Holt Wood

Wood, Forest in Northumberland

England

Holt Wood

Metal detecting at the site of the Battle of Otterburn Volunteers and experienced detectorists follow 2.5m transects marked by coloured flags close to the site of the Battle of Otterbun in the hope of uncovering evidence for the correct location of the battle.

The Battle of Otterburn took place in 1388 as part of the continuing border skirmishes between the Scots and English.

The best remaining record of the battle is from Jean Froissart&#039;s Chronicles in which he claims to have interviewed veterans from both sides of the battle. His account is still regarded with some concern as details, such as the distance between Newcastle upon Tyne and Otterburn, are incorrect. Despite Henry Percy&#039;s force having an estimated three to one advantage over the Scots, Froissart records 1,040 English were captured and 1,860 killed whereas 200 Scots were captured and 100 were killed.

Some have suggested that Hotspur&#039;s rashness and eagerness to engage the Scots and the added tiredness of the English army after its long march north, were without doubt, the reasons for English defeat, despite having a three to one advantage in numbers.
<span class="nowrap"><a title="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Battle_of_Otterburn" rel="nofollow ugc noopener" href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Battle_of_Otterburn">Link</a><img style="margin-left:2px;" alt="External link" title="External link - shift click to open in new window" src="https://s1.geograph.org.uk/img/external.png" width="10" height="10"/></span>

Battlefields Trust: <span class="nowrap"><a title="https://www.battlefieldstrust.com/resource-centre/medieval/battleview.asp?BattleFieldId=34" rel="nofollow ugc noopener" href="https://www.battlefieldstrust.com/resource-centre/medieval/battleview.asp?BattleFieldId=34">Link</a><img style="margin-left:2px;" alt="External link" title="External link - shift click to open in new window" src="https://s1.geograph.org.uk/img/external.png" width="10" height="10"/></span>

&quot;This deed was done at Otterbourne,
About the breaking of the day;
Earl Douglas was buried at the braken bush,
And the Percy led captive away.&quot;
Last verse of The Battle of Otterburne From Sir Walter Scott&#039;s The Border Minstrelsy (1833) <span class="nowrap"><a title="https://www.musicanet.org/robokopp/scottish/itfellab.htm" rel="nofollow ugc noopener" href="https://www.musicanet.org/robokopp/scottish/itfellab.htm">Link</a><img style="margin-left:2px;" alt="External link" title="External link - shift click to open in new window" src="https://s1.geograph.org.uk/img/external.png" width="10" height="10"/></span> — Metal detecting at the site of the Battle of Otterburn Credit: Andrew Curtis

Holt Wood is a beautiful forest located in the county of Northumberland, England. Covering an area of approximately 200 hectares, it is a diverse and enchanting woodland that offers visitors a tranquil escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life.

The wood is primarily composed of mixed deciduous trees, including oak, birch, and beech, which create a stunning canopy that changes with the seasons. These majestic trees provide a habitat for a wide range of wildlife, including deer, badgers, and a variety of bird species.

Holt Wood is known for its well-maintained footpaths and trails, which allow visitors to explore the wood at their own pace. The paths wind through the woodland, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding countryside and glimpses of the wildlife that call Holt Wood their home.

In addition to its natural beauty, the wood also boasts a rich history. It is believed to have been used as a hunting ground by the nobility in medieval times, and remnants of old hunting lodges can still be found within the wood. These historical features add a sense of intrigue and wonder to the overall experience of visiting Holt Wood.

Whether it's a leisurely stroll through the trees or a more adventurous hike along the well-marked trails, Holt Wood offers something for everyone. Its peaceful atmosphere and stunning scenery make it the perfect destination for nature lovers and those seeking a respite from the outside world.

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Holt Wood Images

Images are sourced within 2km of 55.242913/-2.2035779 or Grid Reference NY8794. Thanks to Geograph Open Source API. All images are credited.

Metal detecting at the site of the Battle of Otterburn

Volunteers and experienced detectorists follow 2.5m transects marked by coloured flags close to the site of the Battle of Otterbun in the hope of uncovering evidence for the correct location of the battle. The Battle of Otterburn took place in 1388 as part of the continuing border skirmishes between the Scots and English. The best remaining record of the battle is from Jean Froissart's Chronicles in which he claims to have interviewed veterans from both sides of the battle. His account is still regarded with some concern as details, such as the distance between Newcastle upon Tyne and Otterburn, are incorrect. Despite Henry Percy's force having an estimated three to one advantage over the Scots, Froissart records 1,040 English were captured and 1,860 killed whereas 200 Scots were captured and 100 were killed. Some have suggested that Hotspur's rashness and eagerness to engage the Scots and the added tiredness of the English army after its long march north, were without doubt, the reasons for English defeat, despite having a three to one advantage in numbers. Link

Battlefields Trust: Link

"This deed was done at Otterbourne, About the breaking of the day; Earl Douglas was buried at the braken bush, And the Percy led captive away." Last verse of The Battle of Otterburne From Sir Walter Scott's The Border Minstrelsy (1833) Link

Andrew Curtis