Epiacum Roman Fort: Britain's Highest Stone-Built Roman Stronghold
Explore Epiacum Roman Fort, Britain’s highest stone-built Roman stronghold with unique lozenge design and rich archaeological heritage near Alston.
Epiacum Roman Fort, also known as Whitley Castle, is a unique early 2nd-century AD Roman fort near Alston, Cumbria. Distinguished by its rare lozenge shape and commanding hilltop position, it once housed around 600 soldiers guarding northern frontier routes and local lead mining. Visitors can explore extensive earthworks, archaeological remains, and enjoy panoramic views of the North Pennines, immersing themselves in a key site of Roman Britain’s military and industrial history.
A brief summary to Epiacum Roman Fort
- Alston, CA9 3BG, GB
- +441434382080
- Visit website
- Duration: 1 to 3 hours
- Budget
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 3 out of 5
Local tips
- Wear sturdy footwear for walking the uneven earthworks and trails around the fort.
- Bring binoculars or a camera to capture panoramic views of the North Pennines.
- Check for guided tours or archaeological events offered by Epiacum Heritage to enhance your visit.
- Prepare for variable upland weather; layers and waterproofs are recommended.
- Combine your visit with a walk along nearby trails like the Pennine Way or Isaac’s Tea Trail.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Seating Areas
- Information Boards
Getting There
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Bus and Walk
Take the local bus service from Alston town center to the nearest stop about 3 km from Epiacum. From there, enjoy a 40-50 minute moderate walk along marked trails through scenic upland terrain to reach the fort. Bus fares range from £3 to £6 one way.
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Car
Drive from Alston to the Epiacum car park via local country roads, approximately a 10-minute journey. Parking is limited and free but can fill on busy days. The final approach involves a short walk over uneven ground.
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Heritage Railway and Walk
During the tourist season, take the South Tynedale Railway heritage train from Alston to Kirkhaugh station, then walk approximately 2 km uphill to Epiacum. The train ride is about 30 minutes, tickets cost around £10-£15, and the walk is moderately challenging.
Epiacum Roman Fort location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Rain / Wet Weather
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Clear Skies
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Windy Conditions
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Cold Weather
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Mild Temperatures
Discover more about Epiacum Roman Fort
A Distinctive Roman Military Outpost in Northern England
Epiacum Roman Fort, known historically as Whitley Castle, stands as the highest stone-built Roman fort in Britain. Constructed in the early 2nd century AD by the Roman army, it was strategically positioned near Alston, Cumbria, to protect the northern frontier and oversee the valuable lead mining operations in the region. Unlike the typical rectangular Roman forts, Epiacum’s layout is uniquely lozenge-shaped—a parallelogram adapted to the terrain—making it an architectural anomaly among Roman military sites in Britain.Archaeological Insights into Roman Life and Military Engineering
The fort was home to a garrison of approximately 600 soldiers, including infantry and cavalry units. Excavations have uncovered the remains of barracks, granaries, a headquarters building (principia), and a commandant’s house within the fort’s walls. Outside, a bathhouse and temples dedicated to Emperor Caracalla, Hercules, and the god Mithras reveal the spiritual and daily life of its occupants. The complex defensive earthworks—walls, ditches, and ramparts—are remarkably well-preserved, showcasing advanced Roman military engineering adapted to a challenging upland environment.Historical Significance and Evolution Through Time
Epiacum was built early in the 2nd century AD, partly demolished and rebuilt around AD 200, coinciding with northern tribal uprisings. It underwent further modifications around AD 300 before being abandoned around AD 367 as Roman control waned. The fort’s name, Epiacum, likely derives from a local Brigantes tribe leader, reflecting the blending of Roman and native cultures. Its location along the Maiden Way Roman road connected it to other frontier sites, underscoring its role in regional defense and administration.Exploring the Site and Its Surroundings Today
Visitors can walk the extensive earthworks and imagine the bustling activity of Roman soldiers and civilians. The site’s elevated position offers sweeping panoramic views of the surrounding North Pennines countryside, enhancing the sense of historical immersion. Nearby trails such as the Pennine Way and Isaac’s Tea Trail provide scenic approaches, while occasional archaeological events invite hands-on participation. The solitude and rugged beauty of the landscape evoke reflections on the fort’s enduring legacy.Educational and Interactive Opportunities
Epiacum Heritage, the organization dedicated to preserving the site, offers guided tours, educational programs, and archaeological digs designed to engage visitors of all ages. These experiences deepen understanding of Roman military strategy, daily life, and the broader historical context of Roman Britain. The site serves as both a cultural heritage landmark and a living classroom for archaeology and history enthusiasts.Legacy and Continuing Research
Ongoing archaeological investigations at Epiacum continue to reveal new insights into Roman frontier life and military logistics. The fort’s unique structure and rich artifact finds contribute significantly to the study of Roman Britain and the Brigantes territory. As a protected site, Epiacum stands as a testament to the Roman Empire’s reach and the complex history of northern England’s ancient landscapes.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
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Roman Army Museum
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The New Crown Inn
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Fini’s. The Restaurant at Willowbeck Lodge
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FYR Grill at North Lakes Hotel
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The Hired Lad Restaurant
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Danielle's Bistro
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The Clickham Inn
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David's Restaurant
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Restaurant Hjem
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Skitby
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
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For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Tranquil
- Scenic
- Unique
- Relaxing
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Rustic Designs
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Panoramas
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Protected Area
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Locally Managed
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
- Nature Escape
- Day Trip
- Weekend Getaway
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly
