With beautiful countryside on the doorstep, great places to explore and a wealth of history. Aranda Garrard finds out what draws homebuyers to Corbridge. THINK exhilarating walks, buildings steeped in history and fascinating little shops, and you’d be halfway to discovering why Corbridge is a magnet for homeowners.
Whether it be a holiday haunt, or somewhere that’s off the beaten track, the town of Corbridge attracts those seeking the peace and tranquillity of the countryside, while also being an ideal spot for those who need to be within easy commuting distance of Newcastle. The town generally appeals to professionals looking for luxury, and those in their retirement with plenty of time to soak up the area’s magnificent surroundings. From its quaint cobbled streets to its attractive antique and gift stores, Corbridge is great for those looking for somewhere more unusual to set up home. And with a wealth of history on the doorstep in the form of the Roman Camp of Corstopitum, the area is of significant interest to tourists too. Aydon Castle, close to Corbridge, stands in beautiful woodland and was used as a backdrop in the film Elizabeth, starring Kate Blanchett and Christopher Eccleston. The area has a wealth of places to eat and drink. Popular haunts include the well-known Valley Indian Restaurant and Corbridge Tandoori Restaurant in the Market Place. The Errington Arms also has a range of good food and ales, along with The Golden Lion and the Blue Bell in Hill Street. There are also plenty of teashops. The Corbridge Larder Coffee Shop, Martha’s Tea Room and Brocks- bushes Farm Shop, just outside Corbridge, are among the many. Corbridge is part of Hadrian’s Wall Country. About 2,000 years ago, the Wall defined the northern frontier of Rome’s Empire. Today, it is a World Heritage Site attracting plenty of visitors from across the globe. Corbridge is also only a short drive away from other places of interest such as Hexham with its magnificent abbey, old gaol and shops a-plenty. There is a pre-school and first school in the centre of Corbridge, along with a bank, dental surgery, health centre and library, while the nearest hospital is Hexham General. There are many antiques shops in Corbridge, including the Corbridge Antique Centre, in Main Street, and Lawrence Stephenson Antiques. Corbridge itself has only around 1,637 homes, most of them detached and owner-occupied, making it a sought-after location for professionals and families with children. Around 30% of people who live in the area are educated to degree level. Property in the postcode district of NE45, of which Corbridge is part of, has averaged around £280,000 over the past few months. |