Lord of the Fells facts for kids
The Lord of the Fells is a special, old title. It belongs to the Lords of Bowland. People started using this name a long time ago. It described the Lords' wild, hilly lands. These lands are known as the Bowland Fells. They are also called the Forest of Bowland. This area has rocky hills, deep valleys, and peaty moorland. Most of it is in Lancashire, England. A small part is in North Yorkshire.
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What is the Lord of the Fells?
The title "Lord of the Fells" is a traditional name. It describes the ruler of the rugged, high lands. These lands are the Forest of Bowland. This area is known for its tough, rocky hills. It also has deep valleys and wet, peaty moorland.
How the Lordship Began
The Lordship of the Forest of Bowland was created a long time ago. King William Rufus established it after 1086. It might have been a reward for Roger de Poitou. He was the first Lord of Bowland. This reward was for his help in defeating the Scottish army in 1091–1092.
The Honor of Clitheroe
The Forest and Liberty of Bowland became very important. It joined with other lands like Blackburnshire. These areas together formed something called the Honor of Clitheroe. This was a large and powerful estate.
Royal Connections of the Title
The title "Lord of the Fells" has links to royalty. It is like other special titles. For example, the Lord of the Isles and the Lord of Mann also have royal ties.
The Duchy of Lancaster
After 1351, the Lordship of Bowland was managed by the Duchy of Lancaster. The Duke of Lancaster was the main ruler. From 1399, the King or Queen of England became the Duke. This meant they were the top lord over Bowland. They were called the Lord King of Bowland.
The Current Lord of the Fells
The current Lord of Bowland is the 16th person to hold the title. He took on the name "Lord of the Fells" on March 11, 2011.
