Ormside in Cumbria, England
Nestled in the scenic Eden Valley of Cumbria, Ormside is a small civil parish comprising the village of Great Ormside and the hamlet of Little Ormside. With a population of under 200, this charming area is rich in history, from its medieval church to the iconic Ormside Viaduct, and even an Anglo-Saxon treasure: the Ormside Bowl, now preserved in the York Museum.
A Name with Viking Heritage
The name Ormside has its roots in the Old Norse language, reflecting the region’s Viking past. It combines the personal name “Orm” or “Ormr”, meaning “serpent” or “snake,” with the Old English element “-side”, referring to a hillside, riverbank, or settlement. Put together, Ormside essentially means “Orm’s settlement” or “Orm’s hill”.
This naming convention was common in Norse-settled areas of northern England. Similar place names, like Ormskirk (“Orm’s church”) and Ormsby (“Orm’s farm”), highlight how personal names were used to mark ownership or association with the land. The Ormside family, recorded in the 13th century, likely derived their surname from the village itself, preserving this connection through the centuries.
History and Highlights
St James’ Church in Great Ormside dates back to the 12th century and features a rare “leper’s squint” in its chancel wall.
Ormside Hall, with its medieval pele tower, hints at the area’s strategic importance in turbulent times.
The Ormside Viaduct, with its ten arches, is a striking example of Victorian railway engineering.
Ormside Mill serves as an activity and residential centre for groups exploring the Eden Valley.
The nearby Rutter Force waterfall adds a touch of natural beauty to the historic landscape.
Visiting Ormside offers more than just scenic views; it provides a glimpse into Cumbria’s Viking heritage, the medieval past, and the enduring legacy of a simple name that has survived for over a millennium.