Castle In Elsdon, Northumberland
An amazing example of an early 12th century Norman Motte and Bailey castle.
If you are into Norman Motte and Bailey castles from the 12th century, and to be honest, who isn't, then you won't see a finer example that this beauty up in Elsdon.
Elsdon Castle was built in 1076 by Robert De Umfraville, relative of William the Conqueror. It was originally an earth and timber motte and bailey fortification. The bailey, or courtyard was protected by a high bank and ditch covered in thorns, known as the hedgehog.
It was occupied for around 200 years before it was superseded by Harbottle Castle as a consequence of the civil wars.
It is one of the finest examples in England of an early 12th century Norman Castle, and you can clearly see where the original motte and bailey would have been.
Here is a bit more information on the two possible routes up.
The pink P is where the parking is. If you are feeling adventurous, then follow the blue path back up the main road where you will find a gate on the right giving you access to the hill. That is the way I took as wasn't aware of the alternate route until I got up there. It was very steep though.
The better route is the orange route which takes you up a track towards a house. At the top there is a little bridge and an information board about the castle.
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What three words
huddling.escalates.rinse
Lat / Long
55.235433, -2.099721
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There appears to be a short steep way, or the a longer, more gentle way up. See the place information above.
What three words
tomato.adhesive.happy
Lat / Long
55.234166, -2.100005
There is a little parking area just on the corner of the road with enough for a few cars in.
Contributed by Simon Hawkins
Thanks for checking out this place on the Fabulous North! I do enjoy a wander out in to the countryside trying to find hidden gems that not many people know about. You can't beat a rogue Pele tower up a remote hill or a mysterious stone circle or a stunning waterfall secluded in a forest.
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