Everyone's heard of Hadrian's Wall, but that wasn't the only thing founded in his era. The 2nd century Fort at Hardknott is a great place to visit if you're into historical days out. Read on to discover the earthwork and ruins that make up this dramatically located fort.

About Hardknott Roman Fort

This small, three-acre second century fort dates from the reign of Emperor Hadrian, was abandoned early in the third century to be left as temporary shelter for passing travellers. Now the remaining ruins and earthworks can be visited and explored during daylight hours every day of the week.

Hardknott Roman Fort from the South Gate

Where can I park?

There is parking available close by the fort, just off Hardknott Pass. It's not a car park as such, and is... fun? (Ha!) to get to.

P.S. Take care on the drive up as the road isn't known as one of Britain's most challenging drives for nothing. It is extremely steep... in fact it's the steepest road in England. You need nerves of steel and a car that can cope with the climb.

To find the fort, use this post code: CA19 1TH

Is it worth the drive?

This is an easy yes! Once you make it up Hardknott Pass and park up you will be well rewarded. The views are absolutely spectacular, even on a more overcast day like when we visited.

Top reasons to visit Hardknott Roman Fort

It's free

Let's be honest, whether you live locally or travel to Cumbria for a staycation, life is expensive. A free day out will always be a winner.

The views are epic

It may be quite a journey to get there, but it is worth it for the opportunity to see the fantastic views from your destination.

The wall and view at Hardknott Roman Fort

There is lots available to explore

Four room bath house

We didn’t walk down to it as we only noticed it on our way back to the car, but there are walls in amongst the ferns where the bath house once stood.

The fort

Complete with gateways, courtyard, angle tower, commanding officer's house and more; there are plenty of spots to explore.

Is it suitable for children?

100%!

If your family car will make it up the steep base of Hardknott Pass, your children are bound to love it. Just being able to run about and enjoy the fresh air and freedom inside the main walls of the fort is enough for most children; whilst other will enjoy reading the plaques and asking about the history.

Obviously they need supervising, the walls have stood for over 900 years, but you don't want anyone to fall and hurt themselves or damage the ruins either, but I would definitely recommend it as a great place to visit for all the family.

Are there any facilities close by?

The fort itself stands alone to the side of Hardknott Pass, and you will not find any food or toilet facilities alongside. We took a picnic with us, and what a view to sit and eat your lunch. At the bottom of the pass where the fort is, there are some portable loos, however if you can hold it and travel a little further into Eskdale there are some much nicer toilets to be found! You can also find food in Eskdale thanks to the pubs, restaurants and tea rooms in the area.

Bonus

Roman Baths and more

If you enjoy historical destinations to explore, why not head to nearby Ravenglass to the ruins of the old Roman bath house there, or travel down to Ambleside Roman Fort and explore that too?

So, there you go. Even if you go just for the views, I highly recommend Hardknott Roman Fort as a spot to visit if you’re ever in the Lake District. If you fancy a challenge, why not park at the bottom and hike up Hardknott Pass to the fort instead? Good luck, stay safe and have fun!

For more blog posts about exploring the beautiful places we have on our Cumbrian doorstep check out my Lake District category here. Have you found somewhere amazing to visit in the Lake District? We love to explore new spots, so feel free to share in the comments below.