Edlingham Castle is located a few miles to the south west of Alnwick in Northumberland.
In around 1300 a stone hall house was built by Sir William Felton. At around the same time the Anglo-Scottish wars were raging and many of the landed gentry fortified their homes. Felton was no exception, adding fortifications to the house and making it a formidable defensive stronghold.
In around 1340 the magnificent Solar Tower was added at the southern end of the house. In the mid-17th century the house was abandoned as a dwelling. It fell into disrepair and much of its stone was cannibalised for other buildings.
By the end of the 19th century only the solar tower was visible on top of a grassy mound. The low lying remains, which you see today, were later excavated by English Heritage.
Despite now being called Edlingham Castle, it was not truly a castle - more of a fortified family home. Behind these walls there was no garrison of soldiers to fight off the marauding Scots; only a family and their servants trying to defend what was theirs.
Alnmouth is a charming little village located on the Northumberland coast.
It is a popular destination for tourists and locals alike, offering a unique blend of history, natural beauty, and modern amenities.
The village's name, Alnmouth, is derived from the Old English words 'alne' (alder) and 'mūð' (mouth), which refers to the mouth of the River Aln, which flows through the village and into the North Sea.
The river has played a significant role in the village's history, as it was once a thriving port and a center for trade.
Alnmouth's history dates back to the 12th century when it was granted a charter by King Henry II, allowing it to hold a weekly market and annual fair.
The village grew in importance over the centuries, becoming a hub for shipbuilding, fishing, and trade. However, in 1806, a catastrophic flood caused significant damage to the village and its harbour, leading to a decline in its maritime activities.
Today, Alnmouth is known for its beautiful sandy beaches, which stretch for miles along the coast. The village's beach is a popular spot for swimming, sunbathing, and water sports, such as kayaking and windsurfing.
The Northumberland Coast Path, a long-distance walking trail, passes through Alnmouth, offering stunning views of the coastline and the surrounding countryside.
Alnmouth is also home to a number of historic buildings and landmarks. The village's parish church, St. John the Baptist, dates back to the 12th century and features a mix of architectural styles, including Norman, Gothic, and Georgian. The church's tower offers panoramic views of the village and the surrounding area.
Another notable landmark is the Ferryman's Hut, which was once the site of a ferry service across the River Aln estuary. The ferry service ceased operation in the 1960s, but the landing remains as a reminder of the village's maritime past.
Alnmouth is a vibrant community with a range of amenities and attractions. The village has several pubs, restaurants, and cafes, offering a variety of dining options. There are also a number of shops, galleries, and boutiques, showcasing local crafts and produce.
In addition to its natural beauty and historic landmarks, Alnmouth is also known for its cultural events and festivals. The Alnmouth Arts Festival, held annually in June, celebrates the work of local artists and craftspeople, while the Alnmouth Food Festival, held in September, showcases the best of Northumberland's food and drink.
Alnmouth is a captivating village that offers a unique blend of history, natural beauty, and modern amenities. Its picturesque setting, rich heritage, and vibrant community make it a must-visit destination for anyone traveling to Northumberland.
Warkworth Castle, a magnificent medieval fortress located in the picturesque village of Warkworth in Northumberland, England, boasts a rich and fascinating history that spans over a thousand years.
The castle's strategic position along the River Coquet has played a significant role in shaping its past, as it served as a stronghold for various rulers and families throughout the centuries.
The origins of Warkworth Castle can be traced back to the early 12th century, when it was first built by the de Percy family, who were powerful barons in the region.
The initial structure was a simple wooden fortification, which was later replaced by a stone keep in the late 12th century. This stone keep, known as the 'Great Tower', still stands today and is one of the most iconic features of the castle.
In the 14th century, the castle underwent significant expansion under the ownership of Henry Percy, the 1st Earl of Northumberland. He transformed Warkworth Castle into a grand and imposing fortress, complete with a great hall, a chapel, and luxurious living quarters. The castle's defenses were also strengthened with the addition of a curtain wall, towers, and a barbican.
During the 15th century, Warkworth Castle played a pivotal role in the Wars of the Roses, a series of civil wars fought between the House of Lancaster and the House of York for control of the English throne. The Percy family, who supported the Lancastrian cause, used the castle as a base for their military operations. However, in 1464, the castle was captured by the Yorkist forces, led by the Earl of Warwick, and the Percy family was temporarily dispossessed of their property.
In the 16th century, the castle's fortunes began to decline as the Percy family's influence waned. The castle was largely abandoned, and many of its buildings fell into disrepair.
By the 17th century, Warkworth Castle was little more than a romantic ruin, a far cry from its former glory.
In the 19th century, the castle was acquired by the industrialist and philanthropist William George Armstrong, who undertook a program of restoration and preservation. Armstrong's efforts helped to save the castle from further decay and ensured that it would remain a significant historical landmark for future generations.
Today, Warkworth Castle is managed by English Heritage and is open to the public as a popular tourist attraction. Visitors can explore the castle's ruins, learn about its rich history, and marvel at the stunning views of the surrounding countryside.
The castle's enduring legacy serves as a testament to the power, wealth, and ambition of the families who once called it home.
Cragside is a grand 19th-century country house located in the picturesque village of Rothbury, Northumberland.
It was built in 1863 for industrialist and inventor Lord Armstrong, and is considered to be one of the most impressive examples of Victorian architecture in the country. The house is surrounded by beautiful gardens and is situated on a hillside overlooking the stunning Northumberland countryside. It was the first house in the world to be lit by hydroelectric power and was at the forefront of technological innovation during its time. The house is now owned by the National Trust and is open to the public, allowing visitors to step back in time and experience the opulence and grandeur of the Victorian era.
One of the most striking features of Cragside is its extensive collection of pre-Raphaelite art, which includes works by renowned artists such as William Holman Hunt and Edward Burne-Jones. The house is also home to a fascinating collection of artifacts and inventions created by Lord Armstrong himself, showcasing his brilliance and ingenuity. Visitors can explore the many rooms of the house, including the stunning library, dining room, and drawing room, all of which are adorned with intricate woodwork, stained glass windows, and beautiful furnishings.
The gardens at Cragside are a sight to behold, with over 30 miles of footpaths winding through the woodland and around the lakes on the estate. Lord Armstrong was passionate about nature and spent years transforming the landscape into a diverse and picturesque garden, which includes a rock garden, a fernery, and a rhododendron maze. The gardens are also home to one of the largest collections of conifers in Europe, making it a must-visit destination for any nature lover.
In addition to the house and gardens, Cragside also offers a range of outdoor activities for visitors to enjoy. The estate has several hiking trails, including one that leads up to the top of the nearby Simonside Hills, providing breathtaking views of the surrounding countryside. There is also a children's play area, a café, and a gift shop on the estate, making it a perfect destination for a family day out.
Cragside has a rich history and has played a significant role in the development of technology and the arts in England. It is a testament to the vision and creativity of Lord Armstrong, and a visit to this magnificent house and its grounds is a journey through time. Whether you are interested in history, art, nature, or simply looking for a peaceful retreat in the countryside, Cragside has something to offer for everyone.
St Mary's Lighthouse is a popular tourist destination located in Whitley Bay, North Tyneside.
This iconic Grade II listed lighthouse features prominently on local gifts and memorabilia (aff. link). It has been an important landmark in the area for over 120 years, providing a guiding light for ships navigating the treacherous waters of the North Sea. It is currently owned by North Tyneside Council, having been decommissioned by its previous owner, Trinity House, in 1984.
Built in 1898, St Mary's Lighthouse stands at an impressive 82 feet tall and is situated on a small rocky island, accessible only by a short causeway that is submerged during high tide. This unique feature adds to the allure of the lighthouse, creating a sense of mystery and adventure for visitors.
The lighthouse itself is painted white, with a distinctive lantern room at the top. When the light was operational it used to display a double-flashing white aspect every 20 seconds. In its early days, the lighthouse was manned by a team of dedicated keepers who would ensure that the light was always shining and the foghorn was ready to sound in case of any danger.
Today, the lighthouse is no longer in use for maritime navigation, but it still serves as a beloved symbol of the town and a popular attraction for visitors. The tower has been restored and is now open to the public, allowing visitors to climb the 137 steps to the top for breathtaking views of the surrounding coastline.
In addition to its historical significance and architectural beauty, St Mary's Lighthouse is also home to a small museum that showcases the rich history of the lighthouse and its keepers. Visitors can learn about the technology and techniques used to operate the light and the daily lives of the keepers and their families.
The lighthouse is also surrounded by a beautiful nature reserve, making it a perfect spot for a peaceful stroll or a picnic with stunning views. The reserve is home to a variety of seabirds and other wildlife, making it a haven for nature lovers. Grey seals (aff. link) are regularly seen basking on the rocks at the rear of the lighthouse.
St Mary's Lighthouse is not just a place to visit, it's an experience. The sight of the towering red and white tower against the backdrop of the North Sea is truly breathtaking. The sound of the crashing waves and the call of the seagulls create a tranquil atmosphere, making it easy to see why this lighthouse has captured the hearts of so many visitors over the years.
Whether you're interested in history, architecture, nature, or simply looking for a unique and memorable experience, St Mary's Lighthouse is a must-visit destination. It's a place that holds a special place in the hearts of locals and visitors alike, and continues to shine as a beacon of beauty and wonder on the coast of Whitley Bay.
