IT brings millions of visitors to the North-East each year, and has now been named as one of the UK’s most unmissable experiences.

In a list compiled by travel specialists Lonely Planet, Hadrian’s Wall was ranked fifth in the list of the top 500 best experiences in Britain, Northern Ireland and the Channel Islands in the company’s Ultimate United Kingdom Travelist.

With Edinburgh Fringe topping the list, the inclusion of the world famous landmark in the top five was a big accolade.

Lynn Rylance, area manager at English Heritage for the North-East and Cumbria, said: “We manage a number of stunning Roman attractions’ along Hadrian’s Wall and are thrilled that it has been recognised as a must-see by Lonely Planet.

“We run a range of fun events throughout the year as well as having new museums at Corbridge Roman Town and Birdoswald Roman Fort, so there is lots to see and do.”

Lonely Planet, the respected travel guide book publisher, was full of praise for the “mighty Roman legacy” experienced along the 84-mile Hadrian’s Wall Path.

The citation in the report read: “Hot on the heels of Bath’s thermal baths is another mighty Roman legacy – an enormous defensive wall stretching 73 miles across Britain.

“This phenomenal feat of engineering was built under Roman emperor Hadrian between AD 122 and 128 to keep out Scottish Picts. Rising to a height of up to 15ft, with a width of almost 10ft, it took 15,000 men six years to construct it from local whinstone.

“Only 10 per cent survives today, but what does makes an unforgettable impression.”

Other recommendations to experience in Tynedale to feature in the top 500 were stargazing in Northumberland National Park (262nd) and viewing Hexham Abbey (419th).