Stand in the centre of Alnwick. Look around. One of the oldest features that you can see is the road layout. It’s impossible to put a date on this, but it certainly pre-dates the Norman castle. Another ancient feature of the town is the way that buildings are arranged. This is based on medieval burgage … Continue reading Rods, poles and perches
Many Alnwick buildings have found a new purpose. There are numerous examples. The Maltings and both former Workhouses are now residential. Plans have been prepared to convert 2, Bailiffgate and Sion Chapel to hotels. Historic England have used the conversion of St Mary’s Church to Bailiffgate Museum as a case study in sustainability. So when … Continue reading Secondhand September
Is this the oldest purpose-built Mechanics’ Institute that has survived? The Literary and Philosophical Society in Newcastle began as a “conversation club” in 1793, and by 1825 had evolved into a library and a meeting point where the city’s intelligentsia could debate matters of the day. Similar societies were formed in Manchester (1781), Birmingham (1789), … Continue reading Mechanics’ Institute
The Office of National Statistics publishes estimates of the numbers who move into Northumberland and the numbers who move out. Last year they reckon that half of those who moved into Northumberland came from the North-East. Roughly a third came from immediately south of the county: 21% from Newcastle upon Tyne, and 15% from North … Continue reading Recognise that accent?
Mr Stafford gave up his home so that we can continue to enjoy Bondgate Tower. So far we’ve been unable to find out anything else about him. Can you help? Once there were four gateways into the walled town of Alnwick. Pottergate Tower was rebuilt in 1768. Clayport Tower was removed in 1804 to improve … Continue reading The lost house of Mr Strafford
