Alnmouth

Heritage Site in Northumberland

England

Alnmouth

Birling, Northumberland The coast line at Birling Carrs, Birling. — Birling, Northumberland Credit: Rebecca A Wills

Alnmouth, located in Northumberland, England, is a picturesque coastal village that holds great historical significance. Renowned for its stunning natural beauty and charming architecture, Alnmouth is often referred to as a heritage site. Nestled at the mouth of the River Aln, the village provides breathtaking views of the North Sea and the surrounding countryside.

Alnmouth is rich in history, with evidence of human occupation dating back to the Neolithic period. The village became a thriving port in the medieval era, contributing to its architectural diversity. Visitors can admire the quaint cottages, elegant Georgian houses, and remnants of medieval buildings that line the narrow streets. The distinctive red and yellow sandstone buildings add to the village's unique character.

The village boasts several historic sites, including the Church of St. Waleric. This 12th-century church is a fine example of Norman architecture, featuring a beautiful stained-glass window and a Norman font. The nearby Alnmouth Castle, now in ruins, dates back to the 12th century and offers visitors a glimpse into the past.

Alnmouth's natural beauty is equally captivating. The village is surrounded by sandy beaches, dunes, and rolling hills, making it a popular destination for nature enthusiasts. The Alnmouth Estuary is a designated Site of Special Scientific Interest, attracting a wide variety of birdlife and wildlife.

Today, Alnmouth continues to charm visitors with its rich history, breathtaking landscapes, and warm community spirit. The village offers a range of amenities, including quaint shops, cozy pubs, and delightful cafes. Whether exploring its historic sites, enjoying outdoor activities, or simply taking in the idyllic scenery, Alnmouth is a true gem in Northumberland's heritage landscape.

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Alnmouth Images

Images are sourced within 2km of 55.37/-1.606 or Grid Reference NU2508. Thanks to Geograph Open Source API. All images are credited.

Birling, Northumberland

The coast line at Birling Carrs, Birling.

Rebecca A Wills

No Vehicular Access

For many years we have driven slowly down this very bumpy road giving access to the coast south of the River Aln. Today it is blocked!

Russel Wills

Ruined Mortuary Chapel

Built 1869-70 at a cost of 177.6s.3d. raised by public subscription, as part of a plan to re-open the cemetery on Church Hill (site of the ancient parish church of St. Waleric, the remains of which were destroyed by the 1806 flood). The boats on the left are in Alnmouth Harbour. The Christmas Day Storm of 1806 caused the river to cut through the low ground to the north of Church Hill, destroying part of the village in the process. The remains of the southern loop, where the camera is sited, then silted up, leaving the river to follow the course it does today, which cuts Church Hill off from the village.

Russel Wills

Track leading from A1068 to the beach

Someone, perhaps the person who has put up the 'No dog fouling' signs, has sprayed the 'unpleasant droppings' with blue paint. There are scores of them all the way down. Horrible! It spoils a pleasant walk.

Russel Wills

Dog fouling

Someone has blue-painted the dog foulings. In response the 'foulers' have hung their 'collections' on the tree and thrown the 'collection bag' on the grass. How inconsiderate can you get? Who is supposed to clear up the mess? See also Link

Russel Wills

Crop field near Warkworth

Oilseed rape after the yellow flowers, nearly ready for harvest.

Stephen Craven

Parking for the open day at Shortridge Hall

A strip of crop had been removed to make way for parking. Fortunately for drivers the ground was very dry.

Stephen Craven

Former pill box near Shortridge Hall

Apparently it was feared in the Second World War that enemy troops might land on Northumberland's beaches and push inland. This 'beehive' pillbox is located adjacent to a country road about 1km from the sea. Google Streetview shows that until very recently it was covered in vegetation and therefore not visible unless you were looking for it. The new owners of Shortridge Hall have opened it up and added a 'silent soldier' figure on the new fence alongside the road.

Stephen Craven

Inside a former pill box near Shortridge Hall

See NU2407 : Former pill box near Shortridge Hall for the outside.

Stephen Craven

New yew hedge Shortridge Hall

When mature, these yew trees will form a substantial hedge along a curved line across the garden.

Stephen Craven

Wildflower garden at Shortridge Hall

This garden has been completely reimagined in the last few years under new owners, so the flowers are clearly sown to make a wildflower area, rather than being a natural meadow.

Stephen Craven

Shelter at Shortridge Hall

A wooden framed shelter with copper roof.

Stephen Craven

North side of Shortridge Hall

The hall dates from 1898 - see shared description.

Stephen Craven

Stag sculpture at Shortridge Hall

One of several metal sculptures of animal figures around the garden.

Stephen Craven

Swan pond at Shortridge Hall

One of several metal sculptures of animal figures around the garden including this pair of swans. The exact location is approximate as this pond is part of a recent redevelopment of the garden under new owners, so it does not appear on even the largest scale maps yet.

Stephen Craven

Deer family at Shortridge Hall

Among several metal sculptures of animal figures around the garden. The exact location is approximate.

Stephen Craven

Mercury sculpture at Shortridge Hall

Among several metal sculptures of animal figures around the garden, although this looks like an antique rather than newly cast like the others. The exact location is approximate.

Stephen Craven

Square pond at Shortridge Hall

The exact location is approximate as this pond is part of a recent redevelopment of the garden under new owners, so it does not appear on even the largest scale maps yet.

Stephen Craven

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Alnmouth is located at Grid Ref: NU2508 (Lat: 55.37, Lng: -1.606)