Discover Widdrington

A stay in Widdrington centres on two distinct themes: historic buildings and local history, as well as the landscape and activities in the surrounding area. The architectural heritage ranges from a medieval tower house to an 18th-century Gothic castle and a church with several building phases. Nearby Druridge Bay adds coastal scenery and opportunities for a range of activities. When planning your trip, you can decide which of these aspects you would like to focus on.

Historic Buildings

The Widdrington Castle monument includes the site of a medieval tower house, part of its gardens, and the site of an 18th-century Gothic castle. The remains of Widdrington Castle and the Gothic castle survive underground and as visible earthworks. A medieval site and the Gothic castle therefore represent different periods; underground remains and visible earthworks are also distinct forms of preservation. The monument cannot therefore be reduced to a single building.

Low Chibburn includes a largely intact preceptory, a house, and a bunker. The survival of the preceptory courtyard is particularly rare. Part of the chapel was converted into a bunker during the Second World War. The bunker is therefore not only part of the site, but also the result of a later change of use.

Church and Local History

The Church of the Holy Trinity has a core dating to the late 12th century, which was altered and extended in the mid-14th century. The vestry contains a reused medieval north door; a 13th-century cross stone serves as its inner lintel. The dates should be distinguished: the late 12th century refers to the core, the 13th century to the cross stone, and the mid-14th century to the alterations and extension.

Local history extends beyond the buildings. By the 1150s at the latest, the Widdrington family had a house and lands west of Druridge Bay. Revd John Horsley is another point of reference for religious life: he spent time in Widdrington; after his death in 1732, a Presbyterian meeting continued to be held in the village every month. The historical themes thus range from the family’s early connection to land west of the bay to regular meetings in the village.

Countryside and Activities near Widdrington

Druridge Bay Country Park is located near Widdrington. The park is laid out around a lake, with surrounding meadows and woodland. Druridge Bay also has a beach and sand dunes. Planned activities can also influence your travel plans. If one of these activities is central to your plans, check its current availability before your visit.

Discover more destinations: Mickley, Haydon Bridge, Slaggyford, Gilsland, Ashington, Bellingham, Craster, Bardon Mill

For the main travel guide: Northumberland.