Milecastle 51

Milecastle 51 is a small Roman military fortification on Hadrian's Wall and features stonework standing approximately 1.75 meters high within a rectangular layout. The remains today provide clear evidence of the fortification technique that was distributed along the northern frontier line.

The site was built around 122 CE as part of Emperor Hadrian's defensive system stretching across northern Britain. It was one of many similar structures the empire constructed along its borders during this period.

The structure shows Roman military engineering with a gateway design that controlled movement along the empire's northern frontier. Visitors can still see how this practical solution monitored trade and troop movements.

The site is accessible via the Hadrian's Wall Path, with several walking routes connecting to nearby archaeological remains. Visitors should wear sturdy footwear and be prepared for changing weather typical of the region.

Several sections of the original stonework remain visible and show directly how Roman builders constructed frontier fortifications. These visible traces help visitors understand the construction techniques used nearly 2000 years ago.

Part of: Hadrian's Wall

GPS coordinates: 54.98238,-2.63741

Latest update: December 14, 2025 18:00