Morpeth Clock Tower: A Historic Medieval Landmark in Northumberland
Historic medieval clock tower in Morpeth’s Market Place, famed for its ancient bells and enduring community heritage.
The Morpeth Clock Tower, standing 60 feet tall in the heart of Morpeth’s Market Place, is a Grade II* listed medieval stone structure built between 1604 and 1634. Constructed from recycled stones likely sourced from Newminster Abbey, it features thick walls and a belfry added in 1706 to house six historic bells. The tower has served diverse roles, including a prison and meat store, and remains a cherished symbol of Morpeth’s heritage and community identity.
A brief summary to Morpeth Clock Tower
- 2-4 Oldgate, Morpeth, NE61 1LT, GB
- Visit website
- Duration: 0.5 to 1.5 hours
- Free
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
Local tips
- Visit during Morpeth’s market days, especially Wednesdays, to experience the tower amid vibrant local stalls and lively crowds.
- For quieter, more contemplative photos, come early in the morning when the Market Place is serene and the light is soft.
- Explore nearby Carlisle Park for picturesque views and a peaceful setting to admire the tower from a distance.
- Learn about the unique history of the bells and the local saying ‘Berwick Bells are heard in Morpeth’ to enrich your visit.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Food Options
- Drink Options
- Seating Areas
- Information Boards
Getting There
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Bus
Take the Arriva North East bus services to Morpeth Bus Station, located about 1.5 km from the Clock Tower. From there, it’s a 20-minute walk through the town centre. Bus fares typically range from £3 to £5 one way, with frequent services throughout the day.
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Train
Arrive at Morpeth Railway Station on the East Coast Main Line. The station is approximately 1.8 km from the Clock Tower, a 25-minute walk along accessible pavements. Taxi rides from the station cost around £6 to £8.
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Car
Drive to Morpeth town centre where several public car parks are available, including free disc parking nearby. Parking fees vary but many offer free parking for short stays. Note that Market Place can be busy on market days, so plan accordingly.
Morpeth Clock Tower location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Rain / Wet Weather
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Clear Skies
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Mild Temperatures
Discover more about Morpeth Clock Tower
Origins and Architectural Heritage
The Morpeth Clock Tower is a striking historical monument built over three decades from 1604 to 1634. Its construction utilized medieval stone, probably reclaimed from the nearby dissolved Newminster Abbey, lending the tower an appearance older than its actual age. The tower rises to about 60 feet (18 meters) with impressively thick walls measuring approximately 3 feet 6 inches, reflecting the robust building techniques of the era. Situated prominently off the Market Place, it stands near other notable structures such as the Morpeth Town Hall and the YMCA, anchoring the town’s historic core.The Bells and the Belfry’s Story
In 1706, a belfry was added atop the tower to accommodate a peal of six bells cast by Richard Phelps of the Whitechapel Bell Foundry. These bells carry a unique local story: originally intended for the Parish Church of Berwick-upon-Tweed, they were redirected to Morpeth following a political shift involving Major General Edmund Maine, MP for Morpeth. This history gave rise to the local saying, "Berwick Bells are heard in Morpeth." The bells are among the oldest original town bells in the UK and have chimed a nightly curfew at 8 PM for over three centuries. They were recast and rehung in 1951 to commemorate the Festival of Britain, preserving their sound and tradition.Functional Roles Through the Centuries
Beyond its role as a clock tower, the structure has served various community functions. At one time, it operated as a prison until 1802 and was also used as a meat store. These diverse uses highlight the tower’s integral role in the town’s daily life and governance over centuries. Despite these functional changes, the tower has retained its architectural integrity and continues to be a visible emblem of Morpeth’s history.Symbolism and Preservation Status
The Morpeth Clock Tower is recognized as a Grade II* listed building, marking it as a particularly important historic structure warranting preservation. It is also a Scheduled Ancient Monument, underscoring its archaeological and cultural significance. Its enduring presence in the Market Place makes it a central point of reference and a symbol of Morpeth’s heritage, community identity, and continuity across generations.Visitor Experience and Visual Appeal
While the tower is not open for interior tours, its exterior offers a compelling glimpse into the past. Visitors can admire the medieval stonework and the elegant proportions of the clock and belfry. The tower serves as a focal point for local events and market days, where its historic charm complements the lively atmosphere. Nearby Carlisle Park provides scenic views of the tower, enhancing the visitor experience with a blend of natural and architectural beauty.Community and Cultural Significance
For over 300 years, the clock tower’s bells have marked the curfew, a tradition that connects the present-day town with its historical rhythms. The tower’s role as a custodian of this bellringing tradition continues through local bellringers who maintain the English full-circle style ringing. As a centerpiece of Morpeth’s Market Place, the tower fosters a sense of place and continuity, linking residents and visitors alike to the town’s rich cultural tapestry.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Morpeth Clock Tower
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Historic 17th-century clock tower in Morpeth, crafted from medieval stone, featuring a storied belfry and iconic bells with deep local roots.
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Unmissable attractions to see
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Woodhorn Museum
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Northumbrian Gifts
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Asda Blyth Superstore
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Essential places to dine
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The Fish Shack
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Sohe Restaurant
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Fat Hippo Jesmond
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Jam Jar
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Florence Jesmond
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Branches Restaurant
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Dosa Kitchen
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
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Sanderson Arcade
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Sports Direct
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Asda Cramlington Superstore
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Boyes
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Tesco Express
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Saltrock Blyth
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KEYring
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
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For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Historic
- Scenic
- Tranquil
- Lively
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Vintage Styles
- Rustic Designs
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Protected Area
- Public-Transport Accessible
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
- Day Trip
- Weekend Getaway
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Pet Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
