A Day of Exploration: Discovering County Durham and Northumberland

Today was an incredible day exploring the historic landscapes of County Durham and Northumberland, packed with surprises and some stunning finds along the way. My main goal was to visit Shildon Engine House, but I discovered several fascinating sites perfect for drone footage and photography. Here's where my journey took me:

Muggleswick Priory Ruins

Located in County Durham, the Muggleswick Priory Ruins are the remnants of a 13th-century monastic grange. This site was used by the monks of Durham Cathedral as a retreat and for farming purposes. Although much of the original structure has decayed, the priory's remote setting adds a sense of timelessness. I captured some great drone shots of the ruins and their peaceful surroundings.

Shildon Engine House, Blanchland

The Shildon Engine House, located near Blanchland in Northumberland, dates back to 1805 and was part of the lead mining industry that thrived in the North Pennines. The engine house was used to pump water out of the mines and stands as one of the few remaining structures of its kind. The structure has been partially excavated, revealing walls and original machinery. I managed to capture both drone footage and camera shots of this iconic industrial relic.

St Andrew’s Church, Bywell

This ancient Anglo-Saxon church, dating back to around 850 AD, is one of the oldest in the region. Its tower was designed as a defensive structure, with thick stone walls typical of early medieval construction. Located on the banks of the River Tyne, the church was a surprise find and offered stunning views both inside and out. I captured some breathtaking aerial shots of the church, highlighting its historic architecture and scenic location.

Bywell Castle

Not far from St Andrew’s, I discovered Bywell Castle, a 15th-century fortress. Built by the Neville family, the castle was part of the region’s defense system. While much of it is in ruins today, the setting by the River Tyne makes for an impressive sight. I captured drone photos of the castle, showcasing the interplay between the medieval ruins and the natural beauty of the surrounding landscape.

Beehive Coke Ovens, Tow Law

These 19th-century coke ovens were used in the coal industry to convert coal into coke for iron production. The ovens, with their distinctive beehive shape, are remnants of Tow Law's industrial past. After passing them many times, I finally stopped to explore and got some fantastic aerial shots of these industrial relics nestled in the landscape.

Crowtrees Colliery Engine House

Hidden within a nature reserve, the Crowtrees Colliery Engine House was part of a 19th-century coal mining operation. The building still stands proudly among the trees, a reminder of the region's coal-mining heritage. I captured some striking drone footage, blending the industrial history with the surrounding nature.

Ferryhill Old Windmill

My final stop in County Durham was the Ferryhill Old Windmill, a 19th-century structure now attached to a private residence. The windmill is no longer operational but remains an intriguing feature of the landscape. The homeowners were kind enough to allow me to take drone photos and camera shots, showcasing the windmill in its current state.

Back to the Editing Table It was a fantastic day, with plenty of historical sites and beautiful landscapes captured through drone photography. Now it’s time to dive into the editing! Tomorrow, I’ll be on the bike in the morning, but I have more photography plans in the afternoon—stay tuned for more adventures!