THE Northumberland Heritage Open Days event has been launched in Newbiggin, with details of 100 attractions across the county that are well worth a visit.
The event’s launch at the maritime centre in Newbiggin – running from September 8-11 – detailed 100 venues, from castles to an example of a shiel used by salmon fishermen to store equipment and for accommodation.
Dating from 1735, Sandstell Road fishing shiel in Spittal, Berwick, is one of the last examples of this type of building, and its bunks and furniture are intact.
Jim Herbert, heritage development officer with Northumberland County Council, said that around 40 shiels once served the River Tweed, used during the busy salmon fishing season.
Also open in Berwick is 44 Ravensdowne, a Georgian town house largely untouched for the last 80 years.
“It is a little bit like a time capsule with a lot of original features, included faded wallpaper from the 1930s,” said Mr Herbert. The back garden contains evidence of the west wall of the Edward VI citadel, built in the 16th century.
A mysterious carved stone has also been discovered, built into a doorway, and bearing three letters. Mr Herbert said the stone could be from the Jacobean palace built by the Earl of Dunbar.
Another attraction is the Wooler heritage trail, including the youth hostel used in the Second World War for Land Army women.
Also throwing open their doors are the Clock Tower in Morpeth, Lindisfarne Castle, Blyth Battery, George Stephenson’s birthplace cottage in Wylam, and Elsdon Pele Tower.
Neil Bradbury, executive member of customer services and culture at Northumberland County Council, said: “The event provides a fantastic and free opportunity for people to find out more about the fascinating heritage on our doorstep.”
The event is being co-ordinated by Northumberland County Council and English Heritage with the help of volunteers and community groups.
Full details of Heritage Open Days in Northumberland can be found on the Northumberland County Council website www.northumberland.gov.uk/open, and a leaflet outlining the programme of events is also available from libraries, tourist information centres and leisure centres across the county.
