Between Newcastle Upon Tyne And Carlisle Is A Charming Market Town Nicknamed 'The Centre Of Britain'

History lovers are drawn to England. From the nation's capital of London to the intellectual hub of Oxford, there seem to be countless destinations that are drenched in history, with things to discover around every corner. While these larger cities are quite popular, there are plenty of smaller hidden gems that offer a different way to look at England's past. One such spot is Haltwhistle, a charming, picturesque little town known as the "Centre of Britain."

Haltwhistle, situated near the River South Tyne in Northumberland, reveals its history at every turn. It gets its nickname because it is equidistant from the south and north coasts as well as the east and west coasts, a fact that the town's approximately 3,600 residents embrace with pride. Haltwhistle's history goes back to Roman times, with its official market town status being established in 1207. In the late 16th century, the town saw violent conflict between England and Scotland. Bastles, which are fortified farmhouses, were constructed around the town's market, several of which you can still see today. The town maintains an old-world feel thanks to the stone homes and cozy pubs lining narrow streets, as well as the rolling hills that serve as the backdrop.

Haltwhistle is not only home to several impressive historical structures, but it also places visitors in proximity to some incredible sites in northeast England, from Hadrian's Wall to Northumberland National Park. Plus, it sits about 37 miles west of Newcastle-upon-Tyne and about 22 miles east of Carlisle, making it a great escape from more crowded cities. Northern Railway trains from both cities stop at Haltwhistle Station.

Haltwhistle is located in Northumberland, England's northernmost county, with scenic landscapes along the Scottish border. As a result, the town is rich in historic sites, especially in Market Square, which sits at the heart of the town. Here, you'll find a plaque denoting the town as the "centre of Britain," as well as the bastles that remain from the conflict with Scotland. This is also where you'll find the Centre of Britain Hotel; part of the building dates back to the 15th century when it was originally a pele tower, and extensive renovations have made sure to maintain some of the historic structure. A few feet away is the oldest building in town, the Church of the Holy Cross. This 13th-century church is still active today and features a water stoup that dates back to the sixth century. 

Most people who visit Haltwhistle come to see Hadrian's Wall, a 73-mile-long stone fortification that was constructed during the Roman Empire in AD 122. Haltwhistle is one of the closest towns to the wall, offering visitors a chance to see an incredibly well-preserved piece of history among the breathtaking English countryside. For more active history lovers, try embarking on Hadrian's Wall Path. This 84-mile walking trail runs along the Wall, beginning in Newcastle, an under-the-radar eclectic city with Victorian charm, and ending in Bowness-on-Solway, a coastal village on the Irish Sea. On average, it takes between 6 and 9 days to complete. "Truly inspiring walk," wrote one visitor on Tripadvisor. "A fantastic combination of natural scenery with Roman ruins, including the amazing wall itself."

If your visit to Haltwhistle puts you in the mood for even more historic attractions, you're in luck; nestled in northeast England, this region has some of England's best historical sights. Still, there is plenty to do in and around town beyond exploring these landmarks. Nature lovers have no shortage of outdoor adventures to choose from, such as the Haltwhistle Burn walk. This is an approximately 6-mile circular trail through a scenic area that connects town to Hadrian's Wall. On this popular trail, visitors will pass waterfalls, woodlands and fields, and plenty of wildlife. 

For a longer trail, there's the nearly 23-mile South Tyne Trail that follows the River South Tyne from its source in the moors to Haltwhistle. A popular yet difficult trail for walkers and cyclists, this scenic route takes about two days to complete. Haltwhistle is near Northumberland National Park, an approximately 400-square-mile hub of outdoor adventure. It houses part of Hadrian's Wall and features more than 600 miles of trails that meander past breathtaking waterfalls and ancient Roman structures. The Sill Discovery Centre is a good place to begin exploring all the park offers, and it's located just 4.5 miles from town. 

If all of this outdoor adventure works up an appetite, Haltwhistle has pubs that are sure to replenish your energy. For classic dishes and a cozy atmosphere in a building that dates back to the 12th century, visit The Black Bull on Market Square, the oldest inn in town. If you're in the mood for a home-cooked meal, the family-run Milecastle Inn is "a fantastic traditional pub that makes everyone feel welcome," according to a Tripadvisor review.