From History to Heartbreak: Capturing Durham’s Stories from Above

Today’s freezing temperatures didn’t stop me from getting out and exploring some fascinating locations with the DJI Mini 4 Pro and my Neo drone, along with the trusty pocket camera for some ground-level adventures. From historic buildings to sites of recent tragedy, it was a day packed with unique captures and poignant moments.

Eden Arms Hotel: Revisiting a Controversial Site

The Eden Arms Hotel, a former country house turned hotel near Rushyford, has been a subject of local discussion in recent years. Once a thriving establishment, it now stands at the centre of various rumours and speculation. After my last post about the site sparked debate, I decided to return for a deeper exploration.

With the Neo drone following me, I captured some ground-level footage and then switched to the DJI Mini 4 Pro to take aerial shots, showing the building and its grounds from above. These perspectives aim to bring clarity to the current state of the site, with its empty, quiet facade contrasting the lively discourse it often inspires.

Windlestone Hall: A Grand Yet Troubled Past

The stunning Windlestone Hall, a Grade II* listed building, was once the ancestral home of Anthony Eden, the former British Prime Minister. Over the years, the hall has seen various uses, including as a school and a care home. Recently purchased by a charitable trust, but ownership and it's future remain unclear.

With the leaves cleared from surrounding trees, the hall stood proudly for aerial shots. Using the DJI Mini 4 Pro, I captured the hall’s Georgian architecture and sprawling grounds, which looked even more dramatic against the wintry backdrop. The drone’s elevated perspective revealed its grandeur, as well as the challenges it faces in restoration.

South Hetton Scout Hut Fire: Capturing a Sad Scene

Yesterday’s tragic fire at the South Hetton Scout Hut has left the community reeling. The once-vibrant hub for local youth activities now stands charred and desolate. I visited the site to document its current state and pay tribute to what it represented for the community.

With the Neo drone capturing my ground-level exploration, I took a closer look at the damage, while the DJI Mini 4 Pro provided overhead views of the destruction. These shots aim to preserve the memory of the site and highlight the community’s loss.

Steetley Pier: A Return to Coastal Beauty

The iconic Steetley Pier in Hartlepool, a remnant of the town’s industrial heritage, continues to be a favourite of mine. Returning to this stunning location, I combined a ground-level explore with aerial captures to bring out its haunting beauty.

The Neo drone followed me as I walked along the beach, capturing the pier’s skeletal structure from below. Switching to the DJI Mini 4 Pro, I captured sweeping aerial footage, showcasing the pier’s full expanse against the misty coastline. This return visit offered fresh perspectives on a timeless landmark.

St Hilda’s Church: Capturing Nighttime Majesty

St Hilda’s Church, a gem of Hartlepool’s Headland, is one of my favourite locations for aerial photography. Dating back to the 12th century, this historic church is a beacon of history and beauty, particularly when lit up at night.

Using the DJI Mini 4 Pro, I captured the church’s striking silhouette against the evening sky. The aerial shots highlighted the interplay of light and shadow, giving this historic site an almost ethereal quality.

Hartlepool Port: Reflections at Night

While at the Headland, I couldn’t resist stopping at Hartlepool Port to capture the stunning reflections on the water. The calm conditions and soft lighting created a magical scene, with the docked IWS Skywalker vessel adding a touch of modernity to the timeless setting.

The drone’s overhead views emphasised the symmetry of the reflections, while closer shots captured the intricate details of the illuminated boat. These images beautifully showcase the charm of Hartlepool’s bustling port at night.

Wrapping Up the Day

Today was a day of contrasts—historic grandeur, industrial beauty, and moments of loss—all captured through the lens of both drones and ground-level exploration. Despite the cold, each location offered its own story, making the day a truly rewarding one. Stay tuned for the photos and videos—I can’t wait to share them with you!