Bishopley Limekilns, Weardale

The Bishopley Limekilns, located in the scenic Weardale valley near Frosterley, are a fascinating reminder of the area's industrial past. Built around 1847 by the Stockton and Darlington Railway Company, these kilns were part of the lime production boom that supplied materials for agriculture, ironworks, and construction. The site consists of two large banks of kilns—one with four and the other with five continuous kilns—used to process limestone brought from nearby quarries by rail.

Through aerial footage and ground-level photography, I captured the grand scale of these historic kilns nestled in the beautiful Weardale landscape. Though production ceased after WWII, two of the kilns were briefly reinstated in the late 1950s and remained in use until 1975. This project showcases the stunning blend of industrial heritage and natural beauty that defines the Bishopley Limekilns and preserves their legacy in Durham's rich historical landscape