 The Rose and Thistle Inn is located on what was once a very important drovers road linking England to Scotland. Despite its current status as a peaceful and tranquil place, being located near the border of England and Scotland made Alwinton a pretty unstable place!
During this time of border unrest (from about the 13th - 17th centuries), these lands were fought over and raided by families of outlaws known as the Border Reivers from both sides of the border.
Perhaps it was for this reason that the great adventure writer, Sir Walter Scott Chose to stay at the Rose and Thistle Inn while he penned his masterpiece, Rob Roy (1817). Certainly there are many scenes in the book set in genuine Northumbrian locations.
Other lawless types chose remote Coquetdale as a location for illicit whisky stills. The cold, clear waters of the springs gushing from the hillside cooling the stills to produce duty free spirits for distribution to both sides of the border. The remains of several of these romantic sites still exist today, one of the most famous being Kitty's Walls still.
Further up the valley, following the spectacular windings of the River Coquet, we come to the remains of a Roman settlement at Chew Green, thought to date between 43 - 410 AD.
And of course, no mention of the Roman occupation of England can go without a mention of Hadrian's Wall. Located about an hours drive south, the World heritage Site of Hadrian's Wall is one of Northumberland's greatest historical treasures and well worth a day trip - Or you may intend passing it on walk or cycle trip!
 Northumberland as a county is also home to some of the best examples of the enigmatic prehistoric rock art known as Cup and Ring marks.
A Site within easy travelling distance include Lordenshaws on the Simonside Hills above Rothbury. Lordenshaws is also home to prehistoric burial cairns and a hill fort.
The county of Northumberland is home to more castles and fortified houses than any other English county - A visible testament in these peaceful times that the area wasn't always so tranquil!
 Amongst the many worthy of note include those at Alnwick, home to the Duke & Duchess of Northumberland which has been referred to as The Windsor of the North. The spectacular cliff top ruins of Dunstanburgh. Bamburgh - complete with dragon legend and king Arthur connections. And romantic Lindisfarne - located on Holy Island, the birthplace of Northern Christianity.
Northumberland is a region the past is evident at almost every turn. The often turbulent history of the place has shaped the landscape and rich character of the people. For this reason it is a unique place - we look forward to sharing some of it's secrets with you!
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