07/09/2026
🏛️✨ HERITAGE OPEN DAYS 2026 ✨🏛️
We are proud to be part of Heritage Open Days 2026, 11th - 20th September, celebrating the fascinating history and heritage of our local community here at Bellingham Heritage Centre.
While large museums and stately homes often tell the stories of royalty, aristocrats and the great events of history, we believe that the everyday lives of ordinary people are just as important. ❤️
Come and discover the working lives of people who helped shape Bellingham and rural Northumberland
Every Name has a Story
Major J. S. Allen, M.C.
The son of John and Caroline Allen of Castle Hill, Redesmouth Road, Bellingham, and the husband of Grizel Hamilton Allen of Bellingham, Northumberland.
Major J. S. Allen was killed on 11 April 1918, during the First World War. He had enjoyed a remarkable career, achieving distinction from an early age.
He began his education at the village school, where he won a scholarship that enabled him to continue his studies. He subsequently gained a place at the University of Cambridge, where he achieved a brilliant degree.
At the outbreak of the First World War, Major Allen joined the armed forces and served throughout the conflict, rising rapidly through the ranks to become a Major. He was described as possessing exceptional intelligence and a natural ability to command and inspire the men under his leadership.
His courage was recognised with the award of the Military Cross.
During the fighting on 5 and 7 July 1916, although twice wounded, Allen refused to leave his men and remained in command. Through his resourcefulness, determination and tenacity, he succeeded in holding a position at a critical moment.
His death on 11 April 1918 brought to an end the life of a highly accomplished and courageous officer whose achievements had begun with a scholarship at his local village school and led to Cambridge, military distinction and the rank of Major.
🌿 The Heritage Centre is special place because it tells both stories: the romantic and turbulent past of the Border Reivers, alongside the real, everyday lives of the local people who came afterwards.
Come and explore the objects, photographs and stories that bring these lives back to life.
🚂 HERITAGE CENTRE BELLINGHAM
🕙 Open daily, 10am–4pm
Until the end of October — then weekends only until Christmas
🎟️ FREE ENTRY – DONATIONS WELCOME
🚗 FREE PARKING
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Come and discover the people, places and stories that make Bellingham and the surrounding area so special. ❤️
