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These ancient latrines can be found at Housesteads Roman Fort, the remains of an auxiliary fort on Hadrian’s Wall, Northumberland.

Roman latrines, also known as Roman toilets or communal toilets, were an integral part of Roman public and private sanitation infrastructure.

The remains of the latrines at Housesteads Roman Fort were constructed on Hadrian's wall in AD 122.

The romans hygienically placed them at the lowest corner of the fort, the water tank at the left still has the original lead sealing between its slabs.

Lying midway along Hadrian’s Wall, Housesteads is the most complete example of a Roman fort in Britain, and one of the best-known from the entire Roman Empire.

It was built within a decade of AD 122, when work on the Wall began, and was garrisoned by an 800-strong infantry regiment until the end of the 4th century.

Excavations have revealed major buildings, defences and the civilian settlement outside its walls.

The first Roman presence is evident in the broad foundation of Hadrian’s Wall along the north edge of the escarpment, and in a turret, one of a regular system of towers and small forts (known as milecastles) along the line of the Wall.

The turret now lies within the fort walls.

It was not only a defensive structure, but also a symbolic statement of Rome's imperial power, marking the border between the so called civilized world and the unconquered barbarian wilderness.

As the British archaeologist Neil Faulkner explains, "the wall, like other great Roman frontier monuments was as much a propaganda statement as a functional facility".

There is some evidence that Hadrian's Wall was originally covered in plaster and then whitewashed: its shining surface would have reflected the sunlight and been visible for miles around.

Much of the wall has now disappeared.

Long sections of it were used for roadbuilding in the 18th century, especially by General Wade to build a military road (most of which lies beneath the present day B6318 "Military Road") to move troops to crush the Jacobite rising of 1745.

Large parts of the wall still remain, however, and the World Heritage Site is managed by English Heritage, and you can book tickets via their website (members are free).

Someone who recently visited said: “What an incredible glimpse into history amazing that we have the privilege to visit such places, we did a decent walk and would love to go back again.”

Another person added: Walked the length of the wall and the middle sections around Sycamore Gap and Birdoswald area are the most dramatic sections to walk.

The various excavated portions with museums are astounding although a bit pricey if with a family. Looking out over certain sections of the wall is like stepping back in town.”

If you’re a keen hiker, the Hadrian’s Wall Path is an 84 mile (135 km) long National Trail stretching coast to coast across northern England, from Wallsend, Newcastle upon Tyne in the east to Bowness-on-Solway in Cumbria on the west coast.

The National Trail follows the line of the Hadrian’s Wall UNESCO World Heritage Site, passing through some of the most beautiful parts of England – from rolling fields and rugged borderlands to the vibrant cities of Newcastle and Carlisle – with dozens of fascinating museums along the way.

Anyone who is reasonably fit can walk the Hadrian’s Wall Path and the route is relatively easy.

The 23 mile (37 km) section between Chollerford and Birdoswald is the most difficult, with lots of short climbs and descents.

The route is clearly marked and it’s worth considering whether you would rather walk the Path from east-to-west, in the direction the wall was originally built, or west-to-east, which is recommended for more favourable weather conditions.

The Trail is fragile and can become muddy in wet weather so the best time to walk Hadrian’s Wall Path is between May and October.

The Trail and Hadrian’s Wall are very popular in summer months, particularly in July and August.

Ancient Latrines

In ancient Rome, public latrines were common in cities, military camps, and other communal areas.

Communal Design: Roman latrines were often communal, with multiple users sitting next to each other on stone or wooden benches with holes.

The design allowed for efficient use of space and resources.

Running Water: Many Roman latrines were designed with a system of running water beneath the bench seats.

This water served both for cleaning purposes and for carrying away waste. The water flowed continuously, helping to prevent odors and improve sanitation.

Cloaca Maxima: In Rome, the Cloaca Maxima was a large sewer system that played a crucial role in the disposal of waste, including that from latrines.

This sophisticated sewer system was an impressive engineering feat for its time.

Socialising Spaces: Roman latrines were not only places for bodily functions but also served as social spaces where people could engage in conversation.

The design of the latrines, with benches facing each other, encouraged social interaction.

Architectural Variety: The design of Roman latrines varied, ranging from simple wooden structures to more elaborate, well-engineered stone constructions.

In some cases, latrines were located in bathhouses or other public buildings.

Private Residences: Wealthy Romans in their homes often had private latrines.

These were usually more sophisticated and could include amenities such as comfortable seats, decorative elements, and more advanced flushing systems.

Sponges on Sticks: Romans used sponges mounted on sticks, called "tersoria," for personal hygiene after using the latrine.

These sponges were often shared among users, and sometimes they were soaked in a vinegar solution for cleanliness.

It's important to note that the Romans had a relatively advanced understanding of hygiene and sanitation for their time.

While the communal nature of their latrines might seem unusual to modern sensibilities, these facilities played a role in promoting public health and hygiene in ancient Rome.

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