Bellingham

The "Capital of North Tynedale"
Bellingham, pronounced "Bellin-jum" is an ancient market town based round a wide main street, nestling at the foot of some of the wildest and most barren fells in Northumberland. Located on the most famous walk in Britain, the Pennine Way, Bellingham is a magnet for thirsty and weary walkers. The same applies to cyclists on the Reivers Cycle Route of course.

This attractive stone-built town on the edge of the National Park lies nestled between the hills and moors overlooking the North Tyne valley.

A Troubled Past
The peaceful scenes that you see today are at odds with its turbulent past. Its importance as the 'capital' of North Tynedale made it a major target for theft and plunder during the days of the Border Reivers.The troubles of the Border regions brought raids and skirmishes aplenty and the men of Bellingham did their full share of raiding in this stormy period when attack from the north was an ever present threat.

St Cuthberts Church with its rich and turbulent history and unusual stone roof is worth a visit. It also has a well, alleged to have healing powers. Another attraction is Hareshaw Linn, a waterfall hidden in a beautiful wooded glen a short walk from the village centre.

Places of interest

Bellingham Heritage Centre
Located on the Front Street, this museum includes changing displays on the history of farming, railways and everyday life in the North Tyne Valley.
Tel: 01434 220 050
Website: www.bellingham-heritage.org.uk

Hareshaw Linn
Superb 30ft waterfall hidden in a beautiful wooded glen about a half-mile walk to the north of the town.

St. Cuthbert Church
The chancel of this 12th century church was twice burned down However, the risk of fire is said to have ended when a rare type of roof was put on in the 17th-century. This consists of huge stone slabs resting on six sided arches; the walls were heavily buttressed to take the great weight of this unique structure. Also Cuddy's Well is alleged to have miraculous healing powers, as the body of St. Cuthbert was rested in the church while the monks were seeking a final burial place for the saint and the water is still used nowadays for baptisms.

Serviced Accommodation

Boat Farm Cottages
Bellingham, Hexham NE48 2AR
Tel: 01434 220 989

Bridgeford Farm
Bellingham, Hexham, Northumberland NE48 2HY
Tel: 01434 220940

The Cheviot Hotel
Bellingham, Hexham, NE48 2AU
Tel: 01434 220 696

Crofters End
The Croft, Bellingham, Hexham Northumberland NE48 2JY
Tel: 01434 220 034

Demesne Farm Bunkhouse
Bellingham, Hexham, Northumberland NE48 2BS
Tel: 01434 220 258
Website: www.demesnefarmcampsite.co.uk
Email: telfer@demesne.plus.com

Lyndale Guest House
Bellingham, Northumberland NE48 2AW
Tel: 01434 220361

Riverdale Hall Hotel
Riverdale, Bellingham
Tel: 01434 220 254
Website: www.riverdalehall.demon.co.uk

Rose & Crown Hotel
Manchester Square, Bellingham
Tel:01434 220 202

Camping

Brown Rigg Caravan Park
Tel: 01434 220 175

Demesne Farm
Tel: 01434 220 258
Website: www.demesnefarmcampsite.co.uk

The Main Farm
Tel 01434 220 258

Youth Hostels

Bellingham Youth Hostel
Woodburn Road, Bellingham, NE48 2ED
Tel: 0870 770 5694
Website: www.yha.org.uk

Bike Shops

The Village Country Store
Not a bike shop as such but keeps a small stock of spares.