Highlight • Historical Site
Morpeth Clock Tower
Hiking
4.5
(9)
The Morpeth Clock Tower is a significant historical site located prominently off the Market Place in Morpeth, Northumberland, in North East England. Standing at approximately 18 meters (60 feet) tall, with its base at an elevation of around 83 meters, this Grade II* listed building and Scheduled Ancient Monument serves as a distinctive feature at the entrance to the town's medieval core. It is renowned for its unique architecture, incorporating recycled medieval stone, and its fascinating history as one of the few secular bell towers in England.
Visitors are particularly drawn to the tower's rich historical narrative and its impressive stature. Its weathered appearance, stemming from the use of stone likely sourced from the dissolved Newminster Abbey, offers a tangible link to Morpeth's past. The story of the "Berwick Bells," originally intended for Berwick-upon-Tweed but gifted to Morpeth, adds a charming local legend that many find captivating. The tower's central location near the Morpeth Town Hall and YMCA buildings also makes it a natural focal point for exploring the town.
Before visiting this Morpeth Clock Tower historical site, it's helpful to know that its central location in Morpeth means it's easily accessible. While the tower itself is a static landmark, it serves as an excellent starting point for exploring the town on foot. The highlight data indicates it is wheelchair accessible, suggesting the immediate surroundings are generally flat and paved. Parking is typically available in nearby town center car parks, making it convenient for those arriving by car.
The Morpeth Clock Tower can be appreciated year-round, with its historical presence enduring in all seasons. Many enjoy visiting during the day to admire its architectural details and learn about its past, while others appreciate the unique experience of hearing its nightly curfew chime at 8:00 PM, a tradition upheld for over 300 years. This landmark is ideal for those interested in historical walks Morpeth offers, providing a glimpse into civic life through the centuries.
The tower's peal of six bells, originally cast in 1706 and later restored, represents the oldest original civic bells in the United Kingdom, a truly remarkable feature. The small cusped head of a 14th-century window on its west side and the Tudor-arched door on the east facade offer intricate details for history enthusiasts. Experiencing the tower's nightly curfew chime provides a unique connection to Morpeth's enduring traditions.
To fully appreciate the Morpeth Clock Tower and its surroundings, consider planning a route that includes nearby attractions like Carlisle Park or the River Wansbeck. Hikers and walkers can discover various trails and routes near Morpeth Clock Tower, exploring the town's charming streets and historical landmarks. With komoot, you can easily plan your visit and find suitable paths that showcase the best of Morpeth's heritage and natural beauty.
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July 1, 2023
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27
hikers
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
3.0
(1)
4
hikers
9.83km
02:37
100m
100m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
21
hikers
11.0km
02:52
80m
80m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
Details
Informations
Elevation 80 m
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Sunday 12 July
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is the historical significance of the Morpeth Clock Tower's bells?
The Morpeth Clock Tower houses a peal of six bells, originally cast in 1706 by Richard Phelps of the Whitechapel Bell Foundry. These bells are particularly notable as they constitute the oldest original peal of civic bells in the United Kingdom. They have a unique backstory, having been presented to Morpeth after Major General Edmund Maine, an MP for Morpeth, was not elected in Berwick-upon-Tweed, leading to the local saying, "Berwick Bells are heard in Morpeth."
Can visitors go inside the Morpeth Clock Tower?
The Morpeth Clock Tower is primarily an external landmark. While it features a Tudor-arched boarded door on its east facade and a small cusped head of a 14th-century window on the west side, public access to the interior is generally not available. Visitors can admire its architecture and historical details from the outside.
What is the best way to experience the Morpeth Clock Tower's nightly curfew?
To experience the Morpeth Clock Tower's nightly curfew, which has been chiming for over 300 years, visitors should aim to be in the Market Place area around 8:00 PM. The central location makes it easy to find a spot to listen to this enduring historical tradition.
Are there any specific walking routes or trails that start or pass by the Morpeth Clock Tower?
While the Clock Tower itself is a static landmark, its central location in the Market Place makes it an excellent starting point for various walks. You can easily plan routes that explore Morpeth's charming streets, head towards Carlisle Park for riverside paths, or follow trails along the River Wansbeck. Many historical walks in Morpeth incorporate the tower as a key point of interest.
What kind of parking is available near the Morpeth Clock Tower, and is it free?
Parking for the Morpeth Clock Tower is typically available in nearby town center car parks. While some short-stay options might be free for a limited time, most car parks in Morpeth town center are paid. It's advisable to check local signage for tariffs and time limits, especially during peak visiting hours.
Is the area around Morpeth Clock Tower suitable for families with young children?
Yes, the area around the Morpeth Clock Tower is generally suitable for families. The tower is located in the pedestrian-friendly Market Place, making it safe for children to walk around. Nearby attractions like Carlisle Park offer playgrounds and open spaces for families to enjoy after visiting the historical site.
Is the Morpeth Clock Tower and its immediate surroundings wheelchair accessible?
Yes, the Morpeth Clock Tower is located in the Market Place, which is generally flat and paved, making the immediate surroundings wheelchair accessible. Visitors using wheelchairs can easily approach and view the tower from various angles. However, the tower itself is not accessible internally.
How long should I allocate to visit the Morpeth Clock Tower?
As the Morpeth Clock Tower is an external landmark, a visit to appreciate its architecture and historical plaques typically takes 15-30 minutes. However, many visitors combine this with exploring the surrounding Market Place, nearby shops, cafes, and other Morpeth attractions, extending their overall visit to the town.
Are dogs allowed in the vicinity of the Morpeth Clock Tower?
Yes, dogs are generally welcome in the outdoor public areas around the Morpeth Clock Tower, provided they are kept on a leash. Many of Morpeth's public spaces and parks, including nearby Carlisle Park, are dog-friendly, making it a good destination for dog walkers.
What other historical sites or landmarks are close to the Morpeth Clock Tower?
The Morpeth Clock Tower is centrally located, making it a great starting point for exploring other historical sites. The Morpeth Chantry (also known as All Saints Chantry), a Grade I listed building housing the Northern Poetry Library and Morpeth Chantry Bagpipe Museum, is just a short walk away. The Morpeth Town Hall and the remains of Morpeth Castle are also within easy reach.
What is the origin of the stone used to construct the Morpeth Clock Tower?
The Morpeth Clock Tower, constructed between 1604 and 1634, was built using recycled medieval stone. It is widely believed that this stone was sourced from the nearby ruins of Newminster Abbey, which was dissolved in 1537. This reuse of older materials gives the tower an appearance that predates its actual construction.