Elsdon 

The historic capital of Redesdale 

Elsdon, the historic capital of Redesdale, is the quintessential Northumbrian Village, with the picturesque ‘chocolate box’ cottages situated around the teardrop-shaped village green, the ancient parish church of St Cuthbert’s, a Pele tower, remains of the Motte and Bailey Castle and the Pinfold on the village green makes it the largest settlement within the boundaries of the National Park. 

Birds of a feather flock together 

Northumberland National Park have some of the finest hay meadows in Europe, the flower rich meadows provide a blaze of colour in summer and are a haven for wildlife. 

Barn owls can often be seen hunting over the grassy fields; the moors around Elsdon are a great place to see and hear Curlew which return each spring to breed, Britain’s largest wading birds, and is used as the emblem for the Northumberland National Park. 

Get on your bike 

There are many enjoyable cycling routes from Elsdon to Rothbury. 

Taking in many of the stunning view points along the way, especially at Simonside forest and Elsdon at the Gibbet and Hepple. 

The nearest Regional Cycling Club – Swarland Cycling Club 

The 19th Tee 

Rothbury Golf Club is a picturesque 18-hole parkland course with spectacular views of the Coquet Val-ley and the distant Cheviot Hills. It’s boundaries include the Simonside Hills, the village of Rothbury, the Cragside Estate and the meandering River Coquet. 

‘Give it a Go’ 

A circular walk taking in fantastic views over Elsdon. Suitable for most abilities allow approx. 1 hour and 

30 minutes for this 2 and a 1/2 mile ‘Easy Grade’ walk. 

Map: O.S. Explorer OL43 

St Cuthbert’s Church 

A church was founded on the site where monks rested after being forced to flea from Lindisfarne Priory when the Danish raided the island, in the 14th century, the first church was rebuilt incorporating stone-work from the earlier building. 

The interior is full of historic remains from medieval grave slabs used as lintels, a set of three horse skulls once used in a pagan ritual when dedicating new buildings, to a medieval stone coffin (outside the church and a Roman gravestone (inside the church) commemorating an Officer inscribed by his widow Julia Lucilla. 

Bird in Bush 

Village Green, Elsdon. 

‘The best pub in the village by miles as it is the only pub in the village by miles’. The owners can’t do enough for you, a friendly welcome with a great selection of real Ales and amazing music nights. 

The ‘Tea’ Trail 

Old School House Tearoom 

This is an essential stop off point and home to the legendary Gibbet Cake – an energy boost for walkers and cyclists alike. Allan and Marion opened their doors in 1978 and continue to give a warm welcome to visitors. There is a wide range of cycling memorabilia to take in while you enjoy your refreshments. 

A few of our holidaymakers’ favourite things … 

Cragside is certainly worth a visit, the first home to be lit by hydroelectricity, beautiful gardens and loads of woodland paths for the kids to run free in. 

Viewing the stars in the Dark Skies!