Hadrian's Wall Path Loop from Greenhead
Hadrian's Wall Path Loop from Greenhead
4.7
(48)
318
hikers
Hadrian's Wall Path Loop from Greenhead
06:45
24.5km
420m
Hiking
Hike 15.2 miles (24.5 km) along Hadrian's Wall from Greenhead, experiencing dramatic crags, historical sites, and panoramic views.
Last updated: February 26, 2026
Tips
Your route passes through protected areas
Please check local regulations for:
Waypoints
Start point
Parking
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487 m
Thirlwall Castle Ruins
Highlight • Historical Site
Tip by
2.46 km
Walltown Crags and Hadrian's Wall
Highlight • Viewpoint
Tip by
2.57 km
Turret 45A (Walltown Crags) on Hadrian’s Wall
Highlight • Viewpoint
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5.79 km
Aesica Roman Fort
Highlight • Monument
Tip by
6.79 km
Cawfields Quarry: Lake and Visitor Facilities
Highlight • Rest Area
Translated by Google •
Tip by
7.17 km
Cawfields Milecastle 42, Hadrian's Wall
Highlight • Historical Site
Tip by
8.35 km
Caw Gap and Turret 41A on Hadrian's Wall
Highlight • Natural Monument
Tip by
10.1 km
Winshield Crags trig point
Highlight • Summit
Tip by
11.3 km
Steel Rigg and Hadrian's Wall
Highlight • Historical Site
Tip by
24.5 km
End point
Parking
Way Types & Surfaces
Way Types
13.7 km
7.15 km
2.61 km
792 m
278 m
Surfaces
13.5 km
5.46 km
2.62 km
1.58 km
1.11 km
237 m
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Elevation
Highest point (330 m)
Lowest point (130 m)
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Weather
Powered by Foreca
Thursday 7 May
13°C
6°C
60 %
Additional weather tips
Max wind speed: 19.0 km/h
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This route was planned by komoot.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difficulty and terrain like for the Steel Rigg from Greenhead hike?
This Komoot tour is rated as difficult, covering approximately 24.5 km (15.2 miles) with over 400 meters (1,300 feet) of elevation gain. The terrain includes a mix of footpaths and tracks, with undulating paths, and some sections can be rocky and muddy, especially after rain. Sturdy footwear and waterproofs are highly recommended for this longer route.
Where can I park to access the trail?
Convenient access points with parking are available at Steel Rigg Car Park or The Sill: National Landscape Discovery Centre. Please note that parking charges apply at these locations.
Is the Steel Rigg from Greenhead trail dog-friendly?
Yes, dogs are generally allowed on the trail. However, as much of the route passes through Northumberland National Park and near farmland, it's essential to keep dogs on a lead, especially around livestock and to protect ground-nesting birds. Always follow the Countryside Code.
Do I need a permit or pay an entrance fee to hike this route?
No, there are no specific permits or entrance fees required to hike the Steel Rigg from Greenhead trail itself. However, parking charges apply at the main car parks like Steel Rigg Car Park or The Sill: National Landscape Discovery Centre.
What are the best times of year to hike this trail?
The trail can be enjoyed year-round, but spring, summer, and early autumn offer the most pleasant conditions with longer daylight hours and generally drier paths. Winter hikes are possible but require appropriate gear for potentially icy, muddy, or snowy conditions, and shorter daylight. Always check the weather forecast before you go.
What historical and natural landmarks can I see along the route?
This route offers a wealth of historical and natural sights. You'll follow sections of Hadrian's Wall and pass by significant Roman sites such as Thirlwall Castle Ruins, Turret 45A (Walltown Crags) on Hadrian’s Wall, Aesica Roman Fort, and Cawfields Milecastle 42, Hadrian's Wall. Natural highlights include the dramatic Walltown Crags and Hadrian's Wall, Caw Gap and Turret 41A on Hadrian's Wall, and the stunning views from Winshield Crags trig point and Steel Rigg and Hadrian's Wall. You'll also see Crag Lough, a beautiful glacial lake.
Does this trail intersect with other well-known paths?
Yes, this route extensively follows sections of the Hadrian's Wall Path and the Pennine Way (Middleton in Teesdale to Kirk Yetholm). It also briefly intersects with the Pennine Cycleway, Hadrian's Cycleway, and the Great North Trail (North Pennines and Kielder Forest).
Are there any facilities like restrooms or cafes along the way?
While the trail itself is largely remote, you'll find visitor facilities at Cawfields Quarry, which includes a lake. The Sill: National Landscape Discovery Centre, a common starting point, also offers facilities, including a cafe and restrooms. It's always wise to carry enough water and snacks for the duration of your hike.
Is this a good trail for families?
While the Komoot tour is rated as difficult due to its length and elevation, shorter, more moderate circular walks around the Steel Rigg area (typically 4 miles / 6.5 km, taking 2-2.5 hours) are often considered suitable for families with a reasonable level of fitness. This specific 24.5 km route is better suited for experienced hikers.
What should I wear and bring for this hike?
Given the trail's length and varied terrain, it's crucial to wear sturdy, waterproof hiking boots and dress in layers suitable for changing weather conditions. Waterproof outer layers are highly recommended. Bring plenty of water, snacks, a map or GPS device (like the Komoot app), a first-aid kit, and sun protection. Trekking poles can also be beneficial for stability on uneven sections.
What is the most iconic viewpoint on the Steel Rigg from Greenhead trail?
The area around Steel Rigg itself, particularly where Hadrian's Wall snakes along the Whin Sill, offers some of the most iconic and photographed views. The vistas overlooking Crag Lough are also breathtaking, showcasing the dramatic landscape of the national park.
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Trail Reviews
At some point the rain has to catch us. And it wasn't just rain.... it was lighter, drizzle, hardly any rain up to the really heavy shower....everything was there and all the time. Made this section the most difficult yet. This makes the descents very smooth. But done...💪
Today was another one of our shorter stages on the agenda. So, we started the day relaxed with a hearty outdoor breakfast before setting off. It briefly looked as if it was about to start raining, but ultimately, we were lucky with the weather all day long; the sun even came out occasionally. On our host's recommendation, we first stopped by the Roman Army Museum to get in the mood for the day, as it would be dominated by Hadrian's Wall – it doesn't hurt to get some background information beforehand, although museums aren't really my thing, especially not museums about the history of human civilization. So we bought the double ticket right away so that we could also visit Vindolanda Fort later at our destination – but that didn't happen because we were dawdling around too much. We left the museum, past the visitor center, and set off straight away, and suddenly we were standing at Hadrian's Wall. The Romans are crazy! They simply built a massive wall stretching 118 km from coast to coast, up to 3 m thick, up to 6 m high, with a guard fortress (milecastle) every 1.48 km (Roman mile). And all of this within 6 years (faster than the Elbphilharmonie, after all). And only to keep the "barbarians" from the north from invading "their realm." It's a bit reminiscent of "The Wall" from Game of Thrones, which was supposed to keep out the wildlings. We spent the whole day walking a route that's part of both the Pennine Way and Hadrian's Wall Path. Of course, this area also attracts a lot of visitors off the trails – so it got a bit crowded at times (for me). The entire path along the wall is steep and steep. Every time you think this must be the last dip, the next one comes into view. But you're rewarded with magnificent views, especially at Winshield Trig Point (see panoramic photo). Today we spent our lunch break on a large picnic meadow with a few wooden benches. As it turned out, we should have dragged ourselves another 100 meters and then we could have rested with a more beautiful view. At a picturesque lake that's part of a former quarry. Oh well, sandwiches are all that matters. After many more ups and downs on Hadrian's Wall, we arrived at our accommodation for today, the "Twice Brewed Inn" in Once Brewed. No joke. 🙂 Twice Brewed is also a brewery, so we were able to try out the latest beers. A lovely end to the day.
A classic section of Hadrian's Wall on a perfect day with my sister-in-law Kate
A strenuous walk that was rewarded by lovely views and interesting Hadrian's Wall remains on a perfect day for walking. Coffee breaks at Walltown Visitor Centre (coffee, books, and t-shirt) and Cawfield Quarry. Finished at Twice Brewed pub with food and drinks. Perfect day.
This started quite dull and wet as we climbed back onto the wall. Again the wall was quite undulating. Lots to see and people to meet. We stayed the night in a self catering apartment above the garage of Hollies on the Wall which was amazing and they provided one of the best breakfasts that we've ever had.
Deliberately short stage, but more tiring than expected, to arrive early at the YHA hostel at Sill a Once Brewed and leave me all afternoon to visit the fort, the vicus and the museum of Vindolanda. Left Gilsland with the first kilometers into Northhumberland. Just before Thirlwall Castle we cross and share the route with the Peninne Way, another beautiful path that goes from south to north through the Pennine Mountains (it reminds me of something). We will leave this path tomorrow just before Vercovicium Fort (Housesteads) Encountered the remains of the wall and the Magnis (Carvoran) fort. Walton and Cawfield's features are beautiful, but everything is beautiful in reality. Mr. Meteo was also good. The hostel starts reception at 5 so I decided to immediately make the 4 km return trip to Vindolanda. Tonight Sunday roast at the brewery.
Today the path followed Hadrian's Wall. It was a constant up and down. However, I was rewarded with a beautiful view.