Our work at Hadrian’s Wall: repairing the Bogle Hole footpath

Path besides the wall at Hadrian's Wall and Housesteads Fort, Northumberland — Path besides the wall at Hadrian's Wall and Housesteads Fort | © National Trust Images/John Millar

Find out how our rangers (with the help of a helicopter) repaired a stretch of eroded footpath along Hadrian’s Wall at Bogle Hole, using 35 tonnes of locally sourced stone.

Fixing the footpath

Due to considerable wear and tear over the years, a stretch of the footpath alongside the wall had badly eroded and led to a scar so deep that the wall’s original foundation stones had been exposed.

The situation had become so serious that our rangers had to call in in support from local contractor 'Making Trax' and a helicopter to help them carry out the repair job.

Over the course of one day, the helicopter lifted and transported 35 tonnes of stone to the site, which was used over the following month to install 78 metres of stone path.

The stone used is whinstone, which was locally sourced from farms in the surrounding area. Due to the historical importance of the site, an archaeologist was onsite whenever digging for the new path was carried out.

Helicopter helping with path repairs at High Peak Estate, Derbyshire — Helicopter helping with path repairs | © National Trust Images/Gill Sandford

Trench and stones

To make the new path, a trench (called a tray) was excavated along the line of the pathway. The larger stones were then arranged so that they fit together and were partially buried in the ground, ensuring stability.

Smaller stones and earth were then wedged into any gaps to help lock the larger stones into place. In time, vegetation grows around the path, helping it to blend into its surroundings.

Whenever work like this is under way to improve access for everyone, we ask visitors to look out for warning signs and temporary footpath diversions to help us get the job done as quickly and safely as possible. Thank you for helping us do so.