This blog is for lovers of the wonderful and historic counties of Northumberland, Durham and Tyne and Wear
If you are looking for inspiration as to where to visit here it is!
Sheila Bull writes about unusual and intriguing aspects of our Borderlands.
Her particular passion for Northumberland stems from her ownership and management of Chatton Cottages, two lovely self-catering cottages set in rural Northumberland, North East England.
Heart of Lanchester Cottage is next to the village green at the centre of our bustling Durham village, about 8 miles from Durham City. The cottage has recently undergone renovation and provides high quality accommodation for up to 3 visitors. A fabulous location to enjoy both Durham County and near Tynedale as well as the cities of Tyne and Wear.
Yew Tree Cottage is a charming period property nestling in a picturesque hamlet known as Broomhaugh, next to Riding Mill, Northumberland. The cottage is well-placed to give convenient access to the many attractions of the Tyne Valley and Hadrian's Wall Country.
Both cottages are cleaned and maintained by the owner - who is very 'hands on' and will go that 'extra mile' to ensure your comfort..
Driving north along the road to Coldstream (A697) takes you through some very lovely countryside.
But you need to get off the beaten track.
Before you get to Cornhill-on-Tweed and at Crookham, you can turn left along to West Learmouth.
This photo was taken in June when the rape fields were in full bloom looking absolutely gorgeous.
A few miles futher south, again west of the A697 is Flodden field of the famous battle (1513).
An unusual find in North Northumberland: crossing the River Tweed to Scotland, the Union Chain Bridge lies a bit off the beaten track.
Placed not far from Berwick at near Horncliffe and Paxton.
Definitely worth a visit this bridge is not far from the Chain Bridge honey farm.
Its likely you will spot anglers wading in the river depending on the time of year.
This wrought iron suspension bridge was completed in 1820.
If you are on the Northumberland castle trail you might enjoy visiting the tiny village of Edlingham west of Alnwick.
Drive west along the B6341 toward Rothbury and you will find the castle and church on your right - down a bank.
You can park near the church.
Feel free to walk around the ruins of what was once an impressive (and expensive) fortress.
Originally a manor house converted with fortifications against the Scots in the 14th century.
Etal Castle, Northumberland was built around 1340.
It had strategic importance in the border wars with Scotland.
Just before the Battle of Flodden in 1513, the castle was briefly captured by the Scottish King James IV.
Today the castle lies in ruins but there is enough to see to make a visit worthwhile.
Open to the public for most of the year, their is an additional historic exhibition hosted by English Heritage.
7 Church View, Lanchester, County Durham, DH7 0ES
Broomhaugh, Riding Mill, Northumberland, NE44 6EG
We welcome any enquiry you have about our wonderful self-catering holiday cottages. You can book our cottage via our website or contact us with any questions about our cottage facilities, late holiday availability or to find out what is on in the Northumberland region.
We look forward to hearing from you.
Mobile: 07770253586
Email: info@chattoncottages.co.uk
Holiday Cottage - Sleeps 3 - High Quality Holiday Accommodation.
Heart of Lanchester Cottage, 7 Church View, Lanchester, County Durham, DH7 0ES
tel: 07770 253586
mail@heartoflanchester.co.uk
Beautiful Northumbria Holiday Cottage.
Yew Tree Cottage, Broomhaugh, Riding Mill, Northumberland, NE44 6EG
tel: 07770 253586
mail@yewtreecottageridingmill.co.uk