History is a big word, and Northumberland is a big place, so this is a look at some of the history that you can ‘see’ when you’re staying at The Tankerville Arms. If you’re expecting castles, then check out our article on Northumberland’s Top Ten Castles; here we’ll show you some other amazing things to explore while you’re in the magnificent county of Northumberland.
Hadrian’s Wall
It’s a bit of a drive from Wooler, but my, what a drive! Epic landscape and arrow-straight Roman roads bring you to a truly extraordinary piece of history – Hadrian’s Wall. A series of connected forts that cross the entire country, the Wall is a testament to the awesome power of the Roman Empire. There are some well preserved forts to visit, try Housesteads and Vindolanda, which resonate with the life that once went on there. Not to be missed! Read more here.
Ad Gefrin
Closer to home is the palace of King Edwin of Northumbria and his successors. Marked by a monument and soon to be brought to life by the Ad Gefrin Visitor Experience (and distillery, happy days!) in Wooler, this 7th Century settlement was made up from great timber halls, a timber grandstand and a great enclosure. Read more about it and where to see it here.
The Holy Island of Lindisfarne
Only accessible via a tidal causeway, it’s quite an adventure visiting the island before you even set foot on it! Saint Aidan founded a monastery there in 635AD, the revered Saint Cuthbert lived there and it was given the title of ‘holy’ after a brutal attack by the Vikings in 793. It is also the birthplace of the extraordinary illuminated Lindisfarne Gospels. Find out more here.
Battle of Flodden Field
Not too far from Wooler is the scene of the death of King James IV of Scotland, killed during the battle of Branxton Moor (latterly called the Battle of Flodden Field) by an army raised by Henry VIII and led by Thomas Howard, the Earl of Surrey. There are various spots you can visit around the area that really help you build up a picture of where both the armies camped and where they fought. Find out more here.
The Home of Mrs Earl Grey (and her tea!)
Earl Grey, the former Prime Minister who oversaw the introduction of the Great Reform Bill of 1832, has undoubtedly been eclipsed by his wife who commissioned the creation of Earl Grey tea – a blended tea with added bergamot oil – to offset the limey taste of the local water. Not only can you visit the house where she and her husband lived (Howick Hall, Gardens & Arboretum), but you can have a lovely cup of Earl Grey in the tea rooms too! Find our more here.
