Birdoswald (Roman name Banna) lies just to the east of Lanercost. It is one of the best preserved forts along the Wall and the only one where the stone wall is separate to the turf wall which preceded it. There is a substantial museum with audio visual displays. The wall immediately to the east descends to the River Irthing where a bridge crossed at Willowford.
Cottages Close to Birdoswald
You won't find a Hadrian's Wall cottage much better than "Haytongate" in terms of proximity to the Wall - it is actually alongside the Hadrian's Wall path.
There are also six luxury cottages around a courtyard beside Lanercost Priory (see photo below which also shows
the wooded hills in the background leading up towards Birdoswald)
There is a geological fault which runs through Lanercost. To the west is the red sandstone of the Carlisle and Solway plain. To the east is the mountain limestone and the Whin Sill which together creates the wonderfully evocative scenery as the Wall runs along the cliffs and the skyline.
During the middle ages and in particular after the start of the wars of Scottish succession this whole region was decimated by the troubles of the Border Reiver times. Today the Bastle houses are a reminder of darker days.
William Wallace, (remember Braveheart?) also visited the Priory. However his intentions were not peaceful!
Picture left: Birdoswald Farm on Hadrian's Wall
Cottages In Lanercost Near Hadrian's Wall
The museum and site at Birdoswald is administered by English Heritage which means that you need to look at Wikipedia or Visit Cumbria for good background details.
There are good walks both along the valley of the River Irthing as well as along the main path beside Hadrian's Wall.
The small cemetery beside the Priory includes the grave of Sir Thomas Addison, renowned medical physician from Guys hospital who practiced during the19th century.
Picture left: Lanercost Priory Near Hadrian's Wall.The wooded hills behind the Priory are where the Roman Wall runs past Birdoswald fort.
