MEMBERS of the public are being given a rare chance to visit Dilston Castle and Chapel, near Corbridge, next week.
After negotiating a lease with the operators of Dilston College, members of the Northumbrian Jacobite Society are now able to arrange public access to the 15th century fortified tower house and 17th century chapel up to 10 times each year.
The agreement was struck in time for events to mark the 300th anniversary of the first Jacobite Rising, and after four years of the site being under lock and key.
It all went wrong for the historic ruins and a number of community groups which worked to preserve them, when former leaseholders the North Pennines Heritage Trust (NPHT), went into administration in 2011.
Control reverted back to owners Mencap and Allendale Estates, and a fence was erected and the site was closed to the public, despite an extensive restoration programme led by NPHT and funded by Heritage Lottery money.
In May 2014, the site was bought by the Cambian Group, which now operates the college, prompting fresh negotiations over public access.
President of the society, John Nicholls, said: “We are delighted to be able to show local people and visitors from elsewhere this precious historical site once more.”
Those interested in visiting the site should contact John on (01573) 470746.
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