Nature and Landscape in Hadrian's Wall Country
There’s only one way to experience the dramatic impact of Hadrian’s Wall Country and that’s to ‘get out there’.
Two feet or two wheels? Hadrian’s Wall Path National Trail along with Hadrian’s Cycleway make enjoying the scenery a breeze. And they’ll do you a world of good into the bargain.
Everywhere, frankly, is a revelation. Try teetering on the edge of the Empire out of the Solway Firth (inspirational views guaranteed). Gaze out at the North Pennines, the ‘backbone of England’. Let the waves of tranquillity wash over you in Northumberland – now officially the most tranquil place in Britain (yes, there’s even a ‘tranquillity map’ to prove it!). The Northumberland National Park has majesty, serenity and some of the best-preserved sections of the Wall - unbeatable.
Looming out of the landscape, Great Whin Sill isn’t just a marvel of nature but a force of nature. You may be blown off your feet, but it’s the view that’ll take your breath away. This glorious geological phenomenon includes Winshield Crags (they’re stupendously… well, craggy) and presides over a wild, spectacular setting. The Romans knew beauty when they saw it.
In contour contrast, the Solway Coast Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty is incredibly flat. But flat is good. Flat means salt marsh, sand dunes and outstanding marine life. The bird population here is so totally overwhelming that even Bill Oddie would be rendered speechless. Wildlife is generally pretty abundant everywhere and includes the rare red squirrels that inhabit the Cumbrian and Northumberland forests. They’re obviously good at keeping tranquillity a secret.
