Milecastle 8

Milecastle 8 is a Roman fortification positioned along Hadrian's Wall and part of a series of small garrison posts built at intervals along the frontier line. The ruins show stone walls and reveal how these military stations were built and arranged to control movement along the border.

This fortification was built in the 2nd century AD as part of the Roman strategy to secure the northern frontier of Britain. It remained in use over time and was later repurposed during other historical periods.

This post was a crucial checkpoint where soldiers watched over the frontier and controlled who moved across the border. The objects left behind by these guards show how they lived and worked at the edge of the Roman world.

The site sits directly on the Hadrian's Wall walking path and is accessible to visitors interested in exploring the area on foot. It is wise to wear appropriate footwear and bring protection from the weather, as the landscape is open and exposed.

Evidence of an 18th-century milking house was found on the grounds, showing how local people later reused the old Roman foundations for their own purposes. This reveals that structures from antiquity often served new functions long after Roman times ended.

Location: Tyne and Wear

Part of: Hadrian's Wall

GPS coordinates: 54.98647,-1.70064

Latest update: December 14, 2025 18:14