I'm fascinated with the Roman era in English history and would like to visit Hadrian's Wall. Can it be done in a day-trip from either London or Edinburgh?

You can do it from Edinburgh - I think too far from London to have enough time there. We did by car on the way to Edinburgh - not sure of options other than driving.

Can be done from Edinburgh - but is an easier day trip from Newcastle.

Were you planning on driving or taking the train?

Train or bus from either Carlisle or Newcastle, but the most visually stunning bits are nearer Newcastle. It would be a very long and expensive day trip from London; theoretically I suppose it could be done in high summer when there are long hours of daylight, but I haven't checked how the timetables and fares would work out.

www.nationalrail.co.uk
http://www.northumberlandnationalpar...adrianswallbus

If you're fascinated by the period it is worth more than a day trip. Forts, museums, other minor sites and the spectacular walks in the vicinity of Housesteads.

Thanks for the information. I'm going to look at making it more than just a day trip. Newcastle or Carlisle the best base for multiple days?

If you have multiple days - I'd stay somewhere along the Wall. Haltwhistle , Hexham, etc.

One night/two days would be great.

Hexham would be a great base. It's a very interesting small city on its own.

Agree that Hexham is a great choice. That's where we stayed, though it was a while back and I'm afraid I have no current recommendations for accommodations or dining.

Stayed in Haltwhistle last summer and would recommend the Ashcroft b&b. Hexham looked great too, and I'm sorry I missed the Abbey there. Both towns served by the Hadrians Wall bus.

Without your own transport Hexham is the ideal choice as it's on the AD122 bus route which runs along the Wall and it has sufficient of interest for evenings.