| The famous Battle of Otterburn was fought on August 19. 1388. Between English and Scots.
The battle left over 3,000 dead - The vast majority from the English side.
The battle has been made famous by the ballard singers and poets of the region who have woven a romantic flavour around the skirmish.
Today the site is much visited by tourists fascinated by the bloody history of the region. |
| The village of Otterburn (now one word) is a charming place located on the banks of the Otter, from which it derives its name.
The village and its inhabitants feature in many tales of the Border Reivers.
Thankfully, the place is more peaceful these days, and features several pubs and a hotel. There is also a working woolen mill which is open to visitors. |
| The River Rede is renowned for its fishing - Brown Trout, Sea trout and Salmon in season.
Otters are now re-establishing themselves on the river after many years of decline. Thanks to the hard work of farmers & conservationists.
You may also be lucky enough to spot a Grey Heron enjoying a spot of fishing in the shallows. |
| Monkridge Hill - The home of Northumbrian Quality Meats.
Looking out of the farmhouse window to the river valley below, you can see the newly constructed pond which is becoming a haven to waterfowl - This year providing a home to a pair of Mute Swans and their young. |
| Ottercops lies on wild heather clad moorland.
These peat-rich moors are virtually unchanged since the days of the Border Reivers.
The moors provide a haven for birds such as Curlew and Grouse (both Red and Black) & during the Spring & Summer months the moors are filled with the song of Skylarks flying high above. |
| The village of Elsdon was once one of the most important places in the English borderlands - Being recognised as the capital of the, "Middle Marches".
Many clues to this importance still remain in the pretty village - The skyline is dominated by the magnificent Elsdon Tower, built in 1415. And the remains of an ancient Motte and Bailey Castle (of around 1080) lie on the outskirts of the village. |
| The village of West Woodburn lies at the southern, "Gate" of Redesdale.
The area has been a place of habitation for thousands of years with prehistoric and Roman camps dotted all around. |
Mouse over the map above to reveal snippets of fascinating facts from around the area.
Monkridge Hill and the surrounding area is a fascinating place with centuries of history and folklore built up around it.
* The map above is reproduced from a map by Lieut A.Armstrong from 1769 and has used the original place names and spellings from that map. It is not intended as a route map to the farm! If you would like directions to come and visit us, simply contact us, and we will provide you with an up to date route map and directions.
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