Wheeldale Roman Road — A Trail Through Ancient Yorkshire

An Ancient Route Through the Moors

Stretching across the heather-covered North York Moors, the Wheeldale Roman Road is one of the most evocative ancient remains in northern England.

Running for almost a mile near Goathland, this stone causeway winds across open moorland, revealing the remarkable durability of Roman engineering — and the mystery of where this ancient road truly led.

Whether it was a military supply route or part of a larger network linking Malton (Derventio) with coastal forts, it remains one of the most striking Roman features in Yorkshire’s wild landscape.

The History of Wheeldale Road

The road is believed to date from the 2nd century AD, when Roman forces were consolidating control of northern Britain. Built from large stone slabs laid over compacted layers of gravel, it’s a testament to both Roman skill and long-term planning.

However, archaeologists continue to debate its exact origin. Some argue it’s not Roman at all, but a later medieval or prehistoric trackway reused by the Romans.

Regardless of its date, the craftsmanship, alignment, and scale of Wheeldale make it an extraordinary survivor of ancient times — a visible path through history.

Exploring Wheeldale Roman Road
1. The Route

The most visible section lies between Wheeldale Gill and Fen Bogs, about 4 miles north of Pickering. The raised causeway runs through open heather moorland, offering sweeping views and an unmistakable sense of solitude.

In addition, parts of the route still show the original stone paving and kerbstones, giving visitors a tangible link to the distant past.

2. The Landscape

Surrounded by the purple moors of summer and the golden grasses of autumn, this landscape has changed little since Roman times.
Therefore, walking here feels like stepping into another era — peaceful, remote, and raw in its natural beauty.

3. The Experience

The site is uncommercialised and free to explore. Information panels explain its layout and theories of its purpose. Walkers often combine the route with the nearby Lyke Wake Walk or Roman Road Trail for a longer hike.

Learn more at the North York Moors National Park website

Visiting Wheeldale Roman Road
How to Get There

By Car: Near Goathland, North Yorkshire YO22 5BG. Limited roadside parking at Wheeldale Moor lay-by.

By Train: Nearest station: Goathland (on the North Yorkshire Moors Railway).

By Bus: Services from Pickering and Whitby to Goathland (seasonal).

Opening Hours & Admission

Open daily, all year round. Entry is free.

Facilities

Information boards on site

Walking trails and moorland footpaths

No toilets or café — nearest amenities in Goathland village

Nearby Attractions

Goathland: Picturesque moorland village made famous by Heartbeat and Harry Potter.

Pickering Castle: A Norman motte-and-bailey fortress nearby.

Rosedale Abbey: A peaceful valley with scenic walks and industrial heritage.

Rievaulx Abbey: Magnificent ruins set in a serene valley.

Together, they form an inspiring North York Moors heritage trail.

Why Visit Wheeldale Roman Road?

Walking the Wheeldale Roman Road is like travelling through time. Each stone speaks of centuries of passage — soldiers, traders, and shepherds all treading the same path through wild moorland.

It’s a place of solitude, imagination, and ancient wonder, offering both historical intrigue and natural beauty in equal measure.