Boscobel House – ‘Boscobel’ comes from ‘bosco bello’, or ‘beautiful wood’, possibly a secluded site where Roman Catholics could feel relatively safe – is a 17th century farm, extended and refurbished in the 19th century. Its fame is as a hiding place for the future King Charles II following his defeat at the Battle of Worcester in 1651. Charles hid in one of two ‘priest holes’ in the house, having first (and more famously) escaped detection by climbing an oak tree in the grounds.
The evocative ruins of Clun Castle are set in magnificent countryside on the edge of the tiny town of Clun, whilst kites soar overhead. It is a dominating position on natural high ground in a loop in the river, built to help dominate the border between Wales and England.
Castlerigg is one of several stone circles in the North West and, arguably, the best known. It was constructed in the Neolithic Age, around 3,000BC. Set against the backdrop of the Lakeland fells, it is a dramatic location and, especially on a lonely winter’s day, very atmospheric. Castlerigg was one of the first scheduled ancient monuments in Britain in 1883.
Castlerigg Stone Circle Read More »
The ruins of Dunstanburgh Castle, perched on the cliffs and possibly looming out of the mists, are one of the most iconic sites on Northumberland’s coast. Only accessible by foot, a visit is well worth the short walk from either Craster or Embleton.
Dunstanburgh Castle Read More »
Warkworth Castle, once the residence of the powerful Percy family, overlooks the River Coquet and reflects its historical significance despite its ruins. It witnessed major historical events and even appears in Shakespeare’s works. The nearby Hermitage chapel adds to interest and the village is lovely.
The ruins of the Brocolitia Mithraeum, a 3rd-century temple dedicated to Mithras, are close to the site of the Roman fort of Brocolitia on Hadrian’s Wall. The fort was once home to a garrison of 500 soldiers, but all that can be seen now are grassy mounds.
Temple of Mithras, Brocolitia Read More »
Clifford’s Tower, the last remnant of York’s medieval fortress, features a unique quadrilobate shape from the late 13th century. The origin of its name is unclear, linked possibly to Roger de Clifford. Notably, it was the site of a mass suicide by persecuted Jews in 1190.
Egglestone Abbey, founded in the late 12th century, is a ruined Premonstratensian monastery overlooking the River Tees. It was a poor house and had to survive damage by both Scots and English. It was dissolved in 1540 and yet its remains evoke a serene, historic atmosphere.
Roman Dere Street crossed the River Tees at Piercebridge where remnants of an ancient bridge are visible. Nearby, a Roman fort once guarded the crossing, and a civilian settlement developed in the 2nd century. Portions of the fort’s foundations can still be seen.
Piercebridge Roman remains Read More »
Barnard Castle, established by Bernard de Balliol in the 12th century, overlooks the River Tees and dominates the town. It was connected to notable figures, including the Neville family and Richard III. Now in ruins, it remains a striking historical site, reflecting its past prominence.
