A Day of Discovery and Drone Adventures: Exploring Teesdale's Hidden Gems

Today’s weather was just perfect for flying—clear skies, little wind, and an itinerary full of incredible spots to explore. From a breathtaking sunrise over Willington to the raw beauty of Teesdale’s waterfalls, here’s how the day unfolded.

Sunrise Above Willington (Towards Spennymoor): A Sky Full of Colour

Before even setting off, I had to send the drone up to capture the stunning sunrise above Willington, looking out towards Spennymoor. The sky was a masterpiece, filled with shades of pinks, oranges, purples, and yellows. The calm morning air made for some fantastic aerial photos, with the drone capturing the vibrant colours stretching across the horizon. There’s something magical about watching the world wake up from above, and today’s sunrise was a perfect start to the day.

Lartington Hall: A Grand Historic Estate

My first stop was Lartington Hall, located just outside Barnard Castle. This Grade II listed* hall has a history dating back to the 17th century, and was owned by the Maire family for over 300 years. It was later remodelled in the 19th century and now serves as a luxury wedding venue. The drone footage really brings out the elegance of the estate, with its beautiful gardens and stunning architecture standing proudly against the backdrop of the Teesdale countryside.

I captured some beautiful aerial photos and drone video, showcasing the grandeur of Lartington Hall. Its rich history and picturesque setting make it a must-see for anyone interested in English country estates.

Balderstone Viaduct: A Piece of Railway History

The Balderstone Viaduct, located near Cotherstone, was the next highlight of the day. Built in the 1860s as part of the Barnard Castle to Middleton-in-Teesdale railway, this viaduct is a marvel of Victorian engineering. Though the railway closed in 1964, the viaduct remains a striking feature in the landscape with its nine-arched stone structure.

I managed to capture some incredible drone photos and aerial video, really showing off the viaduct’s symmetry and the way it stretches across the valley. The view from above adds a whole new appreciation for this piece of railway history.

Farm Building Near Hunderthwaite: A Serendipitous Discovery

While heading toward my next location, I spotted an old farm building just outside Hunderthwaite and had to stop for a closer look. The abandoned building, with a tree growing through its roof, was too interesting to pass by. While I couldn’t find much information on its history, the structure itself made for some great photos.

I captured some fantastic aerial photos and drone video, showing how nature is slowly reclaiming this forgotten building. It’s always a thrill to stumble upon these hidden spots that add a little spontaneity to the day.

Grace Cottage Drift: A Forgotten Mining Relic

One of today’s intriguing finds was Grace Cottage Drift, located near Bail Hill. This site is a remnant of Teesdale’s coal mining history, marked by a towering chimney and the remains of old buildings. Drift mining, which involves cutting into a hillside to access coal seams, was common in the 19th and early 20th centuries, and this chimney likely served as a key part of the mine’s ventilation system.

Though I wasn’t able to get too close due to land restrictions, I captured some striking aerial photos and drone videofrom a distance. The chimney, rising against the backdrop of Teesdale’s rolling hills, makes for an impressive sight, blending the region’s industrial past with its natural beauty. A fascinating hidden gem in the landscape!

High Force Waterfall: Nature’s Power on Full Display

No trip to Teesdale is complete without a stop at the breathtaking High Force Waterfall. The River Tees plunges 21 metres over a sheer cliff of Whin Sill rock, creating one of the most dramatic waterfalls in England. After a bit of a walk to get there, the sight of the waterfall in full flow was well worth the journey.

I captured some truly stunning aerial photos and drone video, showing the waterfall from angles that really capture its power and beauty. The combination of the roaring water and today’s perfect weather made this one of the highlights of the day.

Summerhill Force & Gibson’s Cave: A Hidden Gem

My final stop was Summerhill Force and Gibson’s Cave, tucked away near the Bowlees Visitor Centre. The small but beautiful waterfall, with the rock overhang of Gibson’s Cave behind it, creates a serene setting. Legend has it that Gibson’s Cave was named after a local outlaw who hid there in the 19th century.

Sadly, the area was too enclosed to fly the drone, but I managed to get some great shots with my camera, capturing the peaceful beauty of the waterfall and the surrounding greenery.

Wrapping Up the Day

From the stunning colours of the sunrise over Willington to the industrial mystery of Bail Hill, today was a day packed with variety and discovery. Each location had its own unique story to tell, and I’m excited to start editing the footage and sharing it with you all!

Stay tuned for more adventures!