heritage of brampton...
Brampton Old Church
This tiny church on the banks of the River Irthing overlooks an ancient crossing point to Irthington. The church itself lies within the ramparts of a Roman fort - one of a series along the Stanegate and is partly built of Roman stone. St Ninian supposedly preached here in the 4th century. Only the chancel remains, as the nave and tower were demolished in 1788 to build a new parish church in the town centre. Many trades are recorded on the gravestones - shoemakers, butchers, glovers, even a violin maker! The church is accessed down a lane from the A6071 Brampton to Longtown Road.
St Martin's Church
19th century Pre-Raphaelite church commissioned by George Howard, the 9th Earl of Carlisle and a patron of the arts. The architect was Philip Webb who employed Edward Burne-Jones to design a series of magnificent stained glass windows, which were installed by William Morris. The Pre-Raphaelites were noted for their strong use of colour and detailing, with emphasis on natural and medieval themes.
Lanercost Priory and Church
The priory was founded by Augustinian canons in 1169 and largely built of stone from Hadrian's Wall, but suffered from several devastating Scottish attacks. Edward I stayed here for five months (1306-07) during his campaign against the Scots - at great cost to the priory. After the monasteries were dissolved in 1536, some buildings were converted into a private residence, but the nave was retained to become the parish church (open during daylight hours). The ruins are open 10.00-6.00 (April-October). Admission charge.
Banks Turret and Pike Hill Signal Tower
Banks Turret and Pike Hill Signal Tower are close together. The turret is one of several along the line of the Wall, with an on-site information panel. Pike Hill Signal Tower was built as a lookout for forts along the Stanegate and later incorporated into the line of Hadrian's Wall.
Birdoswald Roman Fort and Visitor Centre
Birdoswald Fort, on its lonely windswept plateau, commands stunning views over the Irthing valley to the Lake District Fells. Recent excavations have uncovered a drill hall, granary and three of the gateways to the fort. A well-preserved section of the Wall leads from the fort to Willowford Bridge. More of Birdoswald's 2000-year history can be discovered in the Visitor Centre. Tearoom and picnic areas. Admission charge.
Poltross Burn Milecastle
One of the best-preserved milecastles along Hadrian's Wall. The site was last occupied in the 4th century, and bears traces of soldiers' quarters and cooking ovens.
Naworth Castle
Stronghold of the Dacre family from 1335, before passing to Lord William Howard though marriage. Since 1660, Naworth has been the home of the Earls of Carlisle. The castle is generally not open to the public (except during special events) but can be easily viewed from a public road which passes through the estate.
St Kentigern's Church, Irthington
One of eight churches in the Carlisle diocese dedicated to St Kentigern. The oldest parts are the chancel and the nave arcades (of Norman construction) with Victorian additions. A stained glass window in the church is dedicated to Robert Bowman who died in 1823 at the grand age of 119. The church is normally kept locked, but a key can be obtained by enquiring at the Post Office in Irthington.
