English Heritage has assumed management of the visitor centre at Housesteads Roman Fort on Hadrian's Wall, taking over from the National Trust as of July 1, 2026. The transfer aims to streamline the visitor experience and enhance the preservation of this World Heritage Site.
Background of the Transfer
The National Trust had previously operated the visitor centre, activity centre, farmhouse, and associated services. Under a lease agreement, these responsibilities have now been transferred to English Heritage, which already manages nearby sites such as Corbridge Roman Town and Chesters Roman Fort.
Andrew Poad, general manager for Northumberland Coast and Hadrian's Wall Country for the National Trust, stated: "English Heritage and the National Trust have worked in collaboration for many years to preserve, protect and provide public access to the UK's rich history and natural beauty on Hadrian's Wall. On July 1, 2026, we transferred the operation and care of Housesteads Visitor Centre and activity centre, the farmhouse, and associated services, to English Heritage under a lease agreement. This transfer to English Heritage will simplify the visitor experience at Housesteads, making it clearer and easier to navigate and improve the ongoing care of this part of the World Heritage Site."
Funding and Future Plans
English Heritage has received a development grant of £286,623 from the National Lottery Heritage Fund. The charity noted that despite Housesteads' impressive structure and history, "much improvement is necessary." The grant will support planning for further phases of the Shared Horizons Project, a collaboration with Northumberland County Council and the National Trust.
Planned improvements include upgrading the museum building, revitalizing and broadening site interpretation, refurbishing the activity centre, creating accessible pathways, improving on-site facilities, and enhancing environmental sustainability.
Andrea Selley, English Heritage's Operations Director, North, said: "It is our hope that the project will not only improve the visitor experience at Housesteads but work to involve local communities in creating inspiring activities and volunteering opportunities, and to allow more people to connect with nature and heritage. This funding is a vital first step and we are working at pace to put together our plans for the next round of funding."
Community and Heritage Impact
Helen Featherstone, director for the National Lottery Heritage Fund for the North, expressed the fund's enthusiasm for the project, stating the organization was "thrilled" to support Housesteads. The collaboration aims to engage local communities and create volunteering opportunities, while also promoting connections with nature and heritage.
