Pele Towers – A Guide

Nestled between Alnwick and Bamburgh on the Northumberland coast, Brunton House and Cottages offer a serene retreat amidst a landscape steeped in history. One of the region’s most intriguing historical features is the prevalence of Pele towers, medieval structures that speak to Northumberland’s tumultuous past.​

The Legacy of Pele Towers in Northumberland

Between the 14th and 16th centuries, the Anglo-Scottish borderlands were rife with conflict and lawlessness, largely due to the notorious Border Reivers—raiders who plundered the area irrespective of nationality. In response, landowners constructed Pele towers: fortified keeps designed as defensive refuges during these turbulent times. Typically, these towers were square or rectangular, standing several stories high with robust stone walls and minimal windows to withstand sieges. They often featured barrel-vaulted basements and parapet walks, emphasizing their military purpose.​

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Preston Tower: A Glimpse into the Past

For guests at Brunton House and Cottages eager to explore a well-preserved example of a Pele tower, Preston Tower stands as a remarkable testament to this era. Located in Chathill, Northumberland, Preston Tower was constructed between 1392 and 1399—a period marked by frequent skirmishes between England and Scotland. Sir Guiscard Harbottle, one of its notable owners, was slain at the Battle of Flodden in 1513, underscoring the tower’s connection to significant historical events.​

Today, Preston Tower is open to the public, allowing visitors to immerse themselves in its storied past. The ground floor houses the guard room and prison, while the first floor features a bedroom and living area furnished to reflect 14th-century life. The second floor, known as the Flodden Room, provides insights into the Battle of Flodden and the broader history of the Border conflicts. A distinctive feature of the tower is its clock with two faces and an hourly chime audible from afar, with the mechanism on display for visitors. Sir Nikolaus Pevsner, the renowned architectural historian, praised Preston Tower as “amongst the most spectacular pieces of medieval masonry in England.”​

Image sourced from: https://www.historichouses.org/house/preston-tower/visit/

Embleton Vicarage’s Pele Tower: A Hidden Gem

Closer to Brunton House, the village of Embleton is home to a vicarage that also boasts a Pele tower. While not open to the public, this structure exemplifies how such fortifications were integrated into various buildings, including religious establishments, to protect inhabitants during periods of unrest. The presence of a Pele tower within a vicarage highlights the pervasive need for security across all facets of society in medieval Northumberland.​

Experience History from the Comfort of Brunton House and Cottages

Staying at Brunton House and Cottages places you in the heart of this historically rich landscape. Our accommodations, ranging from the expansive Brunton House, which sleeps up to 16 guests, to intimate cottages like Brunton Burn and Garden Cottage, offer luxurious comfort amidst the echoes of the past. Set on an organic farm within the 2,500-acre Fallodon Estate, our properties are adjacent to an old water mill, overlooking a burn and lake, with views extending towards the sea and Beadnell Bay.​

Each residence has been meticulously restored and graded 5* Gold by Visit England, ensuring a stay that harmoniously blends historical charm with modern luxury. Whether you’re exploring the rugged coastline, delving into the region’s past, or simply relaxing in the tranquil surroundings, Brunton House and Cottages provide an ideal base for your Northumbrian adventure.​

Plan Your Visit

Embark on a journey through time by visiting Preston Tower and immersing yourself in the rich tapestry of Northumberland’s history. After a day of exploration, return to the comfort and elegance of Brunton House and Cottages, where the past and present coalesce to create an unforgettable experience.​