With its idyllic countryside, Stannington village has much to offer those wishing to get away from it all. Aranda Garrard discovers more. WITH its quaint rural charm and lovely countryside, the village of Stannington is ideal for those who want a more leisurely paced lifestyle.
As well as having an excellent first school and renowned village pub, the Ridley Arms, the area is largely agricultural, while it is still well-placed for those who commute to the larger surrounding towns and cities. For the adventurous, there are scenic woodland walks, some parkland and a scattering of small villages and farmsteads to explore. Stannington village is also not far from the hustle and bustle which can be found on market days in the nearby town of Morpeth. The area, which lies in the postcode district of NE61, also has the A1 on its doorstep, making it an ideal getaway for city professionals who want a rural spot to unwind and relax in after the hectic daily grind in the city. The more therapeutic qualities of the countryside were utilised when a psychiatric hospital was built in the area, St Mary’s Asylum incorporated the latest ideas for treatment. Stannington used to have two hospitals – Stannington Children’s Hospital (formerly known as Philipson’s Colony), was the first children’s TB sanatorium in the country. Both hospitals have today closed. The village’s parish church is dedicated to St Mary. The original church was erected in about 1190, while a new church was built in 1871. Some of the stained glass in the new church was rescued from the earlier building. Today, Stannington attracts largely families with children who are after a rural retreat for their growing clan. Sheila McCubbin, branch manager of Pattinson in Morpeth, which covers Stannington, said: “Stannington is an extremely popular village in the centre of Northumberland, approximately three miles south of the market town of Morpeth. “The semi-rural location ensures peace and quiet, while the village is ideally-placed for the short commute into Newcastle and provincial towns, due to its close proximity to the A1. “This mix means properties are very much in demand with young professionals and families. “The village also boasts an excellent First School and nearby Morpeth provides a wide range of good schools for children of all ages. “As you’d expect of a semi-rural village, there is a strong sense of community, centred on the village’s 18th Century pub, the Ridley Arms. Serving local and national cask ales and traditional food, the establishment is popular with families and has a superb regional reputation. “Stannington is also a short drive to the coast and a number of golf courses, while the Northumberland countryside is a favourite with ramblers and perfect for outdoor pursuits.” |