Author: St Oswald's Farm

Discovering Morpeth Chantry Bagpipe Museum

Posted on April 14, 2025 by - North East Attractions, Northumberland, Visitor Attractions

Tucked away in the heart of Morpeth, the Morpeth Chantry Bagpipe Museum is a hidden gem that celebrates the rich heritage of both Northumbrian and traditional bagpipes from across Europe and beyond. Housed in a beautifully restored medieval chapel, the museum offers a fascinating journey through the history, craftsmanship, and the music of these unique instruments.

alt="image of bagpipes with Northumberland tartan"
Credit and Copyright ©: Colin Davison

Northumberland is the only county in England with its very own musical instrument, the Northumbrian small pipes, and the Morpeth Chantry Bagpipe Museum is the first bagpipe museum in the UK. The Northumbrian small pipes are bellows-blown bagpipes and they produce a sweet mellow sound and although they date back to the 17th century they are still played today and have become more well known through musicians such at Kathryn Tickell who is the most famous contemporary player of these traditional pipes.

This little museum not only tells the history of these remarkable pipes but also delves into piping traditions and of course the bagpipe museum would not be complete without allowing you the opportunity to immerse yourself in the iconic sound of the Northumbrian small pipes during your visit.

alt="close up image of bagpipes at Morpeth Chantry Bagpipe museum"
Credit and Copyright ©: Colin Davison

Morpeth Chantry Bagpipe museum houses over 120 sets of pipes in its collection and includes pipes from across Europe, including decorative sets from Scotland, Spain, Italy, France, Estonia and beyond. It showcases an extensive collection from master clock maker and pipe enthusiastic, William Alfred Cocks, a set of bagpipes said to have belonged to King Louis XIV of France, a miniature set made for Queen Mary’s Dolls’ House and pipes from the Jacobite Rising.

alt="Inside of museum area at Morpeth Chantry Bagpipe Museum"

Alongside these amazing displays, visitors can also watch the museum space come to life with regular live musical performances, ‘Learn to Play in a Day’ and ‘Meet the Piper’ sessions. It’s a hive of creative activity, with the Northern Poetry Library and Craft Centre also located in this historic building.

Whether you’re a seasoned piper, a history enthusiast, or simply curious about the hauntingly beautiful sounds of the pipes, this little museum provides an immersive experience that brings some traditions of the past to life.

Morpeth Chantry, also known as All Saints Chantry, is a Grade I listed building situated adjacent to the site of the ancient bridge across the River Wansbeck in Morpeth. It was built in the 13th century and served as a chapel dedicated to All Saints and was also a toll house where local townspeople had to pay the priest a toll to cross the river, and in fact you can still see the foundations of the town’s Medieval bridge in the river below. Keep your eyes peeled as you admire the Chantry building and see if you can spot the oldest window in Morpeth.

alt="Front aspect of Morpeth Chantry bagpipe museum"

Through the centuries the Chantry building has been many things, the town grammar school from the 1550s up until 1846, as council offices and concert venue in Victorian times, and as a mineral water factory in the 20th century and more latterly The Chantry was finally restored in the 1980s to be used as the museum and craft centre that you see today.

Morpeth is not only home to this unique little museum but it is also a lovely town to visit so be sure to enjoy all this thriving market town has to offer, the parks, gardens, shops, weekly market and the old Morpeth Castle gatehouse. For more information on what Morpeth has to offer head to our recent blog post.

alt="Morpeth river wansbackw ith rowing boats"
Rowing boats on the River Wansbeck in Morpeth
Morpeth Clock Tower

Visit Amble

Posted on March 10, 2025 by - North East Attractions, Northumberland, Visitor Attractions

Northumberland is blessed with some of the loveliest towns and you will find each one with its own distinct character and appeal, and each one with a unique offering for a perfect day out. The town of Amble sits on the stunning Northumberland coast and is somewhat of a hidden gem that perfectly blends seaside charm with a vibrant local culture. Amble prides itself as being “The Friendliest Port,” and this picturesque harbour town offers visitors a bustling marina, an abundance of fresh seafood, and breathtaking coastal walks.

alt="Looking out to sea from Amble with red and white lighthouse"

The Harbour Village in Amble is a charming waterfront destination that perfectly captures the town’s maritime spirit. Located along the picturesque harbour, this collection of wooden retail pods is home to a variety of independent traders, offering everything from handcrafted jewellery and artisan gifts to locally produced food and drink. It’s the perfect place for some light retail browsing or sampling some freshly caught seafood, or just simply enjoying a coffee while taking in the views of the marina.

alt="Amble harbour village with retail pods"
Harbour Village in Amble

The town is also home to The Northumberland Seafood Centre that gives visitors a unique insight into the region’s fishing heritage and sustainable seafood practices. Here, you can see a variety of locally caught fish and seafood, learn about responsible fishing methods and it’s the perfect opportunity to buy the very freshest catch of the day and get some top tips on how to create the tastiest fish dish!

alt="Amble harbour with lobster pots"

Amble offers many great dining options and as you would expect have a fabulous choice of seafood. Among the many fishy options is The Fish Shack, a rustic harbourside retreat that provides a relaxed atmosphere with harbour views and outdoor seating. Their menu not only includes the obligatory fish and chips but a fantastic choice of the freshest daily catch including smoked seafood, freshly steamed mussels, delicious seasonal specials with the menu also including Lindisfarne oysters and divine sharing platters. This modest little restaurant has also featured on The Hairy Bikers TV series and is hugely popular and therefore booking is advisable.

Amble has plenty of walking opportunities too and is the perfect place for a coastal stroll or a walk to take in some of the local wildlife. Enjoy a 3 mile stretch of the Northumberland Coastal Path that joins Amble to the village of Warkworth which gives you the perfect opportunity to explore this picturesque little village with and the impressive Warkworth Castle.

alt="Warkworth Castle framed in an arch shape"
Warkworth Castle

Amble is also home to the ‘Bord Waalk‘, a name derived of local dialect, and is an art trail set in and around this pretty coastal town which takes in a fantastic array of physical sculptures, poetry, and music and with each piece of art inspired by birdlife and the beautiful surrounding coastline. The 15 art installations have been produced by artists from all over Europe and from Amble itself. The trail can be done in part or in sections and stretches from Hauxley Nature Reserve up to Amble braid which offers wonderful views of the estuary and coastline.

alt="large pale blue sculpture in shape of duck egg with blue skies behind"
alt=sphere sculpture of birds in silver"

Just a mile offshore from Amble is Coquet Island with its distinctive lighthouse, the island is a vibrant RSPB Seabird Reserve and is home to 40,000 nesting seabirds including Puffin, Common Sandwich and Arctic Terns, and the rare Roseate Tern. Coquet Island is home to 90% of the UK’s Roseate Tern population and is the only place where they bred and therefore visiting the island is prohibited by law to protect the wildlife, however if you would like to get a little closer to this seabird haven there are ‘Puffin Cruises’ from Amble harbour that run from late March.

alt="island in the distance off the the coast of amble with pink sunset sky and flat sea"
Coquet Island off the the coast of Amble

In May each year Amble becomes awash with all things puffin with their annual Puffin Festival which of course celebrates the Coquet Island puffins! The event includes guided nature walks, bird watching, local history talks, exhibitions, arts and crafts, watersports and live music throughout the town and of course boat trips to see the wonderful birds themselves.

alt="close up of puffin with fish in mouth"

This friendly little port is a great destination for visitors and whether you’re delving into the life of a lobster, exploring the nearby historic Warkworth Castle, indulging in delicious local cuisine at the Harbour Village, or simply soaking up the tranquil seaside atmosphere, the town of Amble offers a lovely day out in Northumberland.

Let’s Talk Breakfast

Posted on February 10, 2025 by - Dining Out, Northumberland, St Oswald's Farm

There’s something special about eating out for breakfast and one of the joys of a self-catering holiday is the freedom to dine in or dine out whenever you choose. While having a kitchen gives you the option to whip up your own meals, there’s something undeniably appealing about stepping out in the morning and letting someone else do the cooking while you enjoy a relaxed start to your day. Whether you’re having a lazy day or fuelling up for a busy day sightseeing, dining out for breakfast in a local café or restaurant is always a treat.

alt="eggs benedict with a garnish of basil"

Whether it’s a full English, freshly baked pastries or a stack of fluffy pancakes our local offer of cafes and restaurants have it covered. The nearby village of Corbridge is packed with small independent cafes with many offering a breakfast menu, for a light bite breakfast head to Massey’s or the The Watling Coffee House or for a more substantial start to your day then The Heron Cafe in The Corbridge Larder offers options such as a full English Breakfast or French Toast Bacon and Maple Syrup or Smashed Avocado Toast. The popular and award winning Grant’s Bakery now also offer a breakfast menu alongside their tempting bakery selection which could be ideal if you’re hoping to take away some sweet or savoury treats to enjoy during your day out.

Our local market town of Hexham has plenty of options too, head to The Shire Gate or The Small World Cafe, or if you’re looking for a vegan or vegetarian option then Hextol Tans offer a superb menu and caters for gluten free diets too. If coffee and a scone is more to your liking then try The Queen’s Hall cafe, we highly recommend their Cheese and Bacon scones!

Nearer to home and just two miles down the road at Chollerford, The Riverside Kitchen does exceedingly good bacon and sausage sandwiches or perhaps you’d opt for eggs on toast, all freshly prepared using thick cut crusty bloomer bread so all you need to do is decide to have either red or brown sauce! The Riverside Kitchen also has an great selection of cakes, traybakes, scones and the most amazing pies and quiches.

A little further afield but perhaps ideal for a later brunch en route to your chosen day out we have two lovely coffee shops. If you’re heading north east then The Running Fox at Kirkharle has a fabulous ‘Foxy Breakfast’ menu and is ideal if you’re visiting Wallington Hall, or if you’re travelling east from us the very lovely Bywell Coffee Barn, both of which have lovely outdoor seating if the weather allows an al fresco breakfast. Top tip – If you head to Bywell Coffee Barn call in at North Acomb Farm shop for some lovely farm fresh produce.

Of course the beauty of self catering means if you really do just prefer to stay in your PJ’s then our local farm shops and bakeries provide a wonderful choice of tempting goodies to enable you to rustle up your own leisurely breakfast. We also offer the option to pre-order a breakfast pack when you stay with us which includes sausage, bacon, black pudding, fresh orange juice and our own farm eggs.

alt="breakfast table set with orange juice, croissants and a jam jar of daffodils"

Enjoying breakfast out while on holiday is not only a lovely way to start the day but an opportunity to savor some of our local produce, to relax in a different setting and it means you’ll be well fuelled for enjoying a full day of sightseeing around the beautiful County of Northumberland.

Remarkable Romans – Chesters Roman Fort

Posted on January 10, 2025 by - Hadrian's Wall Area Attractions, North East Attractions, Northumberland, Visitor Attractions

alt="Chesters roman fort ruins in grassed area"

No trip to Northumberland would be complete without a visit to at least one of the amazing Roman sites along Hadrian’s Wall and just a 5 minute drive from St Oswald’s Farm lies the impressive Chesters Roman Fort which gives a remarkable window into Britain’s Roman past. As one of the best-preserved Roman cavalry forts in the country, Chesters offers visitors an unparalleled opportunity to step back nearly 2000 years and explore life at the edge of the Roman Empire.

Chesters Roman Fort, originally known as Cilurnum, was built around AD123 to guard a strategic crossing over the River North Tyne. This fort was home to a garrison of around 500 Roman soldiers who were tasked with defending this frontier of the Roman Empire. Today, Chesters stands as a testament to what can only be described as amazing Roman engineering and its well-preserved ruins invite visitors to imagine the daily lives of the soldiers who once patrolled these grounds.

One of the highlights of the Chesters site is the remarkable bathhouse area where you can explore the various rooms used for cold, warm and hot baths, and marvel at the advanced underfloor heating system, a sophistication that truly showcases Roman engineering!

alt="Chesters bath house changing area"
Bath House changing rooms! Image credit: Peter C Angus

As you explore this picturesque riverside location the remains of the commandant’s house provides a glimpse into the accommodation of the fort’s commanding officer and the size and layout of this structure highlights the status and importance of the fort’s leadership. Take a walk through the ruins of the soldiers’ barracks and stables where the Roman cavalry and their horses lived and trained which paints a vivid picture of life in this once bustling Roman military base. As you walk among its ancient stones and imagine the lives of the Roman soldiers who once called it home, you’ll gain a profound appreciation for the legacy of the Roman Empire in Britain.

Chesters museum and collections are housed in a Victorian building on-site and is a treasure trove of Roman artefacts from intricately carved altars and inscriptions to tools and personal items, the collection provides deeper insight into the lives of the Romans stationed at Cilurnum. The collection at Chesters contains 53 centurial stones which give the names of the centurions who, together with their men built Hadrian’s Wall. When you stay with us be sure to try to spot our Centurion stone that is built into the front of the farmhouse here together with a second engraved stone in one of our farm buildings.

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alt="roman centurion stone in old building"
Roman Centurion stones at St Oswald’s Farm

When visiting Chesters you will undoubtedly spot the remains on the eastern river bank of a bridge and in fact the remains are not of one but two successive bridges, an early one that carried Hadrian’s Wall and a second, much larger one, that carried the Military Way, the road that serviced the Wall. This site is free to visit and can be accessed by a short walk either from Chesters or from nearby Chollerford and details can be found here.

alt="Chesters bridge abutment with clube skies and grassed riverbank"

Chesters Roman Fort isn’t just a historical site it’s a really lovely place to visit, so whether you’re a true history buff or just someone who wants to take in a little history in a pretty spot this timeless treasure in the heart of Hadrian’s Wall country won’t disappoint. For more Roman sites to enjoy see our posts on Vindolanda, Housesteads and The Roman Army Museum.

The Perfect Place

Posted on December 6, 2024 by - Northumberland, St Oswald's Farm

We know when you’re planning your holiday to Northumberland you want to the find the perfect place to stay. You want to enjoy fantastic days out but then look forward to returning to lovely comfortable and cosy accommodation where it’s a pleasure to relax and enjoy some downtime. Here’s our top 20 reasons why staying at St Oswald’s Farm is the perfect choice if you’re looking for the very best Northumberland experience.

  • We’re centrally located for exploring the whole of Northumberland with many of the superb attractions within an hour’s drive
  • Ideally positioned on the ‘military’ road to enjoy the magnificent Roman sites including The Roman, Army Museum, Chesters, Vindolanda, Corstopitum and Housesteads – all less than a 20 minute drive
  • Unique location built of top of Hadrian’s Wall itself and adjacent to the battle site of Heavenfield and the idyllic St Oswald’s Church (anyone a Vera or L J Ross fan!)
  • Only a short drive to local amenities in the local town of Hexham and the pretty village of Corbridge
  • Hugh choice of local pubs and restaurants for all tastes and budgets if you’re looking to dine out
alt="the perfect place for enjoying Hadrians Wall - Vindolanda at sunset"
Magnificent Roman sites
  • The farm sits on the edge of the stunning Northumberland National Park and under the darkest starriest Northumberland skies and with local observatories only a short drive away
  • A rural, peaceful and quiet location in the heart of the Northumberland countryside
  • Lovely doorstep walks offering spectacular views of the surrounding area
  • Small family run business on our working farm
  • We’re friendly owners and we live on site – we’re here to help but in no way intrusive
alt="View with cows and mist St Oswald's Farm view the perfect place"
The perfect place for enjoying countryside views
  • One bedroom – perfect for couples or solo travellers
  • No other cottages on site and you’re free to walk around our farm
  • Every guest receives a warm and personal welcome by us
  • Heavenfield Cottage is a real home from home with luxurious touches and attention to detail
  • Well equipped kitchen for a true self-catering holiday
alt="the perfect place for indulgent bath"
The perfect place to retreat back to each day
  • Easy to use website, booking and payment system or we’re always happy to help.
  • Excellent communication from booking through to arrival and a digital guidebook to help you get the most from your stay
  • Dedicated parking with sole use of the EV charger
  • Walker and cycle friendly with cycle store, boot store, drying cupboard and lots of handy extras
  • Lots of guidebooks and walking routes provided

At St Oswald’s Farm we strive to ensure everything is just how you’d want it to be, we want you to enjoy your stay and we want you to feel welcome and hope you love St Oswald’s Farm just as much as we do.

To find out what previous guests have had to say please take a look at some of reviews here or for more information about Heavenfield Cottage and to see all our availability and prices or to book please go to www.stoswaldsfarm.co.uk

We look forward to welcoming you here!

Why Northumberland is the perfect UK staycation destination

Posted on November 7, 2024 by - Hadrian's Wall Area Attractions, Northumberland

When it comes to UK staycations, there are so many appealing options in the UK, from the rugged coasts of Cornwall to the charming villages of the Cotswolds, the choices are vast. However there is one county that stands out more than any other when it comes to the perfect staycation destination and of course it’s our stunning Northumberland. It may be the most northern county but Northumberland offers the perfect blend of natural beauty, history and a tranquility that’s hard to find anywhere else.

Northumberland boasts miles and miles of unspoilt coastline, much of it protected as an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty and unlike the crowded shores you might find elsewhere, Northumberland’s beaches are very often quiet, allowing for peaceful walks along vast stretches of golden sands. There are dunes, rockpools, coves and some of the beaches have nature reserves where you can see first hand an array of wildlife just doing it’s thing! Bamburgh, Druridge, Alnmouth, Warkworth, Embleton, Beadnell to name a few and they are all perfect destinations for taking in the beauty of the Northumberland coastline.

alt="wide sweeping beach Northumberland"
Embleton Bay

Northumberland has a vast and rich history and offers a journey back in time unlike any other county in the UK. Hadrian’s Wall is a UNESCO World Heritage site and stretches across the county and in fact St Oswald’s Farm sits on top of the wall itself and within just a stone’s throw there are fantastic roman sites such as Housesteads, Vindolanda and Corstopitum where you can take in all our Roman history. Northumberland also boasts more castles than any other in England – Bamburgh Castle, Alnwick Castle, and Warkworth are up there with the large and impressive but there are over 70 castles and bastles across Northumberland and each of these fortresses with their own stories of battles, royalty and legends, making Northumberland an absolute haven for history buffs.

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Alnwick Castle

For those who enjoy getting their walking boots on Northumberland’s landscapes are nothing short of stunning. Northumberland National Park boasts 405 square miles of rolling hills, picturesque valleys and serene rivers and is perfect for walking, hiking, mountain biking or simply soaking up the natural beauty. The National Park is also home to The Cheviot Hills, a range that offers more challenging hikes but will reward you with the most incredible panoramic views.

If you love sitting under a starry sky then Northumberland offers one of the darkest skies in Europe, Northumberland International Dark Sky Park is one of the largest in the UK and allows visitors to see a dazzling display of stars, planets, and meteor showers on clear nights. It’s one of the best places in the UK to see the Milky Way and more and more often the Northern Lights when conditions are just right. For a truly unique experience you can book a stargazing event at one of our fantastic observatories.

alt="dark starry skies and milky way perfect for a staycation"

Across the county will find lovely market towns such as Morpeth, Hexham & Alnwick and villages such as Corbridge, Alnmouth and Rothbury and each one with it’s own character and charm and where you will find history hidden around every corner. Northumberland is unrivalled when it comes to friendliness and you will receive the warmest of welcomes and perhaps unlike the busier tourist hotspots you’ll find that we’ll always have time for a friendly chat. If you’re a National Trust or English Heritage member then you’ll be in awe of the impressive and very beautiful properties and gardens such as Cragside, Belsay Hall and Wallington, all of which are an absolute must.

alt="Cragside house and gardens staycation in northumberland"
Cragside House & Gardens

Northumberland has a fantastic reputation for excellent local food, from fresh seafood at our coastal towns to locally brewed ales and unique Northumbrian cheeses, the region offers plenty to delight all you foodies. Our choice of restaurants is second to none and will suit all tastes and budgets from Michelin Star cuisine to barista coffee, homemade cakes and everything in between and you will find our businesses proud to use the freshest local ingredients. The county boasts an array of local markets, craft shops, art galleries and wonderful independent shops that sit alongside some high street names so there’s plenty of opportunity to pick up some wonderful souvenirs.

Northumberland is renowned for it’s peace and quiet and while other counties are often bustling with tourists during peak seasons, Northumberland remains a haven of tranquility so whether you’re hoping to enjoy a quiet beach walk, hike the remote hills, saunter around our lovely gardens or explore some of the historic castles, a Northumberland staycation offers an unmatched sense of calm and escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life.

alt="open countryside and sunset with clear skies over Northumberland, perfect staycation destination"
Peace and tranquility guaranteed

Choosing Northumberland for your next UK staycation means choosing stunning landscapes, a rich history and a sense of calm that is often hard to find elsewhere. Whether you’re after a a country escape, a historical journey or an adventure under the stars, Northumberland has it all but without the crowds. So make that booking, pack your bags, bring your walking boots, and prepare to fall in love with our enchanting northern county. A Northumberland staycation isn’t just a holiday; it’s an unforgettable experience.