The Village of Allendale:
Allendale is a picturesque village in Northumberland, located in the Tyne Valley. It is known for its stunning rural setting, historical charm, and strong community spirit. The village is home to a mix of traditional stone buildings and modern homes, surrounded by beautiful countryside, including the nearby Kielder Forest. Allendale is a peaceful yet vibrant place, offering a great quality of life for its residents, with a range of amenities and activities available.
Shops:
Allendale Stores: A well-loved local convenience store offering groceries, household items, and locally sourced products.
The Allendale Bakery: Known for its fresh bread, cakes, and pastries, this bakery is a favorite among residents and visitors alike.
The Allendale Co-op: A larger shop for general groceries and household essentials.
Emma’s Coffee & Sweetshop: A delightful spot in Allendale, Emma’s Coffee & Sweetshop is a favorite for both locals and visitors. It offers a range of delicious homemade cakes, sandwiches, and an assortment of sweets. Perfect for a relaxing break, whether you’re enjoying a coffee or treating yourself to something sweet. Emma’s also often sells locally made chocolates and confectionery, adding a personal touch to your visit.
Art & Craft Shops: The village has a number of galleries and craft shops, which often feature the work of local artists.
Pubs and Cafes:
The Crown Hotel: A traditional pub serving hearty meals and drinks, known for its warm atmosphere and friendly service.
The Allendale Inn: Another local pub offering a cozy environment for drinks and pub food, often hosting events and gatherings.
The King’s Head: A popular village pub known for its charming setting and selection of ales. The King’s Head is a great spot for a casual meal or a pint after a day out in the countryside.
The Lion: A classic pub with a welcoming atmosphere, serving a variety of drinks and offering pub fare. It’s a great place to meet with friends or enjoy a quiet evening in the heart of Allendale.
Annual Events:
Allendale Tar Barrels at New Year: One of the most unique and exciting events in Allendale is the Allendale Tar Barrels celebration on New Year’s Eve. This annual tradition has been celebrated for centuries and involves the spectacular (and fiery) sight of locals carrying barrels of burning tar through the streets of the village. The event is a huge draw for visitors and is steeped in local history. It’s a lively, thrilling way to ring in the new year, with a fantastic community spirit and a sense of tradition that ties the village to its past.
Allendale Pantomime: The Allendale Pantomime is a beloved community tradition that takes place every year, usually in December. Produced by the Allendale Drama Group, the pantomime is a fun-filled event for the whole family, with colorful costumes, lively performances, and plenty of audience participation. It’s a fantastic opportunity to enjoy local talent and get into the festive spirit.
Schools:
Allendale Primary School: A well-regarded primary school serving the local community, Allendale Primary offers a supportive and inclusive environment for children to learn and grow. The school emphasizes outdoor learning and community involvement.
Haydon Bridge High School: Is are a small, inclusive rural comprehensive school which sits at the heart of the community. There are currently around 430 students in the school from Year 7 to Year 13.
They are extremely proud of our friendly and focused academic atmosphere – one that is rich with diversity and opportunities. Students enjoy their time at Haydon Bridge High School and they value all their individual interests and talents. They encourage resilience in all of our students, building their sense of social responsibility and independence so they leave school as well-rounded individuals with the capacity and desire to lead.
Allendale Surgery.
It serves the local community and offers a range of healthcare services, including general medical consultations, prescriptions, health checks, and other primary care services.
Transport:
Road: Allendale is well-connected by the A686, which links it to nearby towns like Hexham and Newcastle. The drive to Newcastle takes around 40-50 minutes.
Bus: Local buses connect Allendale to surrounding areas, with the 685 bus service providing links to Hexham, where you can access further transport options.
Train: While Allendale doesn’t have its own train station, Hexham Railway Station is the closest, with direct services to Newcastle and other major cities.
Cycling and Walking: The area is known for its scenic cycling and walking routes, making it easy to explore the natural beauty of the Tyne Valley.
The Village of Catton:
Catton is a small, picturesque village located a short distance from Allendale, nestled in the heart of Northumberland. Known for its tranquil surroundings, it offers a peaceful alternative to more bustling areas while still being close to amenities in Allendale. The village is surrounded by beautiful countryside, making it a perfect spot for outdoor enthusiasts who enjoy walking, cycling, or simply relaxing in nature.
Transport: Catton is served by local bus routes connecting it to Allendale and other neighboring villages. Like Allendale, it benefits from being close to Hexham, where residents can access further transport links, including train services.
Community: Catton has a strong sense of community, with local events and gatherings bringing together the residents throughout the year. It’s ideal for those looking for a quieter lifestyle with easy access to nearby towns and villages.