Around the time that Hadrian’s Wall was built, cAD 122, another great fort (Uxelodunum) was built on the side of the river where Stanwix now is and was later enlarged to house the 'ala Petriana', a 1,000-strong regiment.

The first fort, which lies beneath the castle, was built of turf and timber. This was rebuilt after AD 105 in stone and remained in use, probably as a supply depot. A large civilian settlement grew up alongside the two forts, and by the mid-2nd century Luguvalium was one of the most important military bases in Roman Britain, probably also serving as a centre of administration.

Both ancient sites can be easily accessed by bicycle BOOK HERE