Tucked away in the North East of England, just an hour's drive from Newcastle, lies the enchanting village of Blanchland. This picturesque settlement, constructed entirely from the stones of a medieval abbey, offers visitors a genuine step back in time.
Described by Visit Northumberland as nestling beneath a 'woodland cloak in a fairytale setting', Blanchland straddles the border of County Durham and Northumberland. It is widely celebrated as one of the most beautiful villages in the region.
A Village Forged from History
The very fabric of Blanchland tells a story centuries old. The village is built from the stones of Blanchland Abbey, founded in 1165 by Walter de Bolbec. This illustrious religious house even hosted a visit from King Edward III.
Today, the abbey's legacy lives on in the village's charming cobbled streets, which are lined with historic buildings. You won't find any modern chain stores here; instead, the streets are home to a delightful collection of traditional cafes, bakeries, and independent shops.
A recent visitor on TripAdvisor captured the abbey's enduring appeal, stating: 'It's right in the centre of the medieval village of Blanchland; no entry costs, just go in and peruse at your leisure. It really is a lovely old abbey.'
Stunning Scenery and Historic Hospitality
Blanchland's beauty isn't confined to its architecture. The village is encircled by fells and sits within easy reach of the North Pennines Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, offering awe-inspiring views and spectacular walking trails.
Popular routes include the gentle Blanchland and Shildon loop (roughly 5.6km) and the more challenging 8km route from Blanchland to Edmundbyers, both providing stunning vistas of the sweeping moorland.
At the heart of the community is the famed Lord Crewe Arms Hotel, one of Britain's most historic inns with origins stretching back to the 12th century. The pub oozes traditional character with its rustic wooden beams, stone walls, and crackling open fires.
One delighted guest remarked: 'We just loved everything about this hotel. The fabulous location, the glorious building, the gorgeous room, the lovely bar, the friendly and helpful staff – brilliant.'
A Tiny Village with Immense Appeal
Despite having a tiny population of just 135 residents according to the 2011 census, Blanchland draws tourists from across the UK. They come to soak up its unique, picturesque atmosphere and immerse themselves in a piece of living history, proving that you don't need modern attractions to create an unforgettable destination.
