The name Haltwhistle, earlier Hautwysel, is believed to be derived from its location, signifying either "The high hill by two rivers" or "The watch on high." In either case this would have much to do with the oval shaped mound called the Castle Hill, which was fortified from ancient times by an earthworks and castle, parts of which remained until the mid sixties.
The traditions of `Northern friendliness' still exist here in Haltwhistle. You might be surprised to find that the locals have time to stop and pass the time of day and there are many local historical family names still trading in the community. The town retains many of the quaint `olde worlde' character and charms of a bygone era and you are likely to sense the more leisurely pace of life. No need for you to hurry.
Start to wander around the Market Place and you will come across the 13th Century Church of the Holy Cross. Close by is the Centre of Britain Hotel with its Pele Tower incorporated into the building. Follow the Reiver Trail around the town and you will see five other Bastle Houses (defensible houses) all of which date back to the Town's intense Reiving past.
Relatively modern industrial archaeology is also in evidence as you wander the area. A short stroll from the town centre is Haltwhistle Burn and a walk which reveals part of the town's industrial heritage, now surrendered to some outstanding natural wildlife.
Despite its Mediaeval background, the area around Haltwhistle has a history going back to the Bronze and Iron Ages when settlements dotted the surrounding hills.
It was in the first century AD that the Roman Legions arrived to defend this northern frontier of their Empire; firstly with their network of forts on the Stanegates (roads), and later with the construction of the permanent stone - built Hadrian's Wall with its sophisticated combination of forts, milecastles and turrets. Alongside this magnificent piece of Roman engineering is the I Hadrian's Wall National Trail which has already become a classic long distance walk spanning the 83 miles from coast to coast.
King Canute (1016-1035), the Danish King who took over the English throne on the death of Athelred, also played a significant role in Haltwhistle's history when he gave Northumbria to Siward the Dane, probably in about 1023, as a marriage dowry.
There has been a recognised market here since King John licensed it in 1207. The settlement was razed by Robert the Bruce and was administered by the Scots for many years. Indeed, the 13th century Church of the Holy Cross is believed to have been built to a Scottish design and originally came under the jurisdiction of the Abbott of Arbroath.
Its most turbulent period was during the 16th and 17th centuries when Border families raided to and fro across what at the time were known as the "Debateable Lands" stealing cattle and engaging in bloody family feuds.
The minerals found in the North Pennines to the South of Haltwhistle by the Romans were `rediscovered' during the Industrial Revolution when a new prosperity brought a network of railways to the North Pennines with Haltwhistle a key junction within the network linking to both Carlisle & Newcastle. With new industry came a growing population, new skills and new wealth to the community.
The town continues to be the centre of activity for the Historic Parishes. It has retained many of the historical features and boasts a well cared for, traditional high street with a range of family run businesses to suit all tastes. It prides itself on good service, quality goods and value for money.
|
