Redesdale facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Redesdale |
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 Location in Northumberland
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| Location | Northumberland, England, UK |
| OS grid | NY882927 |
| Coordinates | 55°13′44″N 2°11′10″W / 55.229°N 2.186°W |
Redesdale is a beautiful valley in the western part of Northumberland, a county in northeast England. It's known for its stunning natural scenery and its long, interesting history. The valley follows the path of the River Rede, which is a smaller river that flows into the River North Tyne.
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Exploring Redesdale's Landscape
This lovely valley is home to several small communities. These include Elsdon, Otterburn, Rochester, Byrness, and Carter Bar.
A large part of Redesdale is now protected. The western and northern areas of the valley are part of Northumberland National Park. This park helps protect the natural beauty and wildlife of the region. Redesdale also includes the Redesdale Forest, which is the most northern part of the huge Kielder Forest.
A Look at Redesdale's Past
Redesdale has always been an important pathway into Scotland. Because of its location, the area has seen many conflicts. These fights have happened since the time of the Roman Empire, thousands of years ago.
After the Norman Conquest in 1066, a powerful Norman family called Umfraville took control of the lands here. They became the first important rulers, known as the Lords of Redesdale.
Famous Battles in Redesdale
In 1388, a very important battle took place in Otterburn. This was the Battle of Otterburn, fought between armies from England and Scotland. It was mostly fought at night under the moonlight.
Later, in 1575, another big fight happened nearby. This was the Raid of the Redeswire. It was the last major battle between the Kingdom of England and the Kingdom of Scotland.
Life in Redesdale Long Ago
During the Middle Ages, the village of Elsdon was the main center of Redesdale. It was the place where people bought and sold goods at the market town. It was also where local families, known as "graynes" (part of the Border Reivers), would gather. These families lived along the Anglo-Scottish Border.
Today, the village of Otterburn is the main hub of the area. The A68 road is an important route that follows the Rede valley. It continues north from Redesdale into Scotland.
In the 1800s, the British crown created a special title called Baron Redesdale. This title was given to important people connected to the area.
