Holystone, Northumberland

Holystone Sunken PathHolystone village is one of the most intriguing and enigmatic settlements in the Northumberland National Park. Built out of the ruins of a medieval nunnery, it is logical to see that institution as the principal influence on the early development of this community.

However, while not denying the important role played by the ecclesiastical institution in the development of the village, certain other elements, notably the proximity of a Roman route and a copious spring, may have had an significant influence on the settlement's early development/initial formation.

The wider area of study adopted is represented by the historic township of Holystone.

This was one of four townships incorporated in the ecclesiastical Chapelry of Holystone, which covered a large area on the south side of the Coquet, extending almost up to the border, and is now combined with the Parish of Alwinton on the north side of the dale.

As well as the village of Holystone itself, the township embraced the ancient communities of Harbottle and Woodhall to the north, Dues Hill and Woodhouses to the south, and Lanternside, North and South Yardhope to the west, all of which may once have constituted 'territorial townships' in their own right during the medieval and early modern periods.