Maiden Way, Roman road in Cumbria and Northumberland, England.
Maiden Way is a Roman road extending approximately 20 miles between Kirkby Thore and Carvoran, crossing the Pennines through steep terrain. The route linked multiple Roman military installations and demonstrates the engineering skill required to traverse difficult upland country.
This road was built during Roman occupation to connect the forts of Bravoniacum and Magnis, facilitating the movement of troops and supplies. An intermediate fort at Epiacum provided support along this demanding route.
The name Maiden Way first appeared in records from the 12th century as Maydengathe, possibly connected to Maiden Castle on the Stainmore route. Today it remains a recognizable path through the landscape that walkers experience while exploring the Pennine region.
Visitors can best explore sections of this ancient route on foot, with the Pennine Way incorporating several segments of the original path. Good footwear is advisable, as the terrain is steep and weather conditions in the upland region can change quickly.
Recent LIDAR investigations revealed that the road actually extends further south than previously documented, reaching to Low Borrowbridge near Tebay. This discovery has significantly expanded our understanding of the original extent of this ancient military route.
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