#middleham

On this day 551 years ago, the wedding of George Duke of Clarence and Isabel Neville took place in Calais. In their honour, I’ll share an interesting recent discovery I’ve encountered during my research.

Ashdowne-Hill (RIP) notes this special pendant appearing as worn by Isabel Neville as illustrated in the Rous Roll and believes it could have been hers (I know he had a dubious reputation as a historian but he was fairly objective where it did not concern Richard III). However, this significant heirloom was found on site at Middleham, so it may have swapped hands from Isabel to her mother or sister at some point. If the latter recipient, then it could mean that post- 1472 there may have been some reconciliation between the Gloucesters and the Clarences (or at least between the two sisters), as it could have been passed in Isabel’s testamentary will to Anne.

It was famously called the Middleham Jewel and since its discovery in 1985, it has attracted some interest because of its iconic depiction of female sainthood and the nativity scene. Not to mention the ominous two words wrought on it: ‘Tetragrammation’ and ‘Ananizapta’, and the significance of its massive sapphire:

Middleham, North Yorkshire, July 2007,  England

🌿 Middleham to East Witton Including Jervaulx Park

🌄 A brand-new North Yorkshire walk is now live on my website! This circular route begins in the historic market town of Middleham and explores some of Wensleydale’s most scenic countryside. It follows sections of the Six Dales Trail through riverside woodland and rolling farmland, heading out to the village of East Witton via Jervaulx Park. Along the way, you’ll pass landmarks such as Middleham Castle, William’s Hill motte and bailey, the Cover Bridge Inn, and the ruins of Jervaulx Abbey. The walk ends with a peaceful return through meadows and ancient field paths beside the River Cover.

🧭 The route is 12 miles long and takes roughly 5½ hours to complete. Total ascent is around 337 metres. Full step-by-step directions, route statistics, and parking advice are available on the walk page. You’ll also find links to Ordnance Survey and Outdooractive maps, with tools to print the route, download it to your device, or export it as a GPX file.

🏞️ Middleham is a remarkable town with a rich past. Set in the heart of Wensleydale, where the River Cover joins the River Ure, it has roots going back to Roman times and features prominently in the Domesday Book. Middleham Castle was once home to Richard III, who spent much of his youth there. The town grew into a thriving mediaeval market centre and remains lively today, known especially for its racing stables and Georgian charm. A visit here offers a deep sense of history, from ancient castles and chapels to the legacy of horse training that continues to shape the community.

📸 This North Yorkshire walk is full of memorable highlights. You’ll set off from Middleham’s cobbled market square, where racehorses regularly clip-clop their way to the gallops. You’ll pass the dramatic ruins of Middleham Castle and enjoy sweeping views from the earlier Norman earthworks at William’s Hill. Follow riverside trails beside the Cover and the Ure, call in at the Cover Bridge Inn, and stroll through the peaceful grounds of Jervaulx Park. A glimpse of Jervaulx Abbey, the tranquillity of East Witton, and the scenic crossing of Hullo Bridge make this route a varied and rewarding day out.

🚶‍♂️ If you’re after a blend of history, scenery, and countryside walking, this route from Middleham to East Witton is a brilliant choice. Explore the full walk, view the maps, and plan your day using the tools on my website: