The nearby village of Corbridge offers a perfect mix of things to see and do, with an abundance of history, a fantastic mix of independent shops, a traditional market place with pretty church, a beautiful river walk, festivals and events, yet all the while retaining all the charm, character and friendliness of a smaller Northumberland village.
Corbridge was originally a busy Roman Town and now 2000 years later it describes itself as a destination of distinction, and we couldn’t agree more. The village centres around the Market Place where you will find the ancient, monastic Church of St Andrew’s which was founded over 1300 years ago and is one of the most important surviving Saxon monuments. Along with regular services the church is also host to some of the loveliest annual events such as a Flower Festival and hugely popular Christmas Tree Festival and is part of all the events taking place in the village throughout the year.
The Pele Tower also stands within the Market Place, with it’s unmistakable heritage, this three-storey defensive Pele Tower with one room to each storey was built in the churchyard in 1318 and used as the vicarage for the adjacent church. However following a contemporary yet sympathetic restoration, it is now a unique and quirky micro pub, it really has to be experienced to be believed.
Corbridge is a haven for those who love to browse and shop with a plethora of independent shops, Corbridge is truly what shopping local is all about and it’s one of our favourite places to shop. Each little shop holds a unique offer and you will be guaranteed a warm and friendly welcome. Corbridge holds a Christmas shopping evening each year to coincide with the Christmas Tree Festival and the village comes alive with stalls, carol singers, the most amazing shop windows displays and as you wander the small and tastefully decorated streets will you find every shop door open and be drawn in by the smell of mince pies and mulled wine. Corbridge knows how to do Christmas!
There is plenty of free parking to the South of Corbridge and it’s just a short walk to village which takes you over the 17th century stone bridge, the oldest surviving bridge crossing the beautiful River Tyne. The bridge was the sole survivor of the destructive floods of 1771 and it has seen many floods since. There are lovely walks to enjoy in and around Corbridge and you can even download an app and choose a Heritage Trail which will take you on scenic and historic routes.
River Tyne 17th Century Stone Bridge
Half a mile to the west of the village is Corbridge Roman Town which unlike other Roman sites wasn’t a heavily guarded fortress but was a supply base and bustling town where the Romans and civilians would pick up food and provisions.
Managed by English Heritage, you can still walk through the town’s streets and experience a true time-capsule of Roman life. In the museum you can see the objects found during excavations, including ‘the Corbridge Hoard’. The Hoard was one of the most significant finds in Roman history, with armour and trinkets and providing a fascinating insight into the life of a Roman soldier.
Corbridge is only a short 10 minute drive from St Oswald’s Farm and with it’s huge choice of cafes, coffee shops, restaurants and pubs it is a perfect day out during your stay. We hope you enjoy it as much as we do.
Good to read. Time the village was fully appreciated. I grew up in Corbridge (moving there in 1948). Now live in Canada but do miss the history.
So glad you enjoyed our blog post on lovely Corbridge, our guests love the history, the shops and of course the warm welcome this village always provides!