'Redesdale' lies in the district of
Tynedale, in the eastern portion of the county of
Northumberland, in northeast
England. This area contains the valley of the
River Rede, a tributary of the
North Tyne River. Redesdale includes the settlements of
Elsdon,
Otterburn,
Rochester,
Byrness and
Carter Bar.
Historically this valley has served as an important route into
Scotland. This area has seen conflict since the time of the
Roman Empire. In 1388 Otterburn was the site of
a historic battle between the armies of England and Scotland, largely fought by moonlight. During the
Middle Ages, Elsdon was the economic center of the area, and served as the
market town and gathering place for the local clans. In modern times the village of Otterburn now holds that distinction. The
A68 road follows the Rede valley on its way north into Scotland.
A portion of Redesdale to the west and north of Otterburn now forms part of
Northumberland National Park and includes the
Redesdale Forest, the northernmost part of
Kielder Forest.
See also
★
Baron Redesdale
External links
★
Northumberland National Park