Black Middens Bastle House
A remarkably preserved 16th-century fortified farmhouse in remote Northumberland, offering a tangible link to the Border Reiver era.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
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Best Time
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Black Middens Bastle House
Best Time
Best views and access
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A remarkably preserved 16th-century fortified farmhouse in remote Northumberland, offering a tangible link to the Border Reiver era.
"Stunning desolate location, well worth a visit for a glimpse into history."
🚗 Easy Access Carpark
A small carpark is conveniently located nearby, making access straightforward for this remote site.
🚶♀️ Explore the Trail
Combine your visit with the Tarset Bastle Trail for a longer walk and more historical insights.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
16th Century Bastle House
Northumberland
A remarkably preserved fortified farmhouse, offering a tangible link to the turbulent Border Reiver era.
Tarset Bastle Trail
Surrounding area
Combine your visit with a scenic walk, exploring other historical bastles and enjoying the desolate beauty of Northumberland.
Stunning Northumberland Views
Approach roads and surrounding landscape
The journey to Black Middens is as rewarding as the destination, with breathtaking vistas of the rugged countryside.
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Planning Your Visit
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Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚗 Easy Access Carpark
A small carpark is conveniently located nearby, making access straightforward for this remote site.
🚶♀️ Explore the Trail
Combine your visit with the Tarset Bastle Trail for a longer walk and more historical insights.
📸 Capture the Scenery
The drive and the location offer stunning photographic opportunities of the desolate landscape.
🗺️ Remote Location
Be prepared for a remote location; it's 'off the beaten track' but well worth the journey.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 Easy Access Carpark
A small carpark is conveniently located nearby, making access straightforward for this remote site.
🚶♀️ Explore the Trail
Combine your visit with the Tarset Bastle Trail for a longer walk and more historical insights.
📸 Capture the Scenery
The drive and the location offer stunning photographic opportunities of the desolate landscape.
🗺️ Remote Location
Be prepared for a remote location; it's 'off the beaten track' but well worth the journey.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise Black Middens Bastle House for its stunning, desolate location and its value as a historical site offering a glimpse into the past. The easy access from a nearby carpark and the scenic drive are frequently mentioned positives, making it a worthwhile stop for those exploring Northumberland. Some note its remoteness, which adds to its charm but means amenities are scarce.
"Stunning desolate location, easy access from small carpark close by. Well worth a visit."
Simon Roberts
"Great little find in Northumberland. The drive to it is interesting, with stunning views.. This one is 'off the beaten track' .."
B Moffat
"Great to see how life was during the border reiver times, fab walk as well along the "tarset bastle trail""
Ian Baird
What People Like
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Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Black Middens Bastle House is located in a remote area of Northumberland. Access is typically via car, with a small carpark available nearby. The drive itself is noted for its stunning views. +1
While it's described as 'off the beaten track,' there is a carpark that makes finding it manageable. It's a 'great little find' for those who enjoy exploring less-visited historical sites.
Traveling by car is the most practical method. The journey offers scenic Northumberland landscapes, making the drive part of the experience.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Black Middens Bastle House is an outdoor historical site, and typically does not require tickets for entry. It's a free-to-access historical monument.
As an open-air historical site, there are no set opening hours. Visitors can typically access the exterior and grounds during daylight hours.
No, there is generally no admission fee to visit Black Middens Bastle House. It's a historical site that can be explored freely.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
You can explore a well-preserved 16th-century fortified farmhouse, offering a glimpse into life during the Border Reiver times. It's a 'fine example' of historical architecture.
Access from the carpark is easy, but if you choose to explore the Tarset Bastle Trail, there will be more walking involved.
It's a significant example of a 16th-century bastle house, built for defense during the turbulent Border Reiver period.
Yes, the location and the bastle house itself offer excellent photographic opportunities, especially with the surrounding desolate beauty.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Given its remote location, there are no immediate food options. It's advisable to bring your own snacks and drinks for your visit.
While there are no designated picnic areas, visitors often enjoy picnics amidst the scenic surroundings. Please ensure you take all litter with you.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Practical tips for families include bringing plenty of snacks and drinks, as facilities are non-existent. Ensure children understand the importance of respecting historical sites and staying within safe areas. The easy access from the carpark makes it manageable for younger children, and the surrounding landscape provides ample space for exploration.
🚶♀️ Hikers and Nature Lovers
Consider incorporating the Tarset Bastle Trail into your visit for a more extensive hike. This allows you to explore the historical context of the region more deeply while enjoying the tranquil, natural surroundings. It’s an ideal destination for a peaceful day out, away from the usual tourist crowds.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The History of Bastle Houses
Visiting Black Middens provides a tangible connection to this turbulent past. You can imagine the lives of the families who sought refuge within its sturdy walls, a stark contrast to the peaceful, desolate beauty of the landscape today. The preservation of the site allows visitors to appreciate the ingenuity and resilience of people living in such challenging conditions. It's a fascinating glimpse into a period of history often overlooked.
Exploring the Tarset Bastle Trail
The trail itself winds through the beautiful Northumberland countryside, providing stunning views and a sense of the remoteness that characterized life here centuries ago. It’s an opportunity to combine historical discovery with outdoor activity. Remember to wear appropriate footwear and be prepared for varying weather conditions, as is typical for this part of the country.
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