Discover Ponteland from several distinct perspectives: a river crossed by a stone arch bridge, historic buildings, and swimming, classes and climbing. When planning your visit, decide whether to focus on architectural history, active pursuits or a specific event.

River, Bridge and a Medieval Pele Tower

The River Pont flows through Ponteland, crossed by a two-arched stone bridge. Vicar’s Pele, a medieval pele tower in the centre of Ponteland, is built of irregular rubble stone and repaired with brick. The roofless building is three storeys high. The river and bridge provide a scenic focal point; Vicar’s Pele makes a different architectural statement through its central location, materials and form.

Church and Architectural History

St Mary the Virgin is open daily; visitors can drop in, light a candle, pray or enjoy the peace and quiet. Check the visiting arrangements before your trip. The lower parts of the tower date from Norman times; the church also has a notable west doorway. The spacious chancel dates from the 13th century, and the chancel arch features carvings of Adam and Eve from the same period. Here, an older section of the tower can be compared with the chancel and 13th-century carvings; the west doorway adds another striking architectural detail.

Kirkley Hall was originally a country house and is now an agricultural college. The building dates from 1764; after a fire, it was largely rebuilt between 1927 and 1930. The gap between the construction date and the rebuilding helps distinguish the building’s origins from the later interruption in its history.

The cellar of a tower known as Ponteland Castle is located in the Blackbird Inn. The tower dates from the 14th century and was plundered by the Scots in 1388. This places a broad historical period alongside a specifically dated event.

Sport, Climbing and a New Year’s Day Event

Ponteland Leisure Centre offers a modern gym, a swimming pool, fitness classes and sports facilities for all ages. It also has a Clip ’n’ Climb climbing arena, suitable for individual climbers as well as groups of families and friends. There are several ways to stay active: training, swimming and classes, alongside a climbing activity for individuals and groups alike.

Ponteland Golf Club also welcomes occasional visitors. If golf is part of your trip, check the specific visitor arrangements in advance. The annual wheelbarrow race takes place on New Year’s Day and is considered a tradition that probably dates back to the 14th century. If you would like to plan your trip around this date, check the event details in advance. Its fixed place on the calendar makes the New Year period a different reason to visit from a focus on architectural history or sport.

Discover more destinations:Eglingham, Wooler, Corbridge, Guyzance, Elsdon, Matfen, Berwick-Upon-Tweed, Longhorsley

For the broader travel guide: Northumberland.