Attractions and Places To See around Thirston - Top 20

English Heritage. On Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday in the summer the very good café at the Warkworth Cricket Club is open for very good cakes, cheese scones and bacon or sausage baps.

Beautiful castle on a hill above the village

In the case of a "market cross," such as the one we encounter again in Rothbury, one would have to ask the fundamental question of whether it is actually primarily a small sacred monument—as its cross shape suggests—or whether it is more of a secular object. In times long past, such a cross—unlike the classic wayside crosses or field crosses—was only permitted to be erected if the corresponding village also possessed the so-called "market rights"—that is, if it had been granted them by the local ruler.

Evidence of prehistoric settlements suggests Rothburys importance stretches back millennia. During the medieval period, it became a vital part of the Barony of Warkworth, changing hands between various noble families like the FitzRogers, Claverings, Percys, and Ogles. A key turning point came in 1291 when King Edward I granted Rothbury a market charter. This solidified its position as a commercial hub for the surrounding agricultural region, particularly for cattle and wool. The town's newfound prosperity, however, attracted unwanted attention. The 15th and 16th centuries saw a period of unrest as Rothbury became a target for Border Reivers. These Scottish raiders were notorious for plundering towns along the Anglo-Scottish border, and Rothbury, situated at a crucial crossroads with a ford over the River Coquet, bore the brunt of their attacks. Despite facing these challenges, Rothbury persevered. Today, the town's historic core reflects its layered past. Buildings showcase diverse architectural styles, each whispering a tale from a different era. The impressive All Saints Parish Church stands as a prominent example. This church, with its Saxon cross nestled beneath the font and Victorian restorations, embodies the town's enduring legacy.

The Rothbury War Memorial is a Grade II listed building located on High Street in Rothbury. It was built in 1923 to commemorate those from the parish who died in World War I. The memorial is made of sandstone and bronze. It features a square stone pedestal with a stepped plinth, surmounted by a stone cross with a bronze sword attached. The pedestal contains the names of the fallen on the front and rear sides, with an inscription on the third side. The inscription on the front reads: "TO THE MEMORY OF/ THOSE OF THIS PARISH WHO GAVE/ THEIR LIVES FOR THEIR COUNTRY/ 1914-1918/ (NAMES)". The inscription on the rear reads: "TO THE MEMORY OF/ THOSE OF THIS PARISH WHO GAVE/ THEIR LIVES FOR THEIR COUNTRY/ 1939-1945/ (NAMES) KOREA 1952/ (NAME)". The inscription on the side reads a famous excerpt from the poem "For the Fallen" by Laurence Binyon. The simple yet striking design reflects the strong local ties to those who died in the wars. The memorial also includes the names of those who died in World War II and the Korean War.

The Rothbury market cross has a two-part history. The original market cross, constructed in 1722, was a square building with a roof and open sides. It served as a shelter for people attending the weekly market. Documented in 1827, the structure was unfortunately demolished due to safety concerns. A new market cross was erected in 1902. This one, built from Cragside rock and featuring elaborate carvings, stands as a memorial to Lord and Lady Armstrong. The surrounding area has also undergone changes. Today, the Armstrong cross is situated in a peaceful location with a well-maintained lawn and railings, replacing the previous wartime and utilitarian versions.

Warkworth Castle and Hermitage form one of the most unusual pairs of medieval monuments in Britain. The castle was probably laid out in its present form in about 1200 and was the favoured residence of the powerful Percy family from the 14th to the 17th centuries. As the Earls (and later Dukes) of Northumberland, they were among the greatest landowners in northern England. Nearby, on the banks of the river Coquet and accessible only by boat, are the remains of a chapel known as the hermitage, carved directly out of the cliff rock.

Very pretty city to explore.👍😎