Why is Brampton sometimes described as The Gateway to Hadrian's Wall?

Living local to Brampton all our lifes we have been very fortunate to have the amazing, historical beauty of Hadrian's Wall all around us. Indeed, we have often enjoyed an afternoon at Lanercost Priory (2 miles from Wall & Lakes holiday cottage) and gazed at its magestic splender before enjoying tea and cake in their highly recommended tea room.  Althought, not actually part of Hadrian's Wall it is just one mile south of The Wall and, founded in 1169, many stones from Hadrian's Wall were reused in its construction.  We even gained special permission for our daughters wedding photo's to be taken in and around The Priory, how lucky we were and what treasured memories they provided.  

From Lanercost Priory you can join a footpath along Hadrian's Wall up to Birdoswald Roman Fort and museum providing a fascinating day out. 

A trip to Newcastle, taking the Military Road with its roller coaster ups and downs, views of The Wall and a quick stop, always, at Sycamore Gap (sadly, the actual tree has now been cut down) is definately a must.  From here you can visit many historical sites such as The Sill; Housteads and Vindolanda Visitor Centres. 

Brampton definately is a great base from which to explore The Wall, often using the regular connections provided by both Brampton railway station (A walk up "The Dandy" footpath from Wall and Lakes holiday cottage) or joining the AD122 (Roman Wall bus, which runs from Easter to September from Greenhead) via the frequent 685 bus service from Brampton or your own car or taxi.  These links provide easy ways to walk sections of Hadrian's Wall and then catching your train or bus back to Brampton or your strategically placed parked car.

This section of Hadrian's Wall Map, clearly shows how close Brampton is to Hadrian's Wall with Lanercost Priory a short drive or walk away from Wall and Lakes holiday cottage.