A picturesque village brimming with intricate history and stunning attractions could be the perfect UK retreat for travellers.

The village boasts a large teardrop-shaped green that gently descends from north to south, housing numerous historical sites within its boundaries. The hamlet's charming honey-hued stone buildings encircle the village green, creating an unparalleled landscape. The village itself forms a natural amphitheatre, much to the delight of travellerseager to explore quaint hamlets, particularly in Northumbria. Labelled 'the perfect Northumbrian village' by Northumberland National Park, Elsdon is a must-see for those seeking a break in the UK's idyllic countryside. The village's name originates from Old English and translates to 'Elli's valley'.

Situated approximately three miles east of Otterburn and ten miles south-west of Rothbury, Elsdon is steeped in heritage and ancient history. The preserved remains of a castle, a historically significant ancient parish church, and a tower house make it a village rich in sights for the keen explorer. Elsdon once served as the capital of Redesdale and showcases one of the region's most impressive Motte and Bailey Castle remnants alongside an almost pristine Pele Tower - a fortified house typical of the borderlands - which is now a private residence.

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While Elsdon may seem a bit off the beaten track today, it wasn't always so. In medieval times, it held a key position on the main overland route connecting Newcastle and Edinburgh. The homes and buildings that surround the unique teardrop-shaped village green make it the largest settlement within the boundaries of Northumberland National Park. Elsdon is a fantastic base for numerous trips into the surrounding countryside, making it a perfect getaway for walkers.

Elsdon Castle, a fortress within the village, holds scheduled monument status. However, as no significant castle remains are visible at ground level, it's been informally renamed the Mote Hills and is remarkably well-preserved. In fact, it's considered one of the best surviving examples of a medieval motte and bailey castle in Northumberland.

Robert de Umfraville, also known as "Robert with the Beard", began his control of Redesdale by building Elsdon Castle around 1080, shortly after the Norman Conquest. Impressive earthworks remain from the motte and bailey stronghold, marking the village's entrance into recorded history.

Referred to as a "vicar's pele", or fortified tower built to accommodate the vicar, Elsdon Tower is a medieval tower house that was converted into a Rectory and now enjoys Grade I listed status. The building was reconstructed during the 1500s and survives in its current form as Elsdon Tower.

Historical records first mention the property being inhabited by the Rector of Elsdon in 1415. Throughout the 17th century, the tower was reduced to three storeys crowned with a steeply pitched roof positioned above battlemented parapets. The early 1800s witnessed Archdeacon Singleton adding an entrance porch together with a two-storey, double-bay house extension, reports Chronicle Live.

Adjacent to this fortified vicarage sits Elsdon's church, which is said to have housed St. Cuthbert's remains and represents one of numerous churches dedicated to his memory - possibly even one of the better-known locations. The structure possesses substantial historical importance and surpasses the usual dimensions of most Northumbrian churches, being considerably larger.

During 19th-century restoration work, labourers discovered multiple skeletons that appeared to have been interred in a mass burial ground, indicating these remains were laid to rest at Elsdon after the Battle of Otterburn. Modern-day Elsdon caters well for visitors, boasting a variety of food and drink establishments.

The local pub, Bird in Bush, serves meals and drinks and also provides accommodation. The Elsdon Tea Room doubles as a visitor information point, while The Coach House, another tea room, subtly nods to its coaching past.