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Hadrian's Wall Milecastle Plaque on Westgate Road, Newcastle upon Tyne

Discover the Roman frontier’s footprint in Newcastle at the Hadrian's Wall Milecastle Plaque on historic Westgate Road.

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The Hadrian's Wall Milecastle Plaque on Westgate Road marks the historic location of Milecastle 4, part of the Roman frontier fortifications of Hadrian's Wall. Situated near the Newcastle Arts Centre, this plaque commemorates the remnants of a Roman milecastle discovered beneath the city’s urban landscape, offering a tangible connection to Newcastle’s ancient Roman past.

A brief summary to A Hadrian's Wall Milecastle Plaque

  • Music, 71 Westgate Rd, Newcastle upon Tyne, NE1 1SG, GB
  • Duration: 0.25 to 1 hours
  • Free
  • Environment icon Outdoor
  • Mobile reception: 5 out of 5

Local tips

  • Visit during daylight hours to fully appreciate the plaque and surrounding urban context.
  • Combine your visit with a tour of the nearby Newcastle Arts Centre for a cultural day out.
  • Bring a guidebook or app on Hadrian’s Wall to deepen your understanding of the site’s historical significance.
  • Wear comfortable shoes as the area is best explored on foot, allowing you to soak in the city’s layered history.
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Getting There

  • Metro

    Take the Tyne and Wear Metro to Central Station, then walk approximately 10 minutes along Westgate Road to reach the plaque. The metro runs frequently with tickets costing around £2-£4.

  • Bus

    Several bus routes serve Westgate Road, including numbers 1, 12, and 38 from Newcastle Bus Station. Journey times vary from 15 to 25 minutes with single fares around £2-£3. Frequent service throughout the day.

  • Taxi

    A taxi from Newcastle city center to Westgate Road takes about 5-10 minutes, costing approximately £5-£8 depending on traffic. Taxis are readily available but consider peak times for potential delays.

A Hadrian's Wall Milecastle Plaque location weather suitability

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  • Weather icon Mild Temperatures

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Discover more about A Hadrian's Wall Milecastle Plaque

Legacy of Roman Military Engineering in Newcastle

Hadrian's Wall was an extensive defensive fortification built by the Romans across northern England during the 2nd century AD, designed to protect the Roman province from northern tribes. Milecastles were small fortlets spaced approximately every Roman mile along the wall, serving as fortified gateways and garrison posts. Milecastle 4, whose location is commemorated by the plaque on Westgate Road, was one such structure, integral to the wall’s defensive network.

Discovery Beneath the Modern City

In 1985, archaeological excavations revealed stone foundations interpreted as Milecastle 4 beneath the yards behind 67-75 Westgate Road. These remains lie beneath what is now the Newcastle Arts Centre, linking the city’s contemporary cultural life to its ancient heritage. The plaque nearby provides historical context and marks this important archaeological site for passersby.

Significance of the Milecastle Plaque

The plaque serves as a visible reminder of Newcastle’s Roman roots amid its bustling urban environment. It details the history of the milecastle and its role within Hadrian’s Wall, connecting visitors to the story of Roman Britain. Positioned on a wall along Westgate Road, the plaque invites reflection on the layers of history beneath the city streets.

Urban Context and Surroundings

Located on Westgate Road, a central thoroughfare in Newcastle upon Tyne, the plaque is surrounded by a mix of historic and modern buildings. Nearby cultural venues, shops, and eateries make this a lively area where history and contemporary city life intersect. The proximity to the Newcastle Arts Centre enhances the site’s cultural resonance.

Experiencing the Roman Frontier Today

While the milecastle itself is not visible above ground, the plaque offers an accessible point for those interested in Roman history. It encourages exploration of the city’s Roman past and the broader story of Hadrian’s Wall, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Visitors can imagine the Roman soldiers who once guarded this frontier nearly two millennia ago.

Preserving Newcastle’s Ancient Heritage

The plaque and the archaeological remains beneath highlight ongoing efforts to preserve and interpret Newcastle’s Roman history within an urban setting. They underscore the importance of integrating heritage into the modern cityscape, allowing residents and visitors alike to engage with the deep historical roots of the area.

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