Yr Hen Ogledd was the name for the northernmost parts of England (modern day Cumbria) and the southernmost parts of modern day Scotland in the days of Brythonic Britain.
This region spoke the now extinct language of Cumbric, which was either related to or a direct relative of “Old Welsh” (which, of course, is an ancestral language of present-Welsh).
In many ways, Yr Hen Ogledd gave way for modern Cymru, as many of the Welsh Kingdoms, such as Gwynedd with Cunedda, were founded by people hailing from the region.
If you have ever wondered why “Cumbria” is a similar sounding word to “Cymru”, it is because our origins are very similar and are both rooted in the Brythonic Kingdoms.
More from Welsh Histories
Welsh Histories is a Welsh history celebrating platform which looks to promote all aspects of Welsh history. Though we focus predominantly on native Welsh history, we do also share the non-native aspects from time to time. You can follow us on Facebook; Instagram or Twitter for more. A reader? We also have our very own Welsh Histories Shop where we sell our Welsh Histories Magazine. Diolch yn fawr iawn and keep enjoying Welsh Histories.
DIGITAL Welsh Histories Magazine – September 2025
Niklas is the founder, owner, manager, editor, writer, video creator, voice over artist, and so forth, of Welsh Histories. He is passionate about the preservation of Welsh culture; the rejuvenation of the Welsh language and the promotion of Welsh history. Niklas currently resides in Pune, Maharashtra, with his beloved wife.

