Discovering Hidden Gems: Unearthing History One Footpath at a Time

Do you ever find yourself wondering what's down that mysterious footpath, or what's that intriguing building you can just glimpse on the other side of the field, but never actually go and investigate? Well, that used to be me, too—until I got into photography and drone videography. Now, I find myself hopping over fences and scrambling across farmers' fields (not always with permission, I admit), all in the quest to discover something new and interesting to share with you. OK, I’ll confess—these spots are usually old and steeped in history, and plenty of people already know about them. But many don't, and that’s where DJ Aerial Photography comes in.

Just this week, we’ve been to some incredible hidden spots. Here’s a bit of info on just a few:

Belmont Viaduct: The Hidden Gem of Kepier Woods

Located at the far end of Kepier Woods, the Belmont Viaduct is a magnificent but often overlooked piece of railway history. Built in the 1850s to carry the Leamside Line over the River Wear, the viaduct is a striking structure with 11 arches, standing proudly above the trees. Although the line has long since closed, the viaduct remains a testament to the engineering prowess of the Victorian era. Its location, nestled deep within the woods, makes it a perfect spot for some atmospheric photography, especially with the drone capturing it from above, framed by the dense woodland and the meandering river below.

Kepier Old Brick Kiln: A Glimpse into Industrial History

Just a stone's throw from the old Kepier Hospital, the Kepier Old Brick Kiln is a relic of the area’s industrial past. The brick kiln once played a vital role in producing the materials needed for local construction, including the bricks used in many of Durham’s historic buildings. While the site is now overgrown and somewhat hidden from plain view, it still holds a certain charm, especially for those interested in industrial archaeology. The kiln’s crumbling structure, surrounded by nature slowly reclaiming the land, offers a poignant reminder of the region’s rich industrial heritage.

Thomas Wright Observatory: A Stargazer's Dream in Westerton

Perched atop a hill in Westerton, just off the A688, the Thomas Wright Observatory is a fascinating find for anyone interested in astronomy. Named after the 18th-century astronomer and mathematician Thomas Wright, who was born nearby, this observatory is a modern homage to his contributions to the understanding of the cosmos. The location offers not only stunning views of the surrounding landscape but also a clear, unobstructed view of the night sky. Whether you’re there to capture the sunset or the stars, this spot is a photographer’s dream.

Stanwick Deer House: A Hidden Architectural Gem

Across a field from Stanwick St John’s Church lies the Stanwick Deer House, a hexagonal stone building that dates back to 1842. Originally built as a shelter for deer within the Stanwick Park estate, this quaint structure is now a curious relic of the past. Its unique design and isolated location give it a somewhat mystical quality, making it a fantastic subject for both ground-level and aerial photography. The deer house also forms part of the broader Stanwick Fortifications, which date back to the Iron Age, adding even more historical intrigue to the site.

Hownsgill Caves: A Hidden Industrial Retreat

Built into the hillside beneath the Hownsgill Viaduct, the Hownsgill Caves are a lesser-known but fascinating aspect of the area’s industrial history. These man-made caves were carved out during the construction of the viaduct in the mid-19th century, serving as temporary shelters and storage spaces for the workers. Over time, the caves have become somewhat hidden by the natural landscape, but they remain an intriguing reminder of the human effort involved in creating the viaduct. Exploring these caves offers a unique perspective on the history of the site and provides some great opportunities for creative photography.

Leasingthorne Colliery Tower: A Monument to the Mining Era

The Leasingthorne Colliery Tower is a prominent reminder of County Durham’s rich coal mining heritage. Located near Bishop Auckland, the tower was part of the Leasingthorne Colliery, which operated from the late 19th century until its closure in the mid-20th century. The tower, originally a water tower and reservoir, stands tall against the landscape, a solitary figure marking the site of what was once a bustling mining community.

Though the colliery is long gone, the tower remains, offering a glimpse into the area’s industrial past. The structure is surrounded by fields that have gradually returned to nature, but the tower itself is a stark and enduring symbol of the region’s history. It’s a great spot for photography, especially with the contrasting views of the industrial relic against the backdrop of the countryside.

These are just a few of the hidden gems we’ve stumbled upon in our travels this week. I hope you find them as interesting as we do. We’ll keep searching for more, and who knows what other secrets we’ll uncover next. Keep following along with DJ Aerial Photography—we’ve got plenty more discoveries to share!