Hadrian’s Wall attractions.

Add a Is Cilurnum Worth Visiting?

Yes, Cilurnum is absolutely worth visiting. Its extensive ruins, exceptional bathhouse, river setting, and excellent museum make it one of the most rewarding sites along Hadrian’s Wall. Whether you’re a history enthusiast or a casual visitor, the combination of landscape and archaeology creates a memorable experience.

What Other Travellers Say...

Reviews Summary

4.7 (1,732)

Chesters Roman Fort and Museum - Hadrian's Wall, at B6318, Chollerford, Hexham NE46 4EU, offers well-preserved English Heritage Roman fort ruins spread across a large site with informative interpretation panels and a small museum displaying finds; visitors praise the setting, the impressive boathouse remains and bathhouse, and recommend the free guided talks and longer guided walks led by enthusiastic, knowledgeable volunteers which bring the site to life; on-site facilities include a small café, toilets, a viewing platform over the bridge and paid parking (free for members).

Duncan Parsons

2 months ago

"A glorious setting. A remarkable museum. And further evidence of the astonishing commitment, labour and skill involved in the enterprise. It just isalmost incomprehensible and inspiring. It must have been a sight worth seeing when intact. One comes away from this place grateful that so much has survived and on display. Sorry that so much has gone, while understanding how the Wall could come to be seen as a handy quarry...."

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Jackie Robinson

4 months ago

"Excellent ruins unearthed at Chesters, the boathouse in amazing. If you get a chance to have Neil as a guide, take it. He's brilliant, passionate,knowledgeable and friendly. 2hr guided walk. Free. Car parking £4 for non members free for members. Didn't get chance to go in museum. There's a tea rooms on site and toilets. Lots of sign boards. Viewing platform for the bridge. site. We will be returning with more time...."

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Julia Barrow

4 months ago

"Absolutely fabulous hour and a half at this lovely gem. Neil did a wonderful guided tour which lasted about an hour and a half and really brought theplace to life with his wit and enthusiasm! Absolutely fabulous. We had to leave before he got to the bath house, so we'll definitely return!..."

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FAQs for Visiting Cilurnum (Chesters Roman Fort)

Yes, entry to the museum is included with admission to the fort.

Most visitors spend between one and two hours.

Yes, the abutments are accessible via short paths from the fort.

Nearby Attractions to Cilurnum (Chesters Roman Fort)

Housesteads Roman Fort: One of the largest and most dramatic forts along Hadrian’s Wall.
Corbridge Roman Town: A substantial Roman settlement south of the wall with impressive remains.
Vindolanda: A major archaeological site known for its finds, including writing tablets.
Chollerton Church (St Giles): Home to reused Roman columns believed to originate from Cilurnum.
Brocolitia Roman Temple: A Mithraic temple set in a remote and atmospheric location.

The Chester Roman Fort and Museum appears in our Complete Guide to Visiting Hexham!

Moira & Andy

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