Mitford
From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia
Mitford is a village in the borough of Castle Morpeth in the Wansbeck parliamentary constituency, Northumberland, approximately 2 miles west of Morpeth.
Mitford Castle was built in the 11th century by William Bertram but by 1323 was no longer used. Today it is in picturesque ruins.
The Mitford family held the Manor from Norman times. The ruins of their Manor House stand on the eastern side of the River Wansbeck. In about 1823 they abandoned the old Manor House for a new mansion house, Mitford Hall, which was desinged by the famous Northern architect, John Dobson, and which was built on the opposite bank of the river and surrounded by woodland and a small deer park.
The ancient church of St Mary Magdalene was rebuilt in 1875, but has preserved its Norman south arcade and 13th century chancel.
Mitford was once a far greater market place for local people. Morpeth's market soon grew in prominence and Mitford fell from grace. However, even today's loyal Mitfordians recant the old rhyme: "Mitforde was Mitforde when Morpeth was none, and Mitforde shall be Mitforde when Morpeth is gone".
 This Northumberland location article is a stub. You can help Wikipedia by expanding it. |
