Hardknott Roman Fort CA19 1TH
Entry: Free for everyone
Open: seasonal - check website
Dogs: on leads
Reviews: 0

History:
Dramatically sited on a spur above the Hardknott Pass, Hardknott Fort presides over the Esk Valley, offering spectacular views of Scafell Pike and as far as the Isle of Man. It was built early in the reign of Emperor Hadrian (117–38), and helped the Roman army control the region, guarding an important road that connected the Cumbrian coast with the heart of the Lake District.

For centuries, its beautiful location and well-preserved remains have inspired wonder at the history of Roman Britain. Yet pottery discovered at the fort shows that it was in use for barely 20 years, and was probably abandoned by the end of Hadrian’s reign.

One of the most remote and dramatically sited Roman forts in Britain, the small fort at Hardknott enjoyed command of the Eskdale Valley and the Roman road to Ravenglass.

The fort at Hardknott was established early in the 2nd 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 AD, when the Romans reoccupied southern Scotland, but was regarrisoned under Marcus Aurelius in the 160s. It was finally abandoned very early in the 3rd century.

Objects found around the fort suggest that thereafter its ruins offered temporary shelter to passing patrols and travellers.

Parking:
There is space for parking available near the fort, just off the Hardknott Pass. Take care - the road is very steep

Facilities:
None on site 

Notes:
Grassy area changeable weather conditions so come prepared with suitable clothing as the site is remote and very exposed.

Contact:
Website: www.english-heritage.org.uk
Tel: 0370 3331181