Northumbria came under English control with William the Conquerer some 140ish years ago during a campaign known as the Harrowing of the North. William was ruthless; the death toll is believed to be 150,000, with substantial social, cultural, and economic damage to Scotland. Even his supporters were horrified by the cruelty of the attack. As you might imagine, some Scots are still pretty cranky about it, and the ongoing English hostilities since then. Raids from the North have been known to happen with some regularity.
Ushaw Moor
Ushaw Moor is a small township in northern England. It is located in Durham county, formerly known as the Northumbrian Territory, and falls under control of King John's appointed Earl. The Earl is Lord Edward Robert De Ferrars. Within the township is the Wolf's Wood Tavern, lodgings for the King's Trust, a merchant commons, a jailhouse, and a church that still sees occasional use since the Interdict. On the outskirts is farmland, an abandoned mill, and a silver mine.
This is the setting and town that Shadow Accord takes place in each event.
Esh Winning
Esh Winning is a small settlement situated in the Deerness Valley. It is a 15 minute walk from Ushaw Moor, and about an hour and a half west of Durham. The most notable feature of this village is the large church that resides there, the Lion's Gate Chantry.
Durham
The city of Durham is the ruling city of Durham county, about an hour walk away from Ushaw Moor. It is the largest city in the area, and is home to Earl De Ferrars. The city found spiritual prominence because it was the final resting place of Saint Cuthbert and Saint Bede the Venerable in it's large Cathedral. The City also has a sizable 100 year old Norman castle. The city plays an important position of defense of England against the Scots.
Beyond..
York
York is a walled city, sited at the confluence of the rivers Ouse and Foss. It is considered the chief city of Northern England at this time and it served as the Capital of the Anglican Kingdom of Northumbria. York is a major wool trading center and the ecclesiastical capital of the northern province of England.
London
London is the capital of England. It is seat of King John and his court. It is on the opposite side of the Island, some 85 leagues (250 miles) away from Durham.
Notes and Citations
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Northumbria
http://atheism.about.com/library/FAQs/christian/blxtn_crus_knights.htm