Banna, Roman fort near Waterhead, Great Britain
The fort stands on a triangular plateau bordered by cliffs, providing strategic views over the River Irthing and surrounding Cumbrian landscape.
Constructed around 112 AD, this military installation remained active until 500 AD as part of the defensive network along Hadrian's Wall.
The fort contained standard Roman military structures including a headquarters building, granaries, barracks, and training facilities for northern frontier soldiers.
English Heritage manages the site, which includes an interpretive center displaying archaeological findings and information about Roman military life.
Excavations between 1987 and 1992 revealed continuous occupation evidence through two timber halls from the fifth and sixth centuries.
Location: Waterhead
Operator: English Heritage
Part of: Birdoswald Roman fort and the section of Hadrian's Wall and vallum between the River Irthing and the field boundaries east of milecastle 50
Website: https://english-heritage.org.uk/visit/places/birdoswald-roman-fort-hadrians-wall
GPS coordinates: 54.98975,-2.60324
Latest update: May 14, 2025 09:35
Cumbria features medieval churches, watermills, prehistoric stone circles and Roman ruins. The region houses historic mansions like Sizergh Castle and Hutton in the Forest. Nature enthusiasts can explore limestone formations, waterfalls and Ennerdale Lake. Literature fans can visit William Wordsworth's birthplace and residence.
Borders of the Roman Empire
349 m
Hadrian's Wall
100 m
Birdoswald
6 m
Milecastle 48
1.9 km
Milecastle 49
540 m
Leahill Turret
3.3 km
Milecastle 50
869 m
Milecastle 51
2.3 km
Milecastle 47
3.4 km
Triermain Castle
2.1 km
St. Mary Magdalene's Church, Gilsland
2.1 km
Willowford Bridge
733 m
Church of St Cuthbert
2.6 km
St Cuthbert's church, Upper Denton
788 m
Poltross Burn Viaduct
1.9 km
The Hill
1.1 km
Hadrian's Wall and vallum and their associated features between Poltross Burn and the River Irthing in wall mile 48
1.3 km
Dinmont House
1.8 km
Hadrian's Wall and vallum between the field boundary west of Coombe Crag and Banks Green Cottage and the road to Lanercost at Banks in wall miles 51 and 52
3.7 km
Bastle at Upper Denton
768 m
Hadrians Wall Milecastle And Turrets Hadrians Wall, Milecastle And Turrets
2.3 km
Orchard House
1.8 km
1-4, Hall Terrace
1.8 km
Milestone West Of At Temon Bridge At Ngr Ny 6080 63660
2.7 km
Farmbuildings Situated 30 Metres North North West Of Birdoswald Farmhouse Or Tenement
28 m
Milestone East Of Low Row At Ngr Ny 59580 63080
3.7 km
Spa Villa
2.4 km
Willowford And Adjoining Farm Buildings
993 mReviews
Visited this place? Tap the stars to rate it and share your experience / photos with the community! Try now! You can cancel it anytime.
Discover hidden gems everywhere you go!
From secret cafés to breathtaking viewpoints, skip the crowded tourist spots and find places that match your style. Our app makes it easy with voice search, smart filtering, route optimization, and insider tips from travelers worldwide. Download now for the complete mobile experience.
A unique approach to discovering new places❞
— Le Figaro
All the places worth exploring❞
— France Info
A tailor-made excursion in just a few clicks❞
— 20 Minutes