Shotton's Dean

Valley in Northumberland

England

Shotton's Dean

Middle Dean, Northumberland Looking over the perimeter of Middle Dean Hillfort, to the right is the deep gully of Middledean Burn, — Middle Dean, Northumberland Credit: Rebecca A Wills

Shotton's Dean is a picturesque valley located in the county of Northumberland in northeastern England. Nestled within the beautiful countryside, this small but charming valley offers a tranquil escape from the hustle and bustle of city life.

Surrounded by rolling hills and dense woodlands, Shotton's Dean boasts stunning natural beauty. The valley is home to a diverse range of flora and fauna, making it a haven for nature enthusiasts and wildlife lovers. Visitors can spot a variety of birds, mammals, and plant species as they explore the area.

The valley is crisscrossed by a meandering river, which adds to its enchanting atmosphere. The river offers the perfect setting for a leisurely stroll or a peaceful picnic by the water's edge. The sound of flowing water and the gentle rustling of leaves create a soothing ambiance that is truly rejuvenating.

Shotton's Dean is also rich in history and heritage. The valley is dotted with remnants of ancient settlements, including prehistoric stone circles and Roman ruins. History buffs can delve into the past and uncover the stories that have shaped this area over centuries.

For those seeking outdoor adventures, Shotton's Dean provides ample opportunities for hiking, cycling, and horseback riding. Several well-marked trails crisscross the valley, offering breathtaking views and invigorating exercise.

Overall, Shotton's Dean is a hidden gem in Northumberland, offering a peaceful retreat surrounded by nature's splendor. Whether you are looking for a scenic walk, a historical exploration, or simply a place to unwind, this valley has something for everyone.

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Shotton's Dean Images

Images are sourced within 2km of 55.408743/-1.9916175 or Grid Reference NU0012. Thanks to Geograph Open Source API. All images are credited.

Middle Dean, Northumberland

Looking over the perimeter of Middle Dean Hillfort, to the right is the deep gully of Middledean Burn,

Rebecca A Wills

Cochrane Pike, Northumberland

Looking east-northeast from west of Cochrane Pike. In the middle distance (left to right) can be seen Wether Hill, West Hill and Old Fawdon Hill. On top of both Wether Hill and Old Fawden Hill can be found the remains of ancient settlements.

Rebecca A Wills

Interesting sheep pass(?)

Temporarily blocked, but the structure is designed to be wired into a fence structure but leave a suitable gap.

Gordon Brown

Looking SE from Cochrane Pike

Gordon Brown

Earthworks associated with prehistoric settlement

"Earthwork remains of a partly enclosed late prehistoric settlement with at least 7 house platforms." ‘Heritage Gateway - Results’. 2012. Heritagegateway.org.uk <Link

> [accessed 1 November 2022].

Mick Garratt

View to Old Fawdon Hill

Mick Garratt

Wether Hill Iron Age hillfort, palisade, enclosure, and ditch

‘Heritage Gateway - Results’. 2012. Heritagegateway.org.uk <Link

> [accessed 28 October 2022] ‌‘Heritage Gateway - Results’. 2012. Heritagegateway.org.uk <Link

> [accessed 28 October 2022]

Mick Garratt

Middledean Camp

Viewed from across the precipitous Middledean Burn, the double earthbanks of the Iron Age fort known as Middledean Camp stands out against the smooth rounded hills of Breamish Valley in the Cheviots. Double earthworks such as this are termed ‘bivallate’. Promontory hillforts are those which are defended by steep slopes on 2 or 3 sides. From this angle Middledean appears to have just the one side, but in fact the bluff extends around the south and east sides. Hillforts and other prehistoric sites abound in these hills. It has long been established that they were built by ancient Britons about 2300 years ago. But what is not clear exactly why they were built. They do not seem to have been purely for defence. Middledean has several internal hut circles. It could have been seasonal accommodation for the people who practised transhumance when cattle were brought into the hills for summer grazing. Another possibility is that it may have had a ceremonial or ritual use. For sources see my blog Link

Mick Garratt

Road leaving Little Ryle

Richard Webb

Cast iron fingerpost, Little Ryle

The red thing is a gate.

Richard Webb

Little Ryle to Great Ryle road

Ford in times of high water flow with a footbridge to the side.

Richard Webb

The triangulation pillar on Hart Law

Trig point S8034 is at 341m in an improved grazing area.

Walter Baxter

Trig point on Hart Law

Hart Law is a low hill among the Cheviots lying nearly north of the small settlement of Alnham. Hogdon Law, Cushat Law and Shill Moor can be seen in the distance.

Trevor Littlewood