Chillingham, Northumberland facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Chillingham |
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 Chillingham Cattle grazing |
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 Chillingham
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| Population | 50 (2001 census) |
| OS grid reference | NU060259 |
| Unitary authority | |
| Ceremonial county | |
| Region | |
| Country | England |
| Sovereign state | United Kingdom |
| Post town | ALNWICK |
| Postcode district | NE66 |
| Dialling code | 01668 |
| Police | Northumbria |
| Fire | Northumberland |
| Ambulance | North East |
| EU Parliament | North East England |
| UK Parliament |
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Chillingham is a small village located in Northumberland, England. It's about 6 kilometers (or 3.7 miles) east of Wooler. In 2011, fewer than 100 people lived there.
Chillingham is most famous for two things: its historic castle, which many say is haunted, and the unique Chillingham Cattle. These are a special herd of wild cattle. They have lived in an enclosed area since the Middle Ages. For at least 300 years, they have been kept separate from other cattle.
The village also has a building called Hebborn bastle house. This was a type of fortified house. It was built to protect people from raids long ago.
A ship called HMS Chillingham was named after this village. It was a type of ship called a Ham class minesweeper.
Contents
Discovering Chillingham's History
Chillingham is a place with a rich past. It has been home to unique animals and important people. Let's explore what makes this village special.
The Famous Chillingham Cattle
One of the most amazing things about Chillingham is its wild cattle. This herd has lived in the same park for hundreds of years. There are usually around 90 of these special animals.
They are known for their pure white coats and red ears. These cattle are truly wild. They have never been tamed by humans. Scientists study them to learn about how animals adapt over long periods.
Chillingham Castle: A Haunted History?
Chillingham Castle is a very old and impressive building. It has stood in Chillingham for centuries. The castle is famous for its stories of ghosts and spooky happenings.
Many visitors come to explore its ancient rooms. They hope to catch a glimpse of its legendary spirits. The castle's long history makes it a fascinating place to visit.
Hebborn Bastle House
Near Hepburn Wood, you can find the Hebborn bastle house. A bastle house was a strong, fortified farmhouse. People built them in the 16th and 17th centuries. They offered protection during times of conflict. This shows how people in the past protected themselves.
People Connected to Chillingham
Even though Chillingham is a small village, some notable people have connections to it.
George Thorp was born in Chillingham in 1777. He became an officer in the Royal Navy. George had a very brave but short career. He sadly died at just 19 years old. This happened during a battle in Santa Cruz, Tenerife, in 1797. The famous Admiral Nelson led this battle.
George's father, Robert Thorp, was a priest. He served as the rector (head priest) of the local church. George was baptized there in 1777.
Charles Villiers Stanford: A Musical Tribute
The Irish composer Charles Villiers Stanford was a famous musician. He wrote a song called "Chillingham." This song celebrated the beautiful and peaceful countryside around the village. It shows how the area inspired artists.
John Sandford: From Cricket to Law
John Sandford was born in 1832. He was known for playing cricket. Later in his life, he became a judicial commissioner. This meant he worked as a judge in places like Burma and Mysore.
