Why is Durham and Northumberland not in the doomsday book?

Answer 1

Durham and Northumberland were not included in the Domesday Book primarily because they were under the jurisdiction of the Bishop of Durham, who had significant autonomy and did not report to the Crown in the same manner as other regions. Additionally, these areas were relatively less populated and less economically developed compared to the more densely populated regions of southern England. The focus of the Domesday survey was largely on assessing taxes and resources in areas directly under royal control.

Answer 2

Durham and Northumberland were not included in the Domesday Book primarily because they were part of the northern frontier of England, which was less settled and more volatile during the time of the survey in 1086. The region had a different administrative structure and was often subject to conflicts with Scotland, making it challenging to conduct a comprehensive assessment. Additionally, much of the land was owned by the church or local nobility, which may have complicated the data collection process for the Domesday Book.