Exploring Durham City: A Morning of Aerial Adventures

With a couple of free hours this morning, I decided it was finally time to venture just a few miles down the road to Durham City and capture some of its incredible historic locations. The sun was shining, and the timing was perfect for some drone exploration. Here’s how the morning unfolded, with a bit of history at each spot I visited.

The Story at Oswald’s Mount: Where Old Meets New

First up was The Story at Oswald’s Mount, Durham’s latest attraction, which opened recently as part of the city's expanding cultural offerings. Set atop a hill with panoramic views of Durham City, Oswald’s Mount is rich with history. Historically, it was linked to St Oswald’s Church nearby, and the site has seen various uses over the centuries. Now, it's a new attraction that brings together the old and new, showcasing the heritage of Durham in a contemporary setting.

I captured some stunning drone photos and aerial video here, with the views extending across the city. The juxtaposition of ancient surroundings with modern design makes this a unique spot that represents Durham’s blend of history and progression.

Vane Tempest Hall: A Hidden Gem with a Fascinating Past

Next, I stopped by Vane Tempest Hall, a striking old building with a long history tied to the coal mining heritage of County Durham. Built in the early 19th century, the hall was originally home to the influential Vane-Tempest family, who played a key role in the development of the region’s mining industry. Over the years, the building has served various purposes and is now used as a community space.

The hall’s distinctive architecture looked great from above, and I captured some fantastic aerial photos and drone video. The weather was perfect for highlighting the building’s historic character, with clear skies enhancing the contrast of its stonework against the surrounding area.

Crook Hall: Beauty by the Durham Waterside

Next, I made my way to Crook Hall, a Grade I listed medieval manor house that sits by the waterside in Durham. Dating back to the 13th century, Crook Hall is one of Durham’s hidden treasures, combining medieval architecture with beautifully tended gardens. It’s known for its tranquil surroundings and historic charm, offering a peaceful retreat just a short distance from the bustling city centre.

I captured some lovely drone video and aerial photos, which show the hall’s picturesque setting beside the River Wear. The gardens, framed by the historic architecture, looked stunning from above, making it easy to see why this is one of Durham’s most beloved spots.

Durham Obelisk: A Monument of Mystery

Heading just outside the city, I stopped at the Durham Obelisk. This mysterious monument, which sits quietly on the outskirts of Durham, dates back to the 18th century. Though its exact purpose is unclear, it is believed to have been erected to commemorate a significant local event or individual, making it a curious and lesser-known part of Durham’s landscape.

The obelisk is in a relatively remote area, so it was perfect for drone photography. The aerial photos and drone videocaptured its tall, elegant form, standing alone in the surrounding greenery. From above, it makes for a striking contrast to the rolling countryside around it.

The Battery and Ampitheatre at Wharton Park: Hidden Features

I then moved on to Wharton Park, a much-loved green space in Durham that offers spectacular views of the city. The park itself has an interesting history, having been gifted to the city in 1858 by William Lloyd Wharton, and it remains a popular spot for locals and visitors alike. Two notable features of the park are The Battery, a high point that once housed cannons, and the Amphitheatre, an open-air theatre used for various events.

I captured some fantastic aerial photos of both The Battery and the Amphitheatre, with the drone highlighting the layout and beauty of these hidden gems within the park. The elevated position of The Battery offers one of the best viewpoints of Durham City, which made for some impressive shots.

Durham Viaduct: An Engineering Marvel

The next stop was Durham Viaduct, a striking railway viaduct that has been a key part of the city’s infrastructure since its completion in 1857. The viaduct, officially known as the Framwellgate Viaduct, was built to carry the East Coast Main Line across the River Wear. Its towering stone arches are a marvel of Victorian engineering, and it has become a defining feature of the Durham skyline.

I captured both drone video and aerial photos of this magnificent structure. The drone’s perspective really highlighted the viaduct’s height and the way it spans the River Wear, with views stretching out across Durham City.

Views of Durham: Capturing the Cathedral in All Its Glory

No trip to Durham would be complete without capturing Durham Cathedral, one of the most iconic buildings in the UK. Built in 1093, this Norman masterpiece is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and remains a central part of Durham’s identity. Its towering spires dominate the skyline, and its setting, overlooking the River Wear, makes it one of the most picturesque cathedrals in the world.

I managed to capture some truly breathtaking aerial photos of the cathedral and surrounding city. From above, the views of Durham City are spectacular, with the cathedral at the heart of it all, surrounded by medieval streets and the flowing River Wear. It was the perfect way to end the morning’s adventure.

Wrapping Up the Day

This quick trip into Durham City was incredibly rewarding, with each location offering its own piece of history and beauty. From ancient monuments to sweeping views of the city’s most iconic sites, drone photography brought a new perspective to these well-loved locations. I can’t wait to start editing the footage and sharing it all with you over the coming days!

Stay tuned for more!