We are taking you back to Roman Britain with one of the country’s most stunning villages
If you’re after a truly special day out this little-known village cannot be beaten.
The jewel in the crown of Corbridge in Northumberland is undoubtedly Corbridge Roman Town, one of the country’s most important archaeological sites. Not only that, this charming village was once the northernmost town of the mighty Roman Empire.
Located just a mile from the village centre, it’s a captivating snapshot of history, with original Roman streets you can stroll along and a museum brimming with finds from the renowned Corbridge Hoard – a trove of 2nd Century armour, tools and personal items unearthed in the area.
A stone’s throw away is Hadrian’s Wall, a testament to Corbridge’s central role in Roman Britain. But Corbridge isn’t stuck in a time warp.
Its marketplace and nearby streets are bustling with independent traders, many nestled within old stone buildings and hidden courtyards, reports Chronicle Live.
You can meander between artisan bakeries, a traditional grocer, florists, fashion boutiques, jewellers and beautifully stocked homeware shops, all within a few hundred metres.
Forum Books, housed in a breathtakingly converted Methodist Chapel complete with an intact pulpit, is worth the journey alone.
If you’re hungry, Corbridge is a foodie’s paradise. With cosy cafés for leisurely lunches, a deli, a wine bar, top-notch gastropubs, and a variety of Italian, Indian and English restaurants, it’s easy to turn a day trip into a night on the town.
Nestled by the breathtaking St Andrew’s Church, you’ll discover The Pele Tower (no connection to the Brazilian footie legend), which has been transformed into a charming pub.
St Andrew’s itself is one of Britain’s oldest churches, boasting Saxon roots that trace back to the 7th century. The bridge over the Tyne, the river’s oldest, offers scenic riverside strolls.
For those keen on a longer walk, Aydon Castle is just a stone’s throw away, while the surrounding moorlands and countryside make Corbridge a prime spot for cycling and hiking.
Despite its tranquil, rural vibe, Corbridge is surprisingly well-connected. The railway station sits on the Tyne Valley Line between Newcastle, Hexham and Carlisle, and the A69 and A68 are conveniently nearby.