Milecastle 18

Milecastle 18 is a small Roman military fort in Northumberland that was part of a chain of fortifications along the northern frontier. The site preserves the foundation platform of the original structure, which you can walk around and examine for evidence of its layout and construction.

The fort was built in the early 2nd century during the reign of Emperor Hadrian as part of a frontier defense system. It served its purpose for centuries before being abandoned when Roman forces withdrew from Britain.

The site shows how Roman soldiers built small defensive posts at the edge of their empire's northern territory. Visitors can see how these structures fit into the landscape and understand the practical role they played in daily military operations.

The site sits in open countryside and is accessible via quiet country roads and footpaths in the area. Information panels on location help explain what you are seeing among the surviving remains.

Among the many similar forts along this frontier line, this one had a distinctive design that set it apart from the others. This architectural difference reveals it was built by a different Roman legion than most of its neighboring forts.

Location: Northumberland

Part of: Hadrian's Wall

GPS coordinates: 55.00978,-1.92632

Latest update: December 14, 2025 14:25