Willimoteswyke

1607

Aug 20    Presentment: Mathew Mylburne f. of Crookebanck, yeoman; at Crookebanck, broke in and stole one "gymmer" (oram) worth 4s., from William Rydley of Willmanswycke, esquire. [NRO QSI/1, f73v (388)]

1913 "Northumberland Yesterday and To-day" by Jean F. Terry, L.L.A. (St. Andrews)

On the opposite side of the South Tyne from Henshaw, Willimoteswick Castle stands on the level plains which are as characteristic of the south bank of the river as are the steep slopes of the north bank. One of the towers of this old Castle yet remains, and forms part of the more modern farm-house which stands there. Willimoteswick was long in the possession of the Ridleys, and it is generally accepted as having been the birthplace of Bishop Ridley, though Unthank Hall, nearer to Haltwhistle, and also a home of that family, disputes the honour. The Bishop, who suffered death at the stake in the troublous times of Queen Mary, in touching letters bids farewell to his Cousin at Willimoteswick and his sister and her children at Unthank.

1914 Kelly's Directory of Northumberland

"Willimoteswyke is a hamlet, owned by Sir Hugh D. Blackett bart. Here are extensive remains of the ancient castle, formerly the seat of the Ridley family, part of which is at present occupied as farm buildings. Nicholas Ridley D.D. master of Pembroke College, Camb. in 1550, and successively Bishop of Rochester (1547-50) and London (1550-3), is said to have been born here or at Unthank, about 1500; he was martyred at Oxford, with Cranmer and Latimer, 16th October, 1555."

"Letters through Bardon Mill, which is also the nearest money order & telegraph office."