Stanegate

Stanegate is a minor road in Northumberland, England, that runs roughly east to west, parallel to Hadrian's Wall for much of its length. It originated as a Roman road, built to serve the military complex at Vindolanda, located south of the wall. The name Stanegate is believed to derive from the Old English for "stone road."

The road was an important artery for Roman legions and supply lines operating in the northern frontier of the Roman Empire. Its proximity to Hadrian's Wall meant it was used for troop movements and communication between forts and milecastles. Archaeological evidence suggests its construction predates the wall itself in some sections, indicating its strategic importance even before the wall's completion.

Today, Stanegate is a public highway, though largely unfenced and often following a more rural route than its ancient predecessor. It provides access to several important Roman sites, including Vindolanda, Housesteads Roman Fort, and Chesters Roman Fort. The road offers scenic views across the Northumberland countryside and is popular with walkers and cyclists, many of whom follow sections of the route as part of longer itineraries exploring the Hadrian's Wall World Heritage Site. Its historical significance continues to draw interest from archaeologists and history enthusiasts.