Milecastle 4

Milecastle 4 is a Roman fortification in Newcastle upon Tyne that measured approximately 15 meters wide and 18 meters long. The south wall was about 2.7 meters thick and was reinforced with clay to strengthen its structure.

The fortification was investigated during archaeological excavations in the 1920s, which uncovered Roman pottery and other artifacts at this location along the wall line. These investigations confirmed that this point represented an important checkpoint in the Roman frontier defense system.

This structure was part of the Roman defensive system along Hadrian's Wall, demonstrating how the Romans organized and controlled their frontier. The soldiers stationed here played an important role in monitoring the empire's northern boundary.

The remains of this fortification lie beneath the Newcastle Arts Centre on Westgate Road and are therefore not visible from the surface. Visitors interested in Roman archaeology can learn more about the location through exhibitions or events hosted at the center.

The remains do not lie precisely at the expected position between two adjacent turrets, suggesting that the original Roman numbering in this section may have needed revision. Such deviations help archaeologists understand how the Romans actually adapted their frontier fortifications.

Location: Tyne and Wear

Location: Newcastle upon Tyne

Part of: Hadrian's Wall

GPS coordinates: 54.96995,-1.61781

Latest update: December 14, 2025 13:03