Hadrian’s Wall, Roman Britain & the Scottish Borders

Today you’re embarking on the journey through the ancient past and you start by heading on old Roman Dere Street that ran from the south of Scotland through what is now Northumberland.

As you venture into the picturesque region of the Scottish Borders, you’ll be surrounded by rolling hills adorned with ancient abbeys and charming villages. While the area may seem serene today, it has a rich history marked by conflicts and border skirmishes over the centuries.

Your first stop is the border town of Jedburgh, a historic burgh dominated by the magnificent 12th-century Augustinian Abbey. You’ll have the opportunity to take a short walk through the peaceful narrow streets to admire the soaring ruins of the abbey.

Continuing south, we’ll stop at the scenic Carter Bar, located on the edge of the Cheviot Hills. This crossing point between Scotland and England follows the ancient Roman road and has marked the border between the two countries for the past 700 years.

As you enter Northumberland, a county renowned for its historic towns, lush countryside, and ancient castles, you’ll bid farewell to Scotland.

The tour continues toward Hadrian’s Wall, stopping at Steel Rigg. You’ll have time to walk beside the wall and feel the isolation that Roman soldiers experienced while guarding against the ‘barbarians’ to the north. As you journey along the wall, your guide will recommend the best sites to visit.

Next is an optional activity: exploring the archaeological site of Vindolanda, where you can step into the lives of those at this Roman fort. Years of excavation have uncovered incredible artifacts, from shoes and jewelry to bones and pottery. With history in mind, you’ll head north to Scotland, traveling through Dumfries and Galloway to Moffat.

The tour continues through the magnificent forests of Northumberland National Park before turning west towards Hadrian’s Wall.

You’ll have a short break in the Victorian spa town of Moffat, which attracted visitors in the 18th and 19th centuries seeking the health benefits of its mineral springs. The town is also famous for Moffat toffee, known for its unique buttery flavor and chewy texture.

From Moffat, you’ll travel north, past the Pentland Hills Regional Park on your way back to Edinburgh