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Gatehouse to Brayton Park, east of Aspatria -
Photo:
Nigel Monckton
CCL |
A village on the River Ellen
with prehistoric origins, Aspatria (or ‘St
Patrick’s ash tree’) stands on a former Roman road
and was the object of many attacks by Vikings and,
later, marauders from beyond the Scottish border.
It is best known for its 19th century church of St
Kentigern, on the site of a former Norman church.
Within is a carved Viking hogback tombstone and
carved stones pre-dating the Normans. The
churchyard has a holy well reputed to have been
used by St Kentigern himself. Nearby, an ancient
burial site discovered in the 18th century
contained a skeleton, weaponry and gold ornaments. |
