A Day of Mining History: Capturing the Heart of the Northeast’s Industrial Past

Today was one of those days that remind me why I love doing this. The weather was perfect, the locations were awe-inspiring, and the drone seemed to capture every angle exactly as I’d hoped. The focus today was all about mines and mining heritage, and I explored some of the most historically significant sites in the region. From ancient lead mines to smelt mills, each place was full of stories and character, making it one of the best days I’ve ever had out in the field.

Here’s a look at the incredible locations I visited:

Jeffreys Rake, Hunstanworth

I started the day by returning to Jeffreys Rake, a site I briefly visited yesterday. Yesterday's quick drone shot from a distance didn’t quite do it justice, so today, I decided to really dig in. This old lead mining site is full of character, with two prominent chimneys that still stand tall, marking the remnants of the industrial activity that once took place here. The area is rich in mining history, and the surrounding landscape is breathtakingly rugged. I captured some fantastic drone footage that showcases both the industrial remains and the natural beauty of the area. It’s hard to believe this was once a bustling hub of activity.

Rookhope Arch

Next, I made my way to Rookhope Arch, the last standing piece of the Lintzgarth Smelt Mill. Built in the mid-18th century, this arch is a striking reminder of the lead smelting process that dominated the region's economy for centuries. The mill would have processed lead ore brought down from the surrounding hills, and the arch now stands alone in a landscape that has reclaimed much of the industrial scars. I captured some atmospheric drone footage, as well as camera shots that show how the arch fits into the now-quiet environment. The contrast between the historical structure and the peaceful surroundings really stood out to me today.

Groverake Mine

Groverake Mine was one of the highlights of the day. This site was one of the last major lead and fluorspar mines to close in the UK, operating until the late 20th century. It has a deep history that stretches back hundreds of years. The remains of the mine are still very much intact, with old buildings and mining equipment scattered around the site. It feels as if time has stood still here, and you can almost imagine the workers going about their day-to-day operations. The drone shots I captured really highlight the scale and importance of this place in mining history. I got some great footage of the old headgear and the surrounding area, making this one of the standout locations.

Thorngreen Limekilns

Thorngreen Limekilns was an unexpected gem I found on my way to Nenthead. These kilns were used in the process of turning limestone into quicklime, which was an essential component in construction and agriculture. While not as grand or well-known as some of the other sites I visited, the kilns offer a fascinating glimpse into the region’s industrial past. The site is peaceful and almost forgotten, but it still tells the story of the region’s reliance on these industries. I managed to capture both drone and camera shots, and the footage from above gives a unique perspective on how these kilns were built into the landscape.

Nenthead Mines

Nenthead Mines is an incredible place, and it’s clear that the volunteers who help maintain it have done a fantastic job. This site was once one of the most important lead and zinc mining complexes in the UK, dating back to the 1700s. The network of mines, smelt mills, and worker cottages tell the story of a once-thriving community that revolved around the extraction of minerals from deep underground. Today, the site is beautifully preserved, and I was able to capture drone footage that showcases its vast scale. The rolling hills surrounding the mine added a stunning backdrop to the shots, and I can’t wait to edit the footage.

Killhope Lead Mining Museum

Though Killhope Lead Mines was closed, it wasn’t a problem thanks to my drone. Killhope is one of the best-preserved lead mining sites in the UK, and its iconic waterwheel is a real highlight. The mine dates back to the 19th century and played a key role in the region’s lead industry. I managed to get some great drone footage that captures the scale of the waterwheel and surrounding buildings. Even from a distance, the site is impressive, and I can’t wait to pull together the footage to tell the full story of this remarkable place.

It’s been an amazing day full of history, beautiful landscapes, and some truly unforgettable captures. Each location offered something unique, and the chance to see these sites from the air gave me a whole new perspective on their historical significance. I’m looking forward to digging into all the footage and photos I've collected.