Local History

The name Stanwix is very old and is thought to derive from the fact that, even before the Romans came, the houses here were stone built, in contrast to the “dub” or wattle and daub structures more usually found in the area.

The Parish’s Anglo-Saxon and Norse heritage is evidenced by the place names ending in the Saxon -'ton, or the Norse – 'by; both indicating a farm or small settlement.

There are many important archaeological sites in the Parish. The most significant being Hadrian’s Wall and the Vallum which enter the Parish near Wall Head, in the east, and leave it near Tarraby, in the west.

The wall and its associated features comprise the Hadrian’s Wall World Heritage Site. Recently a long distance footpath, along the route of the wall, was constructed generating a noticeable increase in the number of walkers, and cyclists, who visit the Parish.

In the 13th Century King Edward 1st of England passed through the area several times, on his way to and from Scotland, staying at Linstock Castle whilst Parliaments were held in Carlisle

For several hundred years the "The Debatable Lands" of the border witnessed much vicious and lawless activity by the Border Reivers, who’s rustling, pillaging and murdering became legendary. For much of that time there was little, if any, law imposed in the rural areas to the north of Carlisle.

Bonnie Prince Charlie stopped here on his way south during his 1745 attempt to regain the British throne for the Stuarts.

Stanwix Rural Parish is comprised of several distinct communities, varying from villages to hamlets and small settlements. The older buildings within these communities are mainly of red sandstone or red brick construction and are often of typical North Cumbrian vernacular design. Many of the older buildings may be found to contain substantial quantities of 'recycled' Roman Wall.

Did You Know?

King Edward 1st of England (Longshanks), stayed at Linstock Castle because it was thought safer than Carlisle Castle!