Do People in the North East of England Feel Closer to Yorkshire or Cumbria?

When we first moved to the UK, many place names and county boundaries were bewildering. Yorkshire and Cumbria are often discussed in relation to the northern regions, but which do people in the North East of England feel closer to? This article explores the regional identity and cultural ties that define the North East, examining the historical and geographical factors that influence this sense of belonging.

Geographical Context and Historical Background

The North East of England is a vast and diverse region, spanning both Yorkshire and Cumbria. Geographically, Yorkshire is located in the north-east, while Cumbria sits in the north-west. Other significant counties in the North East include County Durham and Northumberland. Understanding the region's geography is crucial to grasping the cultural and historical ties that have developed over the years.

Regional Identification and Historical Influences

Historically, the North East was comprised of several shires, merging various counties over time. For instance, the old North Riding of Yorkshire extended as far as the south bank of the Tees, encompassing towns like Middlesbrough, Redcar, and Saltburn. In contrast, Moving west towards the Tyne Valley, places like Alston and Brampton were once part of Cumberland and Westmoreland. This shifting landscape has contributed to a complex sense of regional identity.

Many people from the region, particularly those in Teesside and County Durham, feel a strong connection to Yorkshire. However, those further west, such as in Northumberland, may lean more towards Cumbria due to their historical ties. The area is vast and varied, with different towns and cities having their own distinct identities and connections to historical counties.

Personal Perspectives and Ties to Newcastle and Sunderland

Take, for example, Middlesbrough, which is south of the Tees and has traditionally been classified as Yorkshire. Many residents here feel a closer connection to Yorkshire. Similarly, other cities like Newcastle-upon-Tyne and Sunderland in Northumberland have significant ties to both Yorkshire and Cumbria, depending on individual history and personal experiences.

The "northeast" region, while substantial, is not monolithic. It covers a wide area, not just as old historical Yorkshire but also including other important regions. This diversity adds complexity to any straightforward classification of the area.

Modern Transportation and Cultural Boundaries

While geography plays a significant role, modern transportation has mitigated some of the historical obstacles. Railways and motorways have made travel between the North East's various regions easier, reducing the inconvenience posed by earlier divides. However, these modern transport links do not wholly erase the cultural and historical distinctions between Yorkshire and Cumbria.

The Pennines, forming a natural barrier between north-east and north-west England, have historically presented a challenge in terms of communication and transportation. Even today, while these issues are less severe, they still play a part in shaping the regional identity of the area.

Regrettably, Cumbria was a significantly larger region until relatively recently, encompassing Cumberland, Westmorland, and Furness. This historical context further complicates the modern perception of the region's boundaries and identity.

Conclusion

There is no one single answer to the question of whether people in the North East of England feel closer to Yorkshire or Cumbria. The region's diverse composition and complex historical ties have created a rich tapestry of regional identities. Whether one identifies more strongly with Yorkshire, Cumbria, or a combination of both depends on individual heritage, geographic proximity, and personal experiences.