Poltross Burn Milecastle - Hadrian's Wall

Poltross Burn Milecastle, also known locally as the King's Stables, is one of the clearest surviving small forts along Hadrian's Wall. Built in the second century, it controlled a gateway through the frontier and remained in use into the fourth century. Its unusually generous plan includes two barrack buildings flanking a central roadway, together with an oven, part of the north gateway and stairs that once reached the rampart walk. These details make everyday garrison life easier to imagine than at sites with only a wall line remaining. Visitors appreciate the quiet setting and the short, well-signposted approach from Gilsland. Limited free parking near the Samson Inn is a five-to-ten-minute walk away; the route includes a footbridge and steps and is unsuitable for wheelchairs. English Heritage includes the milecastle in its Birdoswald Roman Trail, which also describes walking beside the nearby wall towards Willowford.