The village of Blanchland has always been popular among buyers at the top end of the property market. Aranda Garrard finds out more. FEW could disagree that Blanchland is one of the most picturesque villages in England in which to reside.
Steeped in history, there are 11 ancient monuments, more than 40 Listed buildings, and the sleepy hamlet is also a conservation area. The village has featured in several film and TV sets, from Jude the Obscure to Catherine Cookson’s Gambling Man and A Dinner of Herbs, as well as The Badger series. However, it is loved not only for its history, but also for its beauty. It is recognised as a North Pennines Area of Outstanding Beauty. With acres of surrounding woodland and open moors, this unspoilt setting is a haven for wildlife, while also being a great place to explore on foot. The village is brimming with architectural features, from its magnificent Abbey to its characterful 18th Century stone homes, some of which are now let as holiday cottages. The village’s pub was formerly part of the Abbey of Blanchland. The Lord Crewe Arms was built as a Monastery in the 12th Century and is reputed to be haunted by the ghost of Dorothy Forster, niece to the Bishop of Durham and Lady Crewe, and sister to Tom Forster who plotted the 1715 Jacobite Rebellion. Blanchland’s Premonstratensian Monastery was founded by monks who wore white habits, hence the ‘Blanch’ in the name. The local teashop is also named after the White Monks. Built around a village square, Blanchland hasn’t changed much in its 250-year history. There is a shop, gallery stocking arts and crafts, and a pub. The historic gatehouse houses the local post office branch. Nearby places to visit include Pow Hill Country Park which is three miles away and overlooks the Derwent Reservoir. It is an ideal spot for sailing and fishing. Famous people said to have visited the village and drawn inspiration from it include John Wesley in 1747, and WH Auden in 1930. Sarah Armstrong, branch manager at Pattinson’s Consett branch, said: “Blanchland is a lovely rural area which lies peacefully among rolling countryside. The village is particularly popular among buyers at the top end of the market, with period properties a real attraction. “Available properties in the area are few and far between, the result being a strong sense of community which buyers are very keen to tap into. “The village lies close to Hexham, Consett and the main commuter routes. The standard of schools in the area is high and the rolling countryside gives Blanchland a very peaceful feel. “With the village sitting close to the shores of Derwent Reservoir, the area is ideal for fishing and leisure activities.” | 
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