Hardknott Roman Fort

A horrible drive up to the fort but well worth it!

About the fort:

The fort at Hardknott was established early in the second century AD: a fragmentary inscription, dating from the reign of the Emperor Hadrian (117–38), from the south gate records the garrison as the Fourth Cohort of Dalmatians, from the Balkans. The fort was demilitarised in the late 130s, when the Romans reoccupied southern Scotland, but was regarrisoned under Marcus Aurelius in the 160s; it was finally abandoned very early in the third century. Objects found around the fort suggest that thereafter its ruins offered temporary shelter to passing patrols and travellers.

About the fort:

Barracks normally occupied the remainder of the fort; at Hardknott, however, no traces of these remain, although the front of the fort possibly contained barracks of stone and timber. At the rear, building would have been extremely difficult owing to the uneven ground, and the soldiers may have been housed in leather tents, remnants of which have been recovered in excavations. The parade-ground, where the garrison exercised and practised drill manoeuvres, lies on a plateau about 218 yards (200 metres) to the east.

Visit Hardknott Roman Fort

Activities

Broughton in Furness travel guide

Popular places to visit

Eskdale walks from Eskdale campsite. A great place to pitch your tent. We took a 3km walk from the campsite, 1 1/2 hr moderate difficulty with a 20 Minute uphill ascent, through mine ruins and taking in a beautiful Tarn at the top.

Eskdale Mill

You can spend an afternoon browsing the exhibits at Eskdale Mill in Boot. Visit the spas and top-notch restaurants in this quaint area.

Scafell Pike

Commune with nature and explore the great outdoors at Scafell Pike during your travels in Eskdale. Stroll along the lakeside or visit the spas in this quaint area.

Wast Water

Explore the great outdoors at Wast Water, a lovely green space in Wasdale. Visit the spas and lively bars in this walkable area.

Heading down to the valley and the difficult choice between the Old Dungeon Ghyll or New Dungeon Ghyll pubs. My money's on the Old Dungeon Ghyll for a traditional Lakeland pub!

Harrison Stickle

Explore the great outdoors at Harrison Stickle, a lovely green space in Lakes. Visit the spas and top-notch restaurants in this walkable area.

Coniston Water

Catch views of the Old Man of Coniston, as you cycle around this scenic lake and encounter charming historical villages.

Honister Slate Mine

You can spend an afternoon studying the exhibits at Honister Slate Mine in Borrowdale. Wander the lakeside or discover the mountain views in this relaxing area.

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