Exploring Local Gems in County Durham: A Day of Capturing Unique Views

Today was a different pace from my usual adventures. Rather than chasing down iconic landmarks or traveling to distant locations, I stayed close to home and explored some lesser-known spots around County Durham. These sites may not be on many people’s radars, but they hold a certain charm, especially when seen from above. With the drone ready and skies clear, I set out to see what I could capture. Here's a look at the day’s finds:

Deer House Near Binchester: A Quaint Field Find

This morning, while out for a run near Binchester, I came across what looked like a small deer house in the middle of a field. While not as ancient as some of the Roman remains nearby—like Binchester Roman Fort—this structure intrigued me enough to warrant a closer look after my run. Deer houses, once built to shelter deer kept on estates, are often simple stone structures, but they add character to the countryside.

Once I returned with the drone, I captured aerial photos and drone video of the deer house set against the green fields. From above, the small building stood out in the open landscape, framed by the rolling hills and autumn foliage. The drone’s perspective provided a view of its structure and placement within the landscape that you’d miss from the ground—a simple structure, but one that brings a sense of history to the field.

Auckland Way Bridge Near Bishop Auckland Golf Club: Capturing a Classic Walkway

Next up was Auckland Way Bridge, a stone bridge situated along the Auckland Way walking route, close to Bishop Auckland Golf Club. Originally part of the old railway infrastructure, the Auckland Way has since been transformed into a scenic walking and cycling path. The bridge itself is a reminder of the area’s industrial past and offers a charming spot for walkers on the route.

With the drone, I captured aerial photos and drone video that show the bridge in its context along the former railway line, surrounded by trees displaying autumn colours. From above, the bridge becomes a picturesque part of the trail, giving a sense of connection between past and present. The drone shots highlighted the bridge’s stonework, its gentle arc over the path, and its place within this natural setting—a peaceful scene that’s easy to overlook from the ground.

Langley Moor Viaduct Over the River Deerness: A Lesser-Known Railway Landmark

Driving a little further, I arrived at Langley Moor Viaduct over the River Deerness. While not as grand as some of the other viaducts in the North East, this viaduct plays an important role in the region's railway network, still carrying trains along the East Coast Main Line. Built in the late 19th century, the viaduct spans the river with a series of sturdy stone brick supports and remains an example of Victorian engineering still in use today.

The aerial photos and drone video offered a great perspective on the viaduct’s structure and function. From above, I could capture the arches and the flow of the river beneath, showcasing the viaduct’s architectural form. Watching trains pass over from a bird’s-eye view was a reminder of the viaduct’s continued importance, connecting past infrastructure with modern rail travel.

Spennymoor Town Hall: Local Heritage in the Heart of Town

The final stop of the day was Spennymoor Town Hall, a charming building that serves as a focal point for the town. Built in the early 20th century, this building has become a significant part of Spennymoor’s identity. With its distinctive stone façade, clock tower, and decorative features, the town hall reflects the architectural style of the period and stands as a symbol of local governance and community.

Using the drone, I was able to capture aerial photos and drone video of the town hall that highlight its central location within Spennymoor. From above, the building’s clock tower and stone details stand out, framed by the surrounding townscape. The drone’s perspective provided a unique view of this familiar building, showcasing its architectural details and its role as a landmark for locals.

Wrapping Up the Day

Today was a reminder that even a short local trip can reveal interesting and picturesque spots. From quaint structures in fields to bridges and railway viaducts, each location had its own character and history, brought to life by the drone’s perspective. It’s easy to overlook these places in day-to-day life, but seeing them from above adds a new dimension. Looking forward to sharing these captures with you all!