Website Design and Content © Friends of Historic Dilston 2007-2011 unless otherwise stated

www.friendsofhistoricdilston.org

Welcome to the Friends’ Homepage

Welcome!

Our association was launched on 24 February 2007 to promote awareness of Dilston Castle and Chapel and support the North Pennines Heritage Trust (the owners of the two scheduled ancient monuments) in the running of events at Historic Dilston and in the maintenance of site. The beautiful setting, the picturesque backdrop of the castle and the fine acoustics of the chapel make the site ideal for a range of activities and events. In recent years these have included a flower festival, two open-air dramas, several historical re-enactments, occasional painting and drawing days for art clubs, storytelling, poetry readings and music in the chapel.

Guided Tours and Talks for Visiting Groups

The Friends of Historic Dilston run Guided Tours and/or Talks for Local History Societies and other visiting organisations whose members would like to know more about the history of Dilston and the story of the Radcliffes, Earls of Derwentwater. Archaeological Tours can also be arranged.

The Historic Dilston Heritage Project and Future Aims

Dilston Castle and Chapel opened to the public in June 2003, having been restored by the North Pennines Heritage Trust with grants from the Heritage Lottery Fund and English Heritage. A second grant award from HLF, together with funding from other sources, enabled a further programme of work to take place, 2008-9, resulting in the whole of this ancient site being taken into care and long-lost archaeological features brought into the public domain. Visitors to Dilston Castle and Chapel can now enjoy a short walk down the wooded escarpment to the 17th-century Lord’s Bridge, which spans the Devil’s Water, nearby. Dilston – originally Divelston/Dyvelston – takes its name from the Devil’s Water, a tributary of the River Tyne.

The Friends played a major role in the Historic Dilston Heritage Project, assisting in archaeological work, writing and designing promotional leaflets, interpretation panels and a Historic Dilston Guide Book. Future aims of the Friends include the restoration of the 17th-century riverside gardens beside the Devil’s Water and establishing a heritage centre on site to house the large collection of relics and artefacts that are currently held.

For bookings or further information please contact Mary Rose Ridley: on 01661 844157, or use our Contact Details.

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