Day 2 of Hadrian's Wall Path marks the transition from urban Newcastle to the rural Northumberland countryside. This 15-mile stretch from Heddon-on-the-Wall to Chollerford takes you through the final suburbs, across rolling farmland, and delivers you to the banks of the North Tyne at the beautiful village of Chollerford. It's a day of steady progress with gradually improving scenery.
While you won't encounter the dramatic crags of the central section yet, Day 2 has its own rewards: the first significant stretches of the wall, the characterful Robin Hood Inn, and the sense of finally leaving civilisation behind. By evening, you'll be in genuine Hadrian's Wall country, ready for the spectacular days ahead.
Day 2 Overview: The Numbers
Here's what to expect on the second day:
- Distance: 15 miles (24 km)
- Terrain: Mixed - road sections, field paths, some mud in wet weather
- Elevation gain: Moderate - some gentle climbs onto higher ground
- Walking time: 6-7 hours depending on pace
- Difficulty: Moderate - longer than Day 1 feels due to varied terrain
- Facilities: Limited - Robin Hood Inn at halfway point is essential
The path continues to follow the line of Hadrian's Wall, though visible remains are still intermittent. You're walking through agricultural land that has been farmed continuously since Roman times, with the wall's stones long since repurposed into field walls and farm buildings.
Heddon to Harlow Hill (4 miles)
Leaving Heddon-on-the-Wall, the first section passes through the remaining fringes of Newcastle's development. The path follows lanes and field edges, with the city gradually receding behind you. This section isn't particularly exciting, but it's necessary progress.
At Harlow Hill, you'll encounter one of the more unusual features of the path: a section that follows a busy road for about a mile. This is unavoidable, as the wall's original line is under the modern road. Walk facing traffic, stay alert, and remember that this is the last road-walking section of any length on the trail.
The compensation for this road section is that you're climbing onto higher ground with increasingly good views. On a clear day, you can see the Pennines to the south and the first hint of the Northumberland hills ahead.
Harlow Hill to Robin Hood Inn (5 miles)
West of Harlow Hill, the path becomes more rural and pleasant. You're now walking through open farmland with views across the Tyne Valley. The wall's ditch (or Vallum - the earthwork that ran parallel to the wall on its south side) becomes visible in places.
Key points along this section include:
- Wall Miles 8-13: The wall was measured in Roman miles, marked by milecastles
- Vallum earthworks: The ditch and banks south of the wall become visible
- Military Road: You'll cross the B6318, built in the 1750s along the wall line
- St Oswald's Way junction: Another long-distance path crosses here
The Robin Hood Inn at East Wallhouses is the essential lunch stop on Day 2. There's nowhere else to buy food or drink for miles in either direction, so plan your timing to arrive here hungry. This traditional pub serves good food and welcomes walkers - the perfect mid-walk refreshment.
The pub's name has nothing to do with the legendary outlaw - it's thought to derive from "Robin of Redesdale," a local rebel leader. Whatever the origin, it's been welcoming travellers for centuries and is a highlight of Day 2.
Robin Hood Inn to Chollerford (6 miles)
The afternoon section is the most enjoyable part of Day 2. The path now follows a clear route through farmland with regular glimpses of the wall's line and associated earthworks. You're entering genuine Hadrian's Wall country.
At Planetrees, look for one of the best-preserved sections of the wall's broad foundation. Here you can clearly see the construction technique: large facing stones with rubble core, still standing after nearly 2,000 years despite being exposed to Northumberland weather.
The path descends to the North Tyne Valley, with views opening up ahead to the tree-lined river and the village of Chollerford. The descent is gradual but noticeable after a day of walking. Chollerford Bridge comes into view, and suddenly you're at journey's end for Day 2.
Arriving at Chollerford
Chollerford is a small village at the crossing of the North Tyne, historically important because this was where the wall crossed the river. The Roman bridge abutment is still visible near the modern bridge.
Accommodation options at Chollerford include:
- The George Hotel: The main hotel in the village, right by the bridge
- Chesters Cottage B&B: Close to Chesters Roman Fort
- Various B&Bs in the area: Several options within walking distance
Chollerford is also home to Chesters Roman Fort, one of the best-preserved cavalry forts on the wall. While you'll pass it on Day 3, some walkers choose to visit in the evening of Day 2 if they arrive with daylight remaining. The bathhouse at Chesters is exceptionally well-preserved and worth the visit.
Navigation Tips for Day 2
Day 2 navigation is generally straightforward, but there are a few points to watch:
- Road section at Harlow Hill: Follow the pavement on the right side of the road
- Field crossings: Gates and stiles are well-marked but can be muddy
- After Robin Hood Inn: The path crosses the Military Road - use the crossing point
- Descent to Chollerford: Follow waymarks carefully through the final fields
The waymarking is good throughout, with the acorn symbol of National Trails appearing regularly. Carry an OS map (OL43) or GPS app as backup, particularly for the field sections where paths can be faint.
Weather Considerations
Day 2 is exposed in places, particularly on the higher ground around Harlow Hill. Key weather preparations:
- Wind: The ridgeline can be windy - carry a windproof layer
- Rain: Field paths become muddy quickly - waterproof boots essential
- Sun: Little shade on the higher sections - sun protection needed
- Cold: Even in summer, the exposed sections can feel cool
Check the forecast before setting off from Heddon. If heavy rain is expected, consider a slightly later start to let morning showers pass, as long as you'll still reach Chollerford before dark.
What to Carry
With limited facilities on Day 2, self-sufficiency is more important than on Day 1:
- Water: At least 2 litres - only refill option is Robin Hood Inn
- Lunch and snacks: Even if you plan to eat at the pub, carry backup food
- Full waterproofs: Top and bottom layers
- Warm layer: Fleece or similar for exposed sections
- Blister kit: Day 2 is when blisters often develop
- Cash: Some rural pubs don't take cards
If you're on a guided package with baggage transfer, your main bag will be at your Chollerford accommodation. But your day pack should contain everything you need to be comfortable and safe throughout the walking day.
Enjoying Day 2: The Transition Day
Day 2 isn't the most dramatic day on Hadrian's Wall Path, but it serves an important purpose in your journey. This is when you properly leave the urban environment behind and enter the Northumberland landscape that defines the walk.
Tips for enjoying the day:
- Appreciate the transition: Notice how the landscape changes throughout the day
- Don't rush lunch: The Robin Hood Inn is a proper rest stop - enjoy it
- Look for the Vallum: The earthwork parallel to the wall is impressive when you spot it
- Photograph Planetrees: The wall section here is photogenic
- Celebrate reaching Chollerford: You've completed the urban/suburban portion of the trail
The soldiers who walked this section nearly 2,000 years ago were covering similar daily distances. They'd have known the same landmarks - the river crossings, the high ground, the views. Walking their route connects you to that history in a way that no museum visit can match.
Common Questions About Day 2
What if Robin Hood Inn is closed? Check opening hours before your walk. If it's closed, you'll need to carry all food and drink for the day. There are no other facilities between Heddon and Chollerford.
Is Day 2 harder than Day 1? The distance is similar, but Day 2 often feels longer because the terrain is more varied and there's more elevation change. The psychological factor of leaving civilisation behind also makes it feel more significant.
Can I visit Chesters Fort on Day 2? It's on your route for Day 3, but if you arrive at Chollerford early, you could visit on Day 2 evening. Check closing times and consider whether you'll have energy after 15 miles.
What's the hardest part of Day 2? The road section near Harlow Hill is tedious, and the afternoon miles can feel long. Pacing yourself and stopping at the Robin Hood Inn helps break up the day.
Looking Ahead: Day 3
Day 3 takes you from Chollerford to Steel Rigg or Once Brewed, depending on your itinerary. This is when Hadrian's Wall Path really shows its character. You'll visit Chesters Fort, climb onto higher ground, and see the first of the dramatic crags that define the central section.
The walking becomes more demanding but also more rewarding. The wall remains become more substantial and frequent. The views become more spectacular. Day 3 is when most walkers fall in love with Hadrian's Wall Path.
Rest well at Chollerford - you've earned it, and the adventure is about to intensify.
Planning Your Hadrian's Wall Walk
Day 2 is a crucial part of the Hadrian's Wall experience, but it's just one piece of an 84-mile journey. The best way to experience the full trail is with proper planning: pre-booked accommodation, baggage transfer, and detailed route information.
Explore our walking holiday itineraries to find an option that suits your pace and preferences. Whether you want to challenge yourself with a 4-day crossing or take a more relaxed 8-day approach, we can arrange everything you need.
Ready to walk Hadrian's Wall? Get in touch to start planning your adventure.
