This cache was first placed in 2004 by Travers, then adopted by Northumbria Biker who looked after it until late 2021, when we were privileged to adopt it (thanks Norman) and hopefully keep it active for many more years.
PLEASE NOTE. The access gate to this location is normally blocked during the month of April for lambing.
Some time after 1157, King Henry II ordered a stone castle to be built on this site to defend the area against the Scots. The Scots captured the castle in 1174, but lost it within a year.
From 1500 – 1600, the castle was a key element in the defence of the realm. Army Commander, Thomas Dacre, was charged with governing the area but his schemes simply stirred up an era of Border Reiving instead.
Margaret Tudor, wife of King James IV of Scotland, moved into the castle in 1515. Her baby daughter, born at Harbottle, was to become the grandmother of James I and VI of Scotland.
In 1685, the stone from the castle was plundered by Roger Widdrington to build a new house in the village. Others followed his lead and the castle was reduced to ruin. Further damage was caused by quarrying between 1685 and the 1800s, however the site is now protected.
In the car park, there are several stone carvings showing the history of the site and poems by local schoolchildren.
There is no charge to access the site or for parking.