A hidden gem believed to be the highest stone-built Roman fort in Britain is preparing for an exciting month of visits and activities.

Epiacum Roman Fort, near Alston, will welcome archaeologist Stewart Ainsworth, known for his appearances on TV show Time Team, from September 8 to 10.

Mr Ainsworth will lead a landscape archaeology masterclass at Epiacum, during which he will help enthusiasts read and interpret over 2,000 years of history at the site.

And from September 23 to October 1, a team of archaeologists will descend on Epiacum for a week long dig.

Epiacum has always fascinated archeologists. It was awarded Scheduled Ancient Monument stats back in 1957, after a section of the fort's northern ramparts and main fort wall, were uncovered.

In recent years, efforts have been made to encourage more people to visit the site.

Earlier this year, the fort was awarded a grant of almost £50,000 from the Heritage Lottery Fund, to finance further research and visitor events.

Last year, it received Visit England funding to open a new car park at the site, and local authority funding for a new information panel.

Epiacum's Yvonne Conchie said: "We want people to come along and be part of what is an exciting time here at Epiacum.

"Aside from organised events, we have two walking trails that are available for people to enjoy."

A guided family walk will take place at Epiacum on Wednesday August 30, from 1.30pm.

It will explore the ramparts and will enable participants to understand the origins of the fort, and how people lived in its remote landscape setting.

The Stewart Ainsworth visit has already become fully booked. However, people could still book a place on the week-long archaeological dig, and also on the guided family walk.

For more information about all events, and also the fort's two walking trails, the Nervian Trail, and the Family Clue Trail, visit www.epiacumheritage.org