Burrow Walls Roman Fort

Location

Burrow Walls Roman Fort was at the end of the Western Coastal Defences This was the extension of Hadrian’s Wall from Bowness on Solway for about 25 miles down the Cumbrian coast.

There were Milecastles and turrets like the Wall, but no Wall. (See Western Coastal Defences) But there is speculation that they may have been linked with a wooden palisade and ditch. It is 5 miles south of Maryport and 5 miles north of Moresby.

The fort is located on the northern bank of the Derwent Estuary, which nearly 2000 years ago could have been more extensive. Worthington is south of the estuary.

BURROW-WALLS-ROMAN-FORT-NORTH-OF-THE-DERWENT-ESTUARY

It stands on cliffs overlooking the Siddick marches and a small coastal plain. These cliffs have eroded since the fort was abandoned in the north west of the corner of the fort. The site is further confused by a railway going NE through this area of the fort.

What Details are Available

Burrow Walls Roman Fort, the Roman name of the site is unknown. The garrison is not known, probably infantry. It was a narrow fort of 3 acres, measuring 292ft by 450ft. Only the clay and cobble wall foundation could be found. The Northgate was found near the cliff edge. A medieval hall was built on the same site.

Fourth century finds have been found. The unusual shape gives an indication that the fort was built later than expected 130s AD

Inscriptions Found