Preston Tower, Medieval defensive tower in Ellingham, England
Preston Tower is a fortified residence with thick stone walls and narrow window openings located in Ellingham. The structure appears smaller than its original size because stones were removed during the 17th century, though the interior rooms are furnished to show medieval-era living conditions.
The tower was built in 1392 as a fortified structure to protect against conflicts between England and Scotland along the borderlands. This defensive function continued until 1603, when the immediate threats diminished and the tower's role in regional defense gradually changed.
The tower represents how people in medieval Northumberland built their homes to stay safe during uncertain times. Walking through it today, you can see how families lived and worked in these stone structures.
You can reach the tower on foot from the parking area near the entrance. Wear comfortable shoes because the interior stairs are steep and narrow, and climbing to the upper levels requires some agility.
The roof of the tower offers views across Northumberland's landscape, revealing why these elevated positions were so important for surveillance. From this vantage point, residents could spot threats coming from a distance and respond to danger early.
The community of curious travelers
AroundUs brings together thousands of curated places, local tips, and hidden gems, enriched daily by 60,000 contributors worldwide.
