Motte north of Holycross Church

There's a lump of earth north of Holycross Church that might not grab you at first glance, but it's actually the remains of a proper medieval motte - a defensive earthwork that would have had a wooden fortress on top. You're looking at something built nearly a thousand years ago, which is rather remarkable when you consider how many have simply vanished without trace.

What you get here is straightforward archaeology rather than a visitor experience with bells and whistles. The motte itself is accessible and worth a walk around to appreciate the scale of it, particularly if you understand what you're looking at. The earthwork's dimensions tell a story about medieval power and control in Northumberland, though there's not much interpretation on site. Bring your own historical knowledge or do a bit of reading beforehand - you'll get far more from it that way.

History enthusiasts will find this worth the detour from Derecroft, especially if you're combining it with other local sites in the area. Families with younger kids might find it a bit abstract - it's earth and grass rather than walls or towers, so imagination is required. Allow twenty minutes, maybe half an hour if you're photographing or sketching.

If you're staying at Valley View Camping & Glamping nearby, it's certainly doable as a morning outing between larger activities. Free to visit, no facilities on site, and best in drier weather when the ground isn't boggy underfoot.