Americans choose Hadrian’s Wall

Hadrian’s Wall has been cited as England’s top ancient monument – ahead of Stonehenge - by the travel section of one of America’s most revered and well read national newspapers.

Writing a feature for USA Today, which is distributed in all 50 American states, journalist Josh Roberts, called the famous Roman monument “Better than Stonehenge”, described how he found the area and his accommodation “particularly welcoming” and explained that he had met people from all over the UK and Europe who had all come to walk the famous Hadrian’s Wall Path National Trail.

The seal of approval from USA Today is very timely as it comes as Hadrian’s Wall is bidding to become Britain’s best loved attraction in the Alan Tichmash presented, ‘Britain’s Best’ series on UKTV. Hadrian’s Wall is currently steaming ahead and leading the online campaign with 10,013 votes and counting.

Linda Tuttiett, Chief Executive of Hadrian’s Wall Heritage said: “We know that Hadrian’s Wall always holds such appeal and is often on the UK itinerary for many international tourists. It’s absolutely fantastic to have this seal of approval from such a high profile and well read publication. The USA Today feature is very complimentary indeed and hopefully it will boost our cause further to be officially recognised as Britain’s Best in the UKTV campaign.”

Josh Roberts visited Hadrian’s Wall Country to walk the Hadrian’s Wall Path National Trail. He stayed at Once Brewed in Northumberland National Park which he described as having “the most spectacular sections of Hadrian’s Wall”.

On his journey he met and spoke to many local characters, who were able to give him advice and guidance on the many facilities, attractions and services on offer to Wall visitors. Josh also found that, despite the strong pound, American visitors don’t have to spend a fortune during their stay and his article cites accommodation on Hadrian’s Wall for as little as £14 a night.

Here are just some of his comments taken from his article:

“Today the legendary wall lies in ruins, but the mythical landscape it guarded retains a sacred, almost timeless connection to the past. Forts and temples, mileposts and ancient roads—these relics of the past are still scattered throughout this remote region of England, while along the ruined wall stray sheep now graze the hills where Roman legionnaires once walked…. it takes only a small leap of imagination to transport yourself back in time to an era when Rome still ruled the world.”

Britain’s Best is a five part series on UKTV History. Shows will run throughout the summer, culminating in a final 90-minute final in which Alan Titchmarsh will reveal Britain's best historic sites - as voted for by the British public. In order to keep Hadrian’s Wall at the top of the list, you can cast your vote for Hadrian’s Wall online at: Uktv.co.uk.