Hardknott Roman Fort
(Hardknott Castle)
(See also Ravenglass and Hardknott Pass)
 It's not the size or
condition of the remains of Hardknott Roman Fort (called Mediobogdum by the Romans) built between
120 and 138AD, that makes it so memorable. It's the dramatic site at the peak of the famous pass
of the same name. The stunning long distance views across the Lakeland fells, and as far distant
as the ocean, are breathtaking.
Because of its location the Romans were able to control the road, called the
10th iter, which ran from Ravenglass (Glannaventa) on the west coast to Ambleside
(Galava) on the eastern side of the mountains. It was an important military site for the Romans,
one of a chain in a link of connecting forts and roads that ensured military control of the
natives of the area.
 Built during the reign of
the Emperor Hadrian, the fort covers three acres. 500 infantrymen were stationed here. Visible
stone remains include granaries, a headquarters building, and a commandant's house. The remaining
foundation walls, varying in thickness, show that the fort had towers at each corner and gateways
on the four sides. The barracks were built of wood. A bath house with a beehive shaped sauna bath
and parade ground-the best preserved in England-can be found outside the walls.
 Two inscribed stones were
found at the site. One dates to the reign of Hadrian and possibly indicates the fort was built on
an earlier structure. Archaeologists believe this fort was used for only a short time, as there
is no evidence of its use past the second century. Much is still to be excavated.
Exposed to the elements, the fort is the best preserved in Cumbria. Sited at the
top of Hardknott Pass on the road over the mountains, it is relatively isolated and inaccessible
even in modern times.
Edwin Waugh said in Rambles in the Lake Country, "Hardknot rose bleak
and craggy to the skies. . . .Around the ruins mighty mountains frowned, Scawfell, Hardknot, and
Harter Fell, all savage desolation. That wild scene must have changed very little since Roman
trumpets woke its echoes."
Hardknott Roman Fort
9 miles northeast of Ravenglass at the western end of Hardknott Pass on minor road off the A595
from Ravenglass or A593 from west of Skelwith Bridge.
Open site.
Owned by English Heritage and managed by the National Trust.
Photos courtesy of BarbaraBallard
Back to Roman Remains
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