Hadrian's Wall, running from Wallsend to Bowness, is a much visited attraction and an iconic landmark with over 200 years of serious research behind it. The Western Frontier has had barely 70 but through the efforts of a small band of archaeologists and the Hadrian's Wall Heritage Trust Ltd this is gradually changing. The frontier route followed in this guide, running from Ravenglass to Bowness on Solway, is punctuated by Roman forts, the visible remains of a frontier of watchtowers, mileforts and manned bases.

Clifford Jones is an archaeologist and lecturer who has spent over thirty-five years researching the Roman occupation of West Cumbria. He is a passionate supporter of Community Archaeology, Real Ale and Real Pubs, and a commercial member of Cumbria Tourism actively encouraging people to visit the gems of the western coast. He is also a Board member of the Council for British Archaeology (North).